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The snow that fell earlier in the week has now disappeared and all roads lead to Aintree.

Thursday saw all horses and riders return in one piece which is always good news.  There were 4 Gr1 races on the 7 race card and as usual there were a few upsets.

The Manifesto Novices' Chase saw the Skeltons win with Protektorat who was sent out at 17/2 with The Shunter next on 7/2 and Hitman third on 100/30.

The 4yo Juvenile Hurdle went to the 10/11 favourite Monmiral in the hands of Harry Cobden, the first of a running double.  Adagio was second on 13/8 and Fiveandtwenty third on 12/1/

The Bowl Chase again went to the favourite Clan des Obeaux again in the hands of Harry Cobden with Clondaw Castle second on 13/2 and Native River third on 4/1.

The Aintree Hurdle provided the biggest upsets with Abracadabras winning on 5/1 followed by Buzz 22/1 and Millers Bank 80/1.

Friday's card features the Top Novices' Hurdle Gr1 with 10 starters.  Dusart was impressive winning on debut at Newbury but to have him favourite at his second start may be a bit of an ask so 2/1 is not value and we prefer Ajero, who has won his last 4 and is on 7/1.  In between in the market is Third Time Lucki for the Skeltons.

The Mildmay Novices Chase Gr 1 sees Chantry House on 6/4 following on his win in the Marsh at Cheltenham.  Espoir de Ramay and the consistent Fiddlerontheroof are on 11/2.

The Marsh Chase has 8 starters led by Fakir d'Oudairies on 11/4 with Mark Walsh riding for Joseph O'Brien.  We prefer our old friend Politologue who won this in 2018 and has had a few wins since then and is on 3/1.  Dashel Drasher and Master Tommytucker are on 11/2.

The going is expected to be good to soft and the Grand National Course will have a bit of water on it on Friday night.