Grand National pinstickers’ guide to runners
Grand National Pinstickers’ Guide to Runners
Saturday’s Grand National at Aintree will feature 34 contenders, with crucial insights into their performances, trainers, jockeys, and form. The event offers a mix of seasoned veterans and rising stars, but three entries have been withdrawn: Number two (Nick Rockett), number seven (Spillane’s Tower), and number 35 (Pied Piper).
Key Details to Know
Focus on racecard specifics such as weight carried, age, and recent form. For example, 11st 12lb denotes the heaviest burden, while a 10-year-old’s stamina and adaptability to varied ground conditions will be pivotal. Form codes like F (fell), P (pulled up), U (unseated rider), and S (slipped up) provide quick reference to their track record.
Best Outsider: Quai de Bourbon
This season’s standout performer, Quai de Bourbon, has proven itself with consistent excellence. Trainer Joseph O’Brien and jockey Sean Bowen have guided the horse to multiple victories, including the Welsh Grand National and Denman Chase. Its form, listed as 1P11P, reflects resilience on challenging terrain, though doubts remain about its ability to maintain pace over longer distances.
“Firmly established as one of the stars of the 2025-26 season with fabulous victories in the Welsh Grand National at Chepstow and the Denman Chase at Newbury,”
commented John. However, the horse’s performance in the Cheltenham Gold Cup last month highlighted its potential on softer surfaces, which could bode well for its chances in the Grand National.
Best Outsider: Spanish Harlem
Spanish Harlem, trained by Henry de Bromhead and ridden by Darragh O’Keeffe, has shown promise with a Grade One win in a smaller race in 2023. Despite lacking a top-level victory over fences, its recent form (4-3056) suggests it could challenge rivals like Fact To File and Spillane’s Tower. John noted, “Judged on what he has produced in the past 12 months, that is another matter entirely,”
but its potential on softer ground remains a key factor.
Top Contenders
Panic Attack, trained by Willie Mullins and ridden by Paul Townend, returns as a strong favorite. The horse’s form (82-925) indicates it performed well in 2024 and finished closely behind stablemate Nick Rockett last year. A 11st 12lb weight may slightly hinder its progress, but its history at Aintree and recent form suggest a solid opportunity for success.
“Winner in 2024 before running equally well to finish second to stablemate Nick Rockett last year on faster ground.”
I Am Maximus, another Mullins-trained contender, aims for its second Grand National triumph. With a form of 7-4423 and a weight of 11st 11lb, the horse has demonstrated strong performances, though its stamina over extended trips may be a concern. John highlighted, “An excellent effort by a horse who has always had a touch of class,”
but its consistency will be tested in the demanding Aintree course.
Grangeclare West, the third entry, has faced challenges this season. Despite a 11st 12lb load and a form of 5-8481, its performance at the last fence last year raised questions. However, its recent form (21246) and trainer Gordon Elliott’s history of success in the race offer hope for a competitive run.
Other Notable Entries
Grangleclare West, the Irish Grand National trial winner, is expected to return with renewed focus. Its form (3-P321) shows improvement after a long break, and its previous win in the Betfred Bowl at Aintree could give it an edge in the 2026 race. Meanwhile, the underdog appeal of Spanish Harlem and Quai de Bourbon adds intrigue to the event.
As the race approaches, statistical analysis may play a role in identifying the likely victor, but the unpredictable nature of the Grand National ensures that form and fortune will both be decisive factors.
