Aintree and Sandown Preview

1:55 Sandown Henry VIII Novices´ Chase (Grade 1) Cl1 2m
A cracking little Novices’ with Arkle second favourite Al Ferof the horse to look out for. He was an easy winner on his chasing debut and he has the world at his feet if he tidies up his jumping. He is 4/7 with Bet365.

Nicky Henderson saddles Eradicate (7/1 with Boylesports) but having competed against only three horses in two starts his form is very hard to judge.

Of the outsiders, Lancetto (12/1 with Sportingbet) didn’t achieve much as a hurdler but is unbeaten in two chasing starts, this is a big step up in class. 

Lidar looks the best value at 18/1 (Bet365). He finished a close second behind the useful Reynard before streaking away with a Newbury handicap; he’s a horse full of confidence.

Selection: Lidar at 18/1 with Bet365

2:10 Aintree Becher Handicap Chase Cl1 3m2f
Run over the Grand National fences the Becher is often considered a trial for the big race. In recent years Amberleigh House and Silver Birch have achieved the double, but with big gaps between their Becher and National wins. It proves what a lottery these races can sometimes be.

Hello Bud has looked a doubtful stayer in the Grand National, but the reduced trip of the Becher is much more to his liking. He won the race last year and is 10/1 (William Hill) to repeat the trick off a mark only 3lbs higher.

Always Waining (12/1 with Bet365) has a terrific record at Aintree of: 14F161, which includes two consecutive wins in the Topham Chase on the National course. There is a question mark over the trip; he has never won beyond three miles.

Plenty of punters will latch onto Niche Market (11/1 Bet365) having finished fifth in April’s Grand National although a record of 2 wins from 24 starts isn’t encouraging.

Selection: Our tipster has other ideas with West End Rocker 14/1 with Bet365 (read his thoughts here)

3:05 Sandown Tingle Creek Chase (Grade 1) Cl1 2m
The race has become a Paul Nicholls benefit in recent years, he has won the last five Tingle Creeks and the Ditcheat trainer saddles Kauto Stone (3/1 with Bet365) for the race. A grade one winner in France he is following a similar path to his illustrious half brother Kauto Star.

Champion Chase winner Sizing Europe heads the betting at 7/4 (Ladbrokes) but he is a horse who tends to save his best for Cheltenham. Nevertheless, he is a proven Grade One performer and a big danger. If you want insurance then bet with Sportingbet; if Sizing Europe wins, Sportingbet will refund losing bets as a free bet up to £50.

Selection: Kauto Stone at 5/2 with Sportingbet only.