Less than a week to go until the John Smith's Grand National.

Can't Wait.

Anyone going to the meeting?
Tips?

Not a clue this year. More inclined to back a jockey as opposed to a horse.

Looking forward to the race - always plenty of action.

Three bets stand out to me on the other non-National races.

Starluck in the 4yo Hurdle

Agus A Vic in the Foxhunters Chase

Fiveforthree in the Aintree Hurdle.

Already backed State of Play (43/1), Southern Vic (37/1) and Musica Bella (200's+) for the National itself.

For anyone that watched the Harlequins-Hull game, I think it was obvious who Martin Offiah's got his money on!

Currently 14/1

Im on Southern Vic too but only 25s though. Also backed Chelsea Harbour ages ago but think its run too much since then.

Agree re Agus A Vic and Fiveforthree, although i'd be against Starluck and will back Hebridean if it runs.

This meeting doesnt always follow the order of things from Cheltenham as i recall so could be some decent value out there.

will be backing whatever ruby walsh is on - prob My Will

Cloudy Lane

Black Appalachi - although ground might be against it

maybe 1 or 2 others

Not decided concrete on the National yet ..

Got Irish Invader last Monday at 50/1 - Now 20/1.

Also like the look of Can't Buy Time, will probably bet on him on Saturday.

Looking forward to this, The Grand National is obviously not a race for the serious punter so i just have a few over-priced E/W's, its the other races that interest me more.

Ideal Weight for the National = Under 11 stone.

Ideal age for the National = 9.

Always back a horse that has finished 1st or 2nd in it's last race.

Offshore Account 40/1.

Ping pong sivola looked quite impressive at Cheltenham and if it shows that form again should go close in the topham @ 6s.

Ill be back on here on the day of the races when we know exactly what's running.

Not sure how you come to the conclusion that 9 is the magic age for a horse in the Grand National.

Only 5 of the last 19 winners have been 9.

You could never be sure which Black Apalachi would turn up, but the horse has improved so much since moving yards this season. Has run well this season and has got a run over hurdles under his belt.

I think i will have a bet on him on the day.