LADBROKES IRISH GRAND NATIONAL PREDICTIONS

There has been plenty of movement in the ante post markets for the 2009 Powers Whiskey Irish Grand National at Fairyhouse this Saturday. Former outright leader Wichita Lineman has drifted back towards the rest of the pack and is now listed at a straight 10/1 at Ladbrokes. Emma Jane is now the slim favourite at 9/1 ahead of a pack of three that also includes Notre Pere and Royal County Star at 10/1. Arbor Supreme and Pomme Tiepy come in at 11/1 while the likes of Casey Jones, Drumconvis, Rare Bob and the impressive Garde Champetre all weigh in at an enticing 15/1. I like Garde Champetre because he's a quality jumps horse over long distances. He demonstrated that in the Cross Country hurdle at Cheltenham last month and looked head-and-shoulders above the pack if you discount L'Ami. I think he's more than a solid bet at 15/1 and will pair up nicely in any forecast betting you've got planned. Also, Air Force One's name has been bandied about for this one and while we don't have direct confirmation as of yet, his price is very solid and may be worth a punt if you have a good feeling about him being prime and fit for this contest. 26/1 is a great price on such a quality horse and I see him as a quality each-way bet as well. If you're looking for a longer-shot runner in this one thanks to the UK Grand National last week, I like Skip Two at 51/1. Point Barrow is also worth a look at 101/1 but question marks remain over his presence in the race. Wichita Lineman is a strong horse and boasts solid, race-winning form at the present time. I can see the odds moving around significantly over the next few days and prices listed today are by no certainty going to be there tomorrow. I'm very confident that we'll have an exciting race here, but I don't see many of the favourites being in front at the finish line. Keep your eyes on Garde Champetre, Air Force One and Skip Two.