(Newswire.net — March 6, 2018) — The Grand National 2018 emerges from the stalls on April 12th at Aintree. The biggest horse race in Europe is destined for another huge year on the track. It was estimated that over £300 million was bet on last year’s race. That number should be shattered in 2018 as punters prepare for the biggest horse racing event on the European calendar.
The 2017 race had 40 starters contest the Grand National. Currently, there are 90 horses in contention for this year’s race. The number will be reduced, but trainers may have limited preparation time due to wintery weather conditions hitting the United Kingdom. Regardless, there are some top horses that are expected to do well at this year’s Grand National.
The Favourites
Blaklion and Total Recall currently top the odds charts. The two horses are considered the strongest of a competitive field. A number of sportsbooks have listed both horses at 10/1; although odds may differ slightly based on your preferred sportsbook. Regardless, Blaklion and Total Recall are the early favourites, and there is good reason.
Total Recall did not compete in the Grand National last year; however, Blaklion will be making a return to Aintree. Trained by Nigel Twiston-Davies, Blaklion managed a 4th place finish after starting at a price of 8/1.
Total Recall was trained by famed Irish trainer Willie Mullins. Big things are expected from the horse based on Mullins’ great track record. Last year’s winner, One for Arthur will not be back to defend his crown. The horse was ruled out for the season last October, which could leave the door wide-open for an unexpected winner.
Cause for Causes, runner-up in 2017, is back for another shot at glory. Another Irish trained horse (Gordan Elliot), Cause for Causes is 16/1 to take top prize. Some experts are worried about Cause for Causes weight going into Aintree. In addition, the horse is expected to run fewer prep races to get ready for the big event. Find out more about the 2018 Grand National Handicap Weights before you wager on this year’s race.
Longshots
Punters always love a longshot at the Grand National and this year will be no different. One Aintree expert has already identified Captain Redbeard as a dark horse to win. Captain Redbeard is currently 100/1 to win, which is a fantastic price if he can top the field. Captain Redbeard’s trainer has raved about the horse’s form and believes he is in great shape as the event nears.
Maggio is another 100/1 longshot that has been identified by betting experts. Maggio’s owner is a former Grand National winner with Auroras Encore. The horse topped the field in 2013. Maggio is 13-years old which may put some punters off wagering on the him.
Seeyouatmidnight has had his odds lowered to 33/1. The horse suffered some early season fitness problems but should be fully prepared for the Grand National. Prep races could be a problem heading into Aintree. However, there are some that believe the added rest could keep him fit and firing when the stalls open.