As the focus of the National Hunt world moves from Cheltenham onto Aintree and the upcoming Randox Health Grand National, we’ve picked out five runners that are technically well-in based off the BHA handicapper's post-festival ratings adjustments.
Anibale Fly (+9)
The JP McManus horse put in an eye-catching showing in the Cheltenham Gold Cup, staying on strongly up the hill to claim third.
Although he never looked like landing a blow on the leading pair, few horses would have, and he acquitted himself well.
He’s been handed a rating of 168 for that but will race off 159 at Aintree.
The question is: can he recover from a hard race in time to put his best foot forward?
Bellshill (+7)
Willie Mullins’ charge was second behind Might Bite in last year’s RSA and wasn’t seen in action again until last month.
That reappearance was a pleasing one at Fairyhouse, where he landed the Bobbyjo Chase in comfortable style.
He’s 7lb well-in on ratings based off that and, as anyone who saw the Albert Bartlett knows, Mullins can bring one back from a layoff ably.
Shantou Flyer (+5)
Richard Hobson’s inmate finished a fine second behind Coo Star Sivola in the Ultima Handicap last week.
As credible as that run was, his stamina looked to be stretched towards the end of that 3m 1f trip and there’s a question mark over whether or not he’ll stay.
He was pulled up before four out in the race last year.
He’s been handed down a BHA rating of 157, while he’ll shoulder off 152 on the day.
Rathvinden (+4)
The 10-year-old gamely touched off Ms Parfois to win the four-miler at the festival.
Staying that trip so well on soft ground means that, unlike so many of the entrants to this year’s rendition of the Grand National, he’ll surely stay the trip easily on what should be better ground.
He was handed down a rating of 154 but can race off 150 for the Aintree feature, leaving him officially 4lb well in.
Tiger Roll (+2)
The winner of the Cross-Country was well punted before the race and put in a sterling effort for Gordon Elliott to land the spoils.
That race is a stern examination of jumping and should leave him well prepared for the peculiarities of Aintree.
He's being backed once more head of his next trip to the racecourse.
He’s been nudged up to 152 for his win but will race off 150 on Merseyside.
