2018 Irish Grand National Preview PT 1

We are just a couple of days away from the kick off of the widely anticipated 2018 Irish Grand National and there is a lot to like about the race this year despite the fact that there will be no British raiders coming up for the big contest at Fairyhouse. We are now down to the final declaration stage and certain horses are being pointed at other races.

There is still plenty to like about the contest and there are definitely some great prices out there on a number of popular contenders.

With so many interesting options for owners right now with Festival season in full swing, you can still expect a big field set to tackle this lengthy Grade A Handicap next week.

The two outright favourites appear to be Pairofbrowneyes and Bellshill - who will be lining up for Willy Mullins yard and looking to build on his previous victory in the Bobbyjo Chase at Fairyhouse. That race is generally viewed as a clear indicator that a jumper can handle a lengthy contest like the Irish National.

He was able to muster up a third place finish in 2017 at Cheltenham in the RSA Chase to the venerable Might Bite - who has come on well and put in an incredible shift this year in his attempt for Cheltenham glory. Expect Bellshill to get the lion’s share of the wagering dollars from the betting public between him and his stablemate rival.