Grand National today at 17.15 CET

The Grand National with almost a million pounds in prize-money is the most valuable jumps race of the year, also the best-known and most heavily-betted and also the most controversial. This last because of the perceived danger to horses and jockeys, and unfortunately the last two runnings both saw two horses killed, while two more have already died at this year´s meeting. This is terrible news and gives the race - and by extension all N.H. racing- a bad name, with many so-called animal rights organisations calling for the event to be scrapped. We love horses - indeed all animals and birds and trees as well- but certainly do not go along with the extremists. However we must all hope that today´s race goes off without any serious accidents, as another equine death would leave a horrible taste behind.

Family connections have always been prominent here, and especially in Ireland, who mount their usual strong challenge, the Mullins and the Carberrys have been well to the fore. The family best placed to profit today is that of Irish broadcaster, writer, ex-champion amateur jockey and trainer Ted Walsh, who saddles two well fancied runners, Seabass, ridden by his daughter Katie and Colbert Station (Tony McCoy), and in addition has his son Ruby riding another of the favourites in Willie Mullins´ On His Own. We think all three must go on the short list, and there is no doubt that victory for Seabass would be the most popular result; he finished third last year under Katie and a first ever win for a lady jockey would be extremely good news. However he is not so well handicapped this time and last year appeared not to stay the distance after having every chance at ther last fence. Of this trio we think that On His Own has the best chance, and he was been obviously specally trained for this race ever since he rather unluckily fell last year when still going very well.

The best guide to the race is undoubtedly last year´s running, and 14 of today´s runners ran here in 2012, including runner-up Sunnyhillboy (Jonjo O´Neill/ Richie McLernon), beaten a nose, Seabass in third, Cappa Bleu (Evan Williams/ Paul Moloney) in fourth, and Ballabriggs (Donald McCain/ Jason Maguire)- the 2011 winner, in sixth. When the last-named won, he beat Oscar Time (Martin Lynch/ Sam Waley-Cohen) into second, with several more of these behind. The weights of course have shifted quite a bit, and we now consider Chicago Grey (Gordon Elliott/ Paul Carberry) - brought down last year - to be the best handicapped runner.

The main changes from last year are that the jumps have been slightly more forgiving (plastic instead of wood inside), while the start has been moved 90 yards forward and away from the stands, which may be a tiny help to doubtful stayers. But it is still a handicap chase over almost 4 1/2 miles with 40 runners, and luck in running will play the most important part. We hope that one of the above-mentioned runners wins - especially our main fancy On His Own, but there are 40 possible winners and punters must make their own choice.