Scottish Grand National Preview

Ayr - Saturday 21st April 2018

The Scottish Grand National takes centre stage for National Hunt fans this weekend over at Ayr and it’s a Grade 3 Handicap Chase that’s ridden over three miles and seven furlongs.

Vicente bids to win the race for the third successive year for Paul Nicholls and I wouldn’t put you past him doing just that. He’s heading the market at the moment and can be found trading as a general 10/1 chance.

I’ve narrowed it down here to two selections though and the first of these comes in the form of FAGAN for the all conquering Gordon Elliott yard. He hasn’t been seen since October when second at Cheltenham so he comes here a lot fresher than most. The trip is an obvious unknown for him but I think this has been planned out for him for some time and he could well get competitive if he gets around. He’s trading at around 11/1 and Aintree National winner Davy Russell is on board.

The second one I like here is VINTAGE CLOUDS. Completely opposite to Fagan he comes here off the back of several tough runs all in heavy ground so he’s certainly battle hardened. I think he’s been crying out for a test like this, many thought he had a plausible chance in the English National had he been able to take his place. He’s a general 12/1 chance and Danny Cook takes the ride.

FAGAN - 11/1 (E/W)

VINTAGE CLOUDS - 12/1 (E/W)