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.

5th 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.

HYLAND is one of the more interesting each-way contenders in this year’s Grand National. It must be noted that the Nicky Henderson-trained runner needs two to come out to guarantee his participation. Hyland is an intriguing challenger, as a novice chaser, attempting to give his trainer a first success in the race.

Deploying new hold-up tactics last-time-out at Kempton, Hyland came through with a keeping-on second, showing his capabilities as a three-mile plus chaser. Good ground is crucial to him and, with a dry week anticipated in Liverpool, conditions should be ideal.

With many Irish contenders at the head of the betting, it is surprising to see the Henry De Bromhead-trained SENIOR CHIEF at such a big each-way price. The Gentlewave gelding is a potential improver over fences after just six chase outings. He scored well on quick ground at Cheltenham in October, prior to a respectable 6th in the Gold Cup Handicap Chase at Newbury.

A midfield run over hurdles on ground unlikely to suit should have teed him up nicely for this huge target and he seems to have gone under the radar, for a trainer who is no stranger to success in this – he trained Minella Times to win in 2021.