"One of two previous winners at the top of the weights, he backed up his 2024 success by pressing Nick Rockett all the way to the Elbow 12 months ago before finally crying enough. He had shown precious few hints of his National-winning form in two runs prior to that exceptional performance under top weight and has more to recommend him this year."
"The strict rules on National eligibility these days meant that even last year's winner had to run in a chase this season to qualify for his attempt at a repeat success, and he duly booked his place in the field by finishing around seven lengths behind Gerri Colombe at Down Royal last month."
"BANBRIDGE has three Grade One wins over fences to his name including the King George VI Chase at Kempton, and he was a flared nostril away from making it four in the same race this season. However, he was a long way below that form in the Ryanair Chase at the Cheltenham festival."
Previous winners at Aintree face challenges due to strict eligibility rules and recent performances. One contender finished second in a Grade One and fifth in the Irish Gold Cup, showing potential. Another previous winner qualified by finishing behind a rival but has concerns about form after a long absence. Banbridge has three Grade One wins but struggled recently and is unproven at longer distances. Overall, Aintree form and aptitude are crucial for success despite handicapping challenges.
Read at www.theguardian.com
Unable to calculate read time
Collection
[
|
...
]