IROKO holds rock-solid credentials of running a big race in the world’s most celebrated jumps race - the Grand National Handicap Chase. JP McManus, owner of last year’s winner, I Am Maximus, owns the seven-year-old son of Cokoriko. Fifth in last season’s G1 Turners Novices’ Chase at the Cheltenham festival, he followed up with an excellent second to subsequent G1 Cheltenham Gold Cup winner Inothewayurthinkin.

A mixed record has been evident this term, with distinct promise seen at Haydock, and particularly in a Listed Chase second behind the classy Grey Dawning at Kelso. Despite not running beyond 3m1f, connections have been keen to run in this race for the past two seasons, with the endurance contest expected to suit.

An eight-year-old gelding who is improving for Willie Mullins this year, and this race could be coming at the right time. Racing consistently before hitting the ground running this year and producing two career bests, Nick Rockett has won twice this year in Grade 3 company at Gowran Park and Fairyhouse, and there is likely more to come from this eight-year-old. Sporting a 50% win rate and finishing inside the top four in 91% of his races, he always seems to be there or thereabouts, and given there are six places on offer, he looks a solid each-way bet in the Grand National.

Fitting the agenda for stats surrounding the Grand National, Nick Rockett is in his second season of chasing, and given seven of the last nine winners of the Grand National were second-season chasers and 22 of the previous 30 winners were aged between eight and 10, he’s ticking all the right boxes.

Irish Grand National winner, INTENSE RAFFLES, holds solid claims of finishing in the placings for trainer, Thomas Gibney. Plenty has been made of his preference for soft ground, which is why there has been a big drift in the market, but he now rates an attractive proposition at double-figure odds.

He isn’t as slow as some make out and he certainly is one who has the requisite class and stamina to go close. Hyland, Senior Chief and Minella Cocooner complete the shortlist of those who appeal for the huge showstopper.

A long shot but a top-class chaser back in his heyday who won six of his first 10 appearances over the larger obstacles, but after being sent hurdling at the end of 2023 and winless from seven starts, he now finds himself back over fences this year. Winning impressively on his return to fences at Cheltenham in January, Chantry House stayed on well to win by a comfortable 6 ½ lengths before following up with a disappointing run in a Grade 2 when fifth of six.

Capable of running well in this Grand National on his day and given the extra place incentives from bookmakers, a top six finish sports a healthy return if he can rekindle his form of old.