Grand National 2018 – Watch out for these returning Aintree heroes who are back for another crack at the National

THE tricky National fences take some getting used to, so it’s wise to follow those coming back for more.

Here are some runners you should keep on side in this year’s big ’un.

2

BLAKLION

Blak is back. Fourth in the race last year after going for home too soon, he has solid claims. Loves these fences but his recent run was disappointing.

THE LAST SAMURI

Kim Bailey’s runner is hoping to make it third time lucky. He was runner-up in 2016 but finished way down the field last year.

UCELLO CONTI

He has also had two shots at the race. He finished sixth in 2016 but unseated last year. Will need to hope his jumping holds out.

GAS LINE BOY
The old Boy is back, and he looks better than ever. Won the Sefton over these fences back in December and ran a decent race at Sandown. Will be raring to go back over these fences and he’s certainly a lively outsider, despite him being a 12-year-old.

Latest in Horse Racing

FIVER FLUTTER

This longshot showed promise at Worcester and can hit the frame again

MONEYBALL

Millionaire pledges to build replica of Ascot racecourse on 800-acre farm

'ED OFF

Chamberlin 'wanted Match Of The Day job' after 'tearful' day at Cheltenham

TROLL CITY

'Absolute rubbish' - punters outraged as City Of Troy crowned Horse Of The Year

PLEASANT COMPANY

No superstar when ninth in the race last year, but the fact he is trained by Willie Mullins means we should never underestimate him. Out of form, or flying under the radar? You decide.

RAZ DE MAREE

Another who is having his third crack at the race, Gavin Cromwell’s 13-year-old (yes you read that right) showed there is plenty of life left in his legs with a tremendous Welsh National victory. He was unlucky when unseating here last year when trying to avoid a faller and if the ground is on the soft side he’s right in the mix.

2

REGAL ENCORE

Eighth in this last year he is well fancied to improve on his finishing position. Warmed up for this with a Listed Chase win at Ascot.

VICENTE

Fell at the first last year, so will be hoping to make it slightly further this year. His jumping has never filled me with confidence and he’ll need to be foot-perfect today.

DOWNLOAD YOUR GRAND NATIONAL SWEEPSTAKE HERE

VIEUX LION ROUGE

This will be his fifth outing over these fences. Won the Becher in 2016 but was beaten miles in this season’s renewal. Sixth and seventh on his two National outings.

SAINT ARE

Grand servant who has placed in two renewals. This will be his fourth run in the race. Would be a popular winner!