The National

scojones

Right, I know we have a thread going already with regards to this race here http://www.boards.ie/vbulletin/showthread.php?t=2054905131 but the thread is old enough and may have run it's course, and people's opinions may have changed since they last posted there. Anyway, this thread is for you to post your Grand National selections in, and your bets if you like Every year I do five bets to keep the race interesting when my selections go down. Nothing worse than sitting there having no horse left in the race, while people shout for theirs. Afterall the national is a lottery, and it's just a bit of fun too

• I've gone heavily each way on Garvivonnian at 20/1.
• Clan Royal at 6/1 during the week.
• Hedgehunter. Did the business for me last time and I'd never forgive myself if I didn't go with it again after it's superb Cheltenham performance.
• Innox
• Juveigneur

Best of luck lads, we'll need it!

The jock

My View on the race:

Last years winner of the race is, Hedge hunter one of the joint favourites with clan royal. Hedge Hunter trained by Willie Mullins who's horses are currently not running well has 11lbs more weight to carry this year than when he won the race last year which in racing terms the field have 11 lengths advantage except for Royal Auclair who also has more weight this year . Hedge hunter who had a hard run coming second in this years gold cup to war of attrition taking nothing away from war of attrition this years gold cup was not the best as beef or salmon was the favourite .Hedge hunter had a hard race and at 5/1 his price is too small for me. Same goes for clan royal as we will never know would he of won last year if he wasn’t interfered with when going well. The year, before he was placed but didn’t seem to stay out the trip fully and he was swishing his tail on the run in which isn’t the best sign.

My main pick for the race is a horse called Numbersixvalverde, who is the winner of last years Irish Grand National and Thyestes chase a race which Hedge hunter once won. Numersixvalverde will be ridden by Niall “slippers” Madden who thinks the world of this horse. At around 12/1 it’s a great each way price. He has being running over hurdles in every race this year to keep his weight down and staying on in the finish every time over a shorter trip. Other main Irish hopes are jack high who has a few lengths to find with number six and Garvivonnian who is an interesting horse. He has being gambled on for this race now since he won over the national fences a few months ago but I think he may find a few too good. For outsiders I think Joes Edge a winner of last years Scottish Grand National might run well at a price. Juveigneur who I tipped for the Cheltenham festival is also in with a chance, he stays and jumps for fun and will be reeling them in the finish. Lord Of Illusion who ran a great race in the gold cup has being aimed at this race for years has a nice weight and capable jockey on board may also run well. If you want a 100/1 chance I recommend Risk Accessor who ran well at Cheltenham recently.

Stats are a main clue to who will win the Grand National
The following are positives and negatives of the Grand National over the last 100 years that will contribute or affect a horse:

Stats Positive and Negative

Positives:
Races Prominently
Ran in the Hennessy Cognac Gold Cup or in the Welsh National
Trained in Ireland
The first eight in the betting
8 to 11 year old
Form over National Fences
Won over 3m


Negatives:
Not won over 3m
Carrying 11st 6lbs or more
Younger than eight
Older than twelve
French-breds
Horses wearing headgear

Outcome after positives and negitives are:

Numbersixvalverde
10 - 1
Joes Edge
20 - 1
Lord Of Illusion
25 - 1
Silver Birch
25 - 1
Ballycassidy
66 – 1

fr wishy washy

Clan Royal (on the nose)
Juveigner (e/w)
Inca Trail (e/w):eek:

Think 3 will do me.;)

ziggy

This post has been deleted.

00dyel

Clan Royal (was going really well last year and lowish weight)
Le Duc (likes this course and fences and off a low weight)
Silver Birch (not ideal preparation but will go well, one of the best jumpers on his day in the field)

Crumbs

To win:
Clan Royal - "the most obvious winner of the National ever" - have him backed at 10s, 9s and 8s.

E/w:
Numbersixvalverde - have him at 25/1, might lay off a bit tomorrow.
Sir OJ - a very interesting contender, he won a Grade 2 over only 2 miles just 6 weeks ago, but this race has always been the plan.
Colonel Rayburn - has a better chance than his big price suggests.

Hedgehunter is a good-thing to place.

Jak

Well to finish off my betting I have now ...

Jack High - Win
Innox - E/W
Garvivonnian - E/W
Haut de Gamme - E/W

Ballycassidy at 100-1 - heavily E/W

Other than this I have a couple of accumulators and trebles involving the likes of Wellbeing, Saif Sareea, Green Tango, Sky's the Limit, Alfie Flits and Hedgehunter.

finnpark

Jak wrote:

Ballycassidy at 100-1 - heavily E/W

I dont think you should go too heavily on this horse. It needs a lot of luck to be placed. Not sure if its been primed for this although I did back him myself.

The only other horse that stands out is Jack High.

One thing nobody has touched on: Peak - the winner must peak. For the likes of Hedgehunter and Clan Royal to peak too years in a row is unlikely, although you may get good runs from at least one of them. Its an extremely competitive handicap although the stats will help.

No heavy betting but:

Jack High EW
Ballycassidy EW:)

persian

1.Cornish Rebel
2.Direct Access
3.Ross Comm

they'll do me

finnpark

Jak wrote:

Ballycassidy at 100-1 - heavily E/W

Just wondering have you any reason for selecting this horse?

Also, what are other people best outsiders above 33/1?

20 Times 20 Times

I got hedgehunter in the buster in work today. So my €5 is going to bring me back(hopefully) €100 in returns not bad bet at 20/1

Sorry for going off topic
Im going to do one bet only this year and its simple
reverse forecast on

Hedgehunter and Clan royal

I wont scare you and tell you how much im putting on.

wb

finnpark wrote:

I dont think you should go too heavily on this horse. It needs a lot of luck to be placed. Not sure if its been primed for this although I did back him myself.

The only other horse that stands out is Jack High.

One thing nobody has touched on: Peak - the winner must peak. For the likes of Hedgehunter and Clan Royal to peak too years in a row is unlikely, although you may get good runs from at least one of them. Its an extremely competitive handicap although the stats will help.

No heavy betting but:

Jack High EW
Ballycassidy EW:)

Finn, you have been tipping Ballycassidy all along. Now you say it needs a lot of luck to be placed. Why the change of mind?

Morgans

Royal Auclair: P Nicholls C Williams 9 11-12
A brilliantly game servant for connections, who has finished second in a ‘Whitbread’, fourth in a Gold Cup, and second under a huge weight in this contest last year , a full 14l behind Hedgehunter. He has performed admirably all season while not gaining quite the same rewards, and was arguably lucky to gain his only triumph at Cheltenham in November. A battling performance in the Gold Cup, where he finished 14l behind Hedgehunter again (off levels) suggests that the former Cathcart Chase winner will once again give an honest performance. All ground comes alike to the top weight, but having had a wind operation in the past, good ground does help. Added to all the reservations about carrying such a big weight in this long distance contest, he is not well in with last year’s conqueror. It will be a surprise if he is quite good enough to land this, but each way players should get a good run for their money.

Hedgehunter: W Mullins R Walsh 10 11-12
Last year’s winner has progressed further up the chasing ladder this season, chasing home Beef or Salmon in the Hennessey before beating all bar War of Attrition in the Gold Cup. Last year’s win bust the 11 stone weight trend that appeared to rule out many of the Grand National field each year, and the manner of victory suggested that Trevor Hemming’s gelding would have carried more than the allotted 11-1 to victory. A suberb jumper who fell through exhaustion at the last in 2004, he was ridden with slightly more restraint last year and the tactics worked as he sprinted clear of all pursuers from the elbow. Although he has 11-12 to carry, he is still 10lb well in on handicap ratings, and his chances of becoming the first back to back National winner since Red Rum in 1974 (and only the second since the war) depend on the rain that is falling at the course. Heavy ground would help those carrying lesser weights as well as placing a premium on stamina, something that Hedgehunter just might lack in a slog. Not only is he is closest to an old style ‘National’ type in the race, he is undoubtedly the most talented, and given that he is proven over the course, has best rider on board, he has lots of plusses, but if the rains continue to fall, his price will drift in accordance with his decreased chance. Genuine good ground and he should be bang there again, but the value in the price is gone, and given those negatives (weight, rain, and tough race at Cheltenham), he is worth opposing at the odds.

Cornish Rebel: P Nicholls J Tizzard 9 11-9
A quirky customer who threw away the Scottish National last season, after jumping the last in front under Ruby Walsh, he has found it hard to find the winners enclosure in the past couple of years as he has been plying his trade in the top company, finishing third in both the Sun Alliance Chase and Newbury’s Hennessey. Blinkers were finally fitted when the horse took his chance in the Gold Cup, and he travelled sweetly for today’s rider until a mistake at the third last ruined all chance he had. He had previously floundered in the Chepstow mud when third in the Welsh National, and like all those towards the head of the weights, the rain that is currently falling at Aintree will make the test even tougher. One of the few animals in the race whose best days remain ahead of him, he has claims to getting involved if the blinkers work a second time and the rain stays away. Horses that think about things have two ways of taking to the National task, facing the challenge with aplomb or shying away from the hard work, It is virtually impossible to guess what Cornish Rebel will do, but if putting his best foot forward he has the class and stamina to go close, even off this large weight. Its hard to see him winning if the ground goes against him though.

Therealbandit: M Pipe R Johnson 9 11-9
Highly tried as a novice that got back on the winning trail when beating Take The Stand in the Roland Meyrick Chase at Wetherby at Christmas. He benefited from Andrew Glassonbury’s useful 10lb allowance then, and despite a series of efforts that has earned connections place prizemoney through the years, he has never looked well enough handicapped to win a big pot. He tackles the National course for the first time on Saturday and while Richard Johnson could get a good run out of the horse, the stable has been in the doldrums for a while now, (despite Celestial Gold’s win yesterday) and he can be opposed. David Johnson’s retained jockey, Timmy Murphy rides It Takes Time in preference.

Morgans

It Takes Time: M Pipe TJ Murphy 12 11-9
A formerly smart staying hurdler has not achieved all that was hoped over larger obstacles but took advantage of a poor field to land the 2m4f Grade 1 Ascot Chase last season, before following up with a sterling fourth in this race last season. Now a 12yo, it is likely that his best chances to win this race are behind him. He was a distant fourth behind stablemate Our Vic in the Ascot Chase and despite being the choice of Timmy Murphy, he looks an unlikely winner for David Johnson and Martin Pipe. He has performed well on all sorts of ground, but should the ground turn worse than soft any lingering doubts surrounding the horses are likely to be exposed. Stable not in great form and dismissed for tomorrow’s contest.


Le Roi Miguel: P Nicholls L Heard 8 11-7
He looked all over a two-miler as a novice, zipping around Aintree’s Mildmay course to land the Maghull novices chase three years ago, and it may be that had he been with a lesser stable he would have been campaigned differently. With Azertyuiop in the yard, Le Roi Miguel was tried over further out of novice company, and despite a good win in the Peterborough Chase he has now lost most of the verve he showed in his early days. Le Roi Miguel has spent a lot of time toiling in races against better handicapped animals, performing with some credit when chasing home Moscow Flyer in the Melling Chase last season, Therealbandit finished behind in third. Most recently, Le Roi Miguel has contested two outings over hurdles, maybe in an effort to sweeten him up before tackling this contest. A superb jumper, it should be a thrilling experience for Liam Heard, but he is unlikely to last home, especially if the rain gets into the ground.

Native Upmanship: A Moore C O’Dwyer 13 11-0
Yet another horse that is known as being better over shorter, finishing second in two Champion Chases and has looked a superstar over 2m4f when twice winning the Melling Chase at this course in his prime. Very much into the twilight of his career, he can still occasionally keep tabs with high class younger animals but those efforts are beginning to be farther apart. The old stalwart from the Moore stable should mind himself over the larger obstacles, and give Conor O’Dwyer a nice spin round. He has served the stable well and he will not be abused when the horse’s chance has gone. He has little chance of making his mark in this event, and as long as the old warrior comes back in one piece, everyone will be happy.

Innox: F Doumen R Thornton 10 10-13
The fine French stayer who can maintain a powerful gallop ran a huge race last season coming from mid pack to get into the argument four out, only to fail due to a lack of stamina from the Melling road home, fading in the end to finish a well beaten seventh. This year has seen him in improved form gamely winning competitive handicaps are Cheltenham’s open meeting before accounting for stablemate L’Ami (receiving 7lbs) in the Racing Post Chase at Sandown. He took up the running down the back straight then and kept pulling out more as the challenges tried to take him on from the Pond Fence home. His solid jumping (albeit he moves left-handed at his fences) will stand him in good stead and it is only a question if the more targeted Aintree preparation will enable him to get home this year. Despite last year’s experiences, many punters will only consider horses carrying less than 11 stone in the race, and Innox comes into the race with many ticks in the right boxes and is undoubtedly on the short list. Well weighted, in form, no worries about the course or ground, only the distance would concern his supporters. Tony McCoy would probably have the choice of the JP McManus runners in the race, and he has stuck with last year’s unlucky Clan Royal. Rejected by McCoy, he is one that I will overlook reluctantly tomorrow also. The better the ground, the better chance he has of getting home, and should the rains get into the ground, his chances decrease.

Silver Birch: P Nicholls S Thomas 9 10-12
Ante post favourite for this race after landing the 2004 Welsh National and Becher Chase, Paul Nicholls’s young stayer suffered an injury that forced him to miss the race and the rest of the season. Unfortunately for supporters who saw the Clearly Bust gelding as a natural for the National, he has not recovered any semblance of his pre-injury form, pulling up against moderate opposition in two hurdles races after initially pleasing connections behind Clan Royal on his seasonal debut. With so little recent promise, it would be a shock if he was able to get involved tomorrow.


Whispered Secret: M Pipe R Greene 7 10-12
Martin Pipe’s novice doesn’t look well handicapped and you would have to wonder if allowing the horse to take his chance is almost done to upset the grader, as the horse has never looked like a National type, lacks the experience required and although he won a Cheltenham handicap through fitness in October was well beaten by Reveillez in the Jewson at the festival. The only thing going for him is that Martin Pipe can produce miracles with his horses, but it would be a miracle if he was to finish in the top six. You wont make money long term backing horses like this is races such as this. Dismissed.

Rince Ri: T Walsh A McNamara 13 10-12
Like Native Upmanship, Rince Ri was top class in his day, unseating Ruby Walsh at the third last when bang in contention for the 2000 Gold Cup, but his best days are behind him and has spent the last couple of years plying his trade in handicap hurdles. Last time out, he followed Forget the Past and Garvivonnian home at a respectable distance in the Bobbyjo chase, but only one thirteen year old has won the race in the past 100 years and is safely discounted in this contest. Again, like Native Upmanship, as long as the horse comes home safe, all connections will be happy.

Morgans

Puntal: M Pipe B Geraghty 10 10-12
Another intriguing contender from the Pipe yard. Rarely seen on the track these days, he sprang a surprise when winning the ‘Whitbread’ as a novice chaser two years ago (beating Royal Auclair by a short head) having previously looked a serious thinker completely out of love with the game. He has previously downed tools when headed in races against horses of lesser talent. Small in stature, he was jumping brilliantly in the lead when he last tackled this race (in 2004) before he unseated on the way to Becher’s second time round. The way he kept on up the Sandown hill in the Whitbread the following month surprised many as he had previously looked to have serious stamina limitations over extreme distances. Off the course since disappointing twice last season, Martin Pipe will have got the horse spot on for his first contest in 16 months, and is worth a second look in the betting at long odds currently on offer. Martin Pipe has acquired the services of National winning jockey Barry Geraghty for the horse and he could run a lot better than his odds suggest and it wouldn’t be a huge surprise if he turned out to be the best of the stable’s quintet. A small speculative each bet at 80/1 could pay dividends. One of the sneaky outsiders, but he is 80/1 for a reason, and should at least one or two strong tomorrow.

Lord of Illusion: T George J Maguire 9 10-11
Another front running bold jumper that should be up in the van for a long way. Tom George’s son of Mister Lord racked up a sequence of novice handicaps last season, before an injury ruled him out of the Sun Alliance Chase. It took him a long time to regather the threads of this career this season, disappointing several times, including in the Hennessey when fancied, before unlucky to catch a tartar in a Cheltenham handicap at New Years. He ran better htan his finishing position suggested in the Gold Cup, leading for a long way, jumping enthusiastically, before being eased when beaten at the top of the hill. He was a rank outsider in that event and was most probably used to fine tune his National preparation. Getting weight from classier animals will suit, and its not difficult to see the horse run a big race. Horses up with the pace often have the advantage of staying out of trouble made by others, and there are worse each way shots given that he has the ideal age and weight profile. However, despite that run in the New Year, he just doesn’t look to have completely recovered from last season’s injury, and in such a competitive race where his stamina is unproven, he has one too many negatives against him to suggest him as a punting proposition. A likeable animal with a lovely attitude to racing, he should give Jason Maguire a nice round.

Ebony Light: D McCain S Craine 10 10-10
Shocked many with a 33/1 defeat of Kingcliff and Lord Transcend in the Peter Marsh Chase at Haydock this January, propelling him up the handicap to his current mark. Subsequently. he failed to repeat the trick back at the Merseyside track when beaten a long way by Osmosses in the Red Square Vodka Gold Cup. Chances are that he will take time to get back into the winners enclosure in conventional races given his inflated mark over conventional fences. Yet another horse that usually races up with the pace, he will give one of the best apprentices riding at the moment, Steven Craine, an exhilarating experience, but he doesn’t look well in, and he will certainly be harried for the lead early. Not getting his own way in front contributed to his poor performance last time, and there is a chance that he will turn in another moody performance tomorrow. I am willing to overlook the highest rated of the McCain trio tomorrow.

First Gold: F Doumen R McGrath 13 10-10
Like Native Upmanship and Rince Ri, the horse is a shadow of his former self. Francois Doumen’s star put up one of the staying chase performances of the decade when beating Florida Pearl in the 2000 King George looking as if the chasing world was at his feet. He hasn’t really progressed since being sold into JP McManus’s ownership but turned back the years with a fantastic front running performance in last season’s Peter Marsh Chase, losing out to Lord Transcend, miles clear of the rest of a decent field. He however has not got his head in front since 2003 and consequently has continually dropped down the ratings. His best days are behind him and looks JP McManus’s third string. Can front run and Richard McGrath will rarely sit on a more talented animal, but his heydays are behind him and can be opposed tomorrow.

Clan Royal: JJ O’Neill AP McCoy 11 10-10
A continual heartbreak for connections and supporters in the National. After winning the Becher chase in a titanic struggle with Amberleigh House in 2003, he was extremely unlucky to find the same rival too strong from the elbow in the National the following April. Clan Royal jumped the last in front under Liam Cooper but failed to steer the straightest course in the final quarter mile allowing Graham Lee’s mount to nab him in the final 100yards. Put away by connections to protect what looked like a winning handicap mark, he was partnered by Tony McCoy in last year’s race and was running away under the Champion jockey, 8l clear of the field when two loose horses forced the horse to refuse on the run to Becher’s. He looked to be tanking along at the time and those who have backed Clan Royal again for this year’s race would like to see the horse going as well at a similar stage tomorrow. The fact that he pulled to the front suggests to some that he might not see the full trip out, but his position clear of the field last year was as much to do with his headstrong nature as it was with his immaculate fencing. He was gaining as much as two lengths on the field on the run down to Bechers. The way the race panned out, its not hard to imagine that the racing community was robbed of a successor to Red Rum and Crisp National, with the held up Hedgehunter chasing down the superb jumping pace setter from the last. It is almost unanimously agreed that Clan Royal would have finished second at worst last year had luck been on his side. Clan Royal has been given a similar preparation for this season’s target, and proved his well being by winning at Market Rasen last time out. Although at 11 he is older than the regular National winner, he has virtually no miles on the clock, and he has a lot going for him tomorrow, given that Hedgehunter now has to give him a stone, 10lbs more than last season. He is the unoriginal idea of the winner but there is relatively little value in selecting him at 6/1, and many looking for reasons to oppose the horse are suggesting incorrectly that Tony McCoy’s poor record in the race as a negative, goes to show how few marks he has against him. Coming into the race in arguably better form that last year, he is a solid favourite, with a nice weight and any staking plan should include him. If luck is on his side this year, he is the one that the field has to beat.

Le Duc: P Nicholls J Moore 7 10-10
There were hopes that Le Duc would develop into a top class chaser after reversing Triumph hurdle places with Spectrometer and Well Chief in the Grade 1 juvenile hurdle at Aintree three years ago. He has proven to be just below top class throughout his career to date and now looks exposed and like the connection’s other National contender Le Roi Miguel is becoming difficult to place. However, but is interesting in the context of this race, Seemingly a little too slow to win over a range of distances in conventional courses, he ran his best race for some time when chasing home Garvivonian in the Becher Chase over the National fences in November. Paul Nicholls’s animal get a four pound pull for a 3/4l defeat, and may relish the test that tomorrow presents. He has not raced since unseating Ruby Walsh when staying on behind Lord of Illusion at Cheltenham at New Year, but he will not lack for fitness coming from the Nicholls stable. Although the regular Nicholls pilots have been claimed for other horses, Jamie Moore’s all action style might suit the horse. Although he has to conclusively prove that he stays the extreme distance, he is hoping that the old adage that 2m4f horses can still adapt to this unique test. (Something that I still believe is relevant despite the changing of many aspects of the race) He has a chance of being involved and there are those with worse chances at lesser odds, but he hasn’t won in an age and can be opposed. A good run wouldn’t surprise.

Morgans

Sir OJ: N Meade P Carberry 9 10-10
Yet another of the 2m4f brigade willing to take their chance in this most extreme test of stamina. Noel Meade’s 9yo has done well since impressing in novice chases last year, where he finished fourth in last year’s Jewson having two days previously been outpaced in the Arkle, and last December he stormed up the hill to claim an unlikely victory in the Robin Cook Memorial Chase over 2m5f. The way he finished that day suggests that he would have no problem staying 3m plus, and understandably last time out, he was just beginning to feel the pinch in the Ryanair Chase when falling at the top of the hill. Still somewhat unexposed, he could have a few pounds in hand of the handicapper but whether he can take advantage tomorrow is another question. One of the classier animals who conceivably could travel well off the pace, he has the ideal partner in Paul Carberry to nurse the decent fencer around for the first circuit. Whether the pace will relent enough for the horse to get into contention is doubtful, as this is a huge jump into the unknown stamina wise. Connections are confident that he is the type to run well, and chances are that he cruise around off the pace until his stamina gives out. It will probably be about Valentine’s in the second circuit just when he looks like he is about to get involved that he backpeddals. Watching brief to be employed.

Forest Gunner: R Ford Ms N Carberry 12 10-10
One of the favourites for last year’s race following his previously exhilarating performances in the Foxhunters and the Grand Sefton Chase at Aintree’s autumn meeting, he plugged on to finish a game fifth behind Hedgehunter under the trainer’s wife Carrie Ford. Another female, Nina Carberry, takes over from the retired Mrs Ford and he surprised all those who saw him soar over the National fences three times previously by unseating Nina at the first fence in this season’s Becher Chase last November. He doesn’t come into the same race in nearly the same form as twelve months ago, having pulled up disappointingly in his last two race, most recently when miles behind Therealbandit in the Roland Meyrick. He has run well off a break previously and the trainer is very capable of getting his horses ready, but last year was the horse’s best chance of victory in the race, and it is unlikely to provide Nina with a famous victory at 12 years of age.

Joes Edge: F Murphy D Russell 9 10-10
The winner under an inspired Keith Mercer ride of last year’s Scottish National has struggled this season, finishing well behind both Ollie Magern and Therealbandit at Wetherby before taking his chance in the Gold Cup where he never featured. However, he has all the hallmarks of being a spring horse and improvement is likely in the final weeks of the season now that he steps back up in trip on better ground, but he has been deserted by Keith Mercer for Haut de Gamme and it would be surprise if even on his best form he was to win tomorrow. Davy Russell comes in for the ride.

Juveigneur: N Henderson M Fitzgerald 9 10-9
Interesting contender from Nicky Henderson’s Seven Barrow’s stable. He looked a likely type for this race for the National obsessed owner Trevor Hemmings following his second to Jack High in the Betfred Gold Cup last May, but he disappointingly fell early on when first tackling the National fences in the Becher Chase. He bounced back to form when beating all bar the flying Dun Doire in the NH chase at the Cheltenham festival, and given that he gets in here on an ideal weight, is the ideal age, promises to stay, and has a National winning jockey on board, who selected him from a team of possible rides, he has ticks in most to the pertinent boxes. Given that he made a mistake at the last when a good leap would have probably sealed the Cheltenham race, he was arguably unlucky to get collared late on, by a horse that would be a short price had he got into this race. A real street fighting stayer with a good attitude, he has more than a touch of class and looks well treated for such a test, 25/1 represents good each way value.

Amberleigh House: D McCain G Lee 14 10-9
The old stager of the field had his day in the sun when reversing previous Becher Chase placings when beating Clan Royal in 2004, breaking a hoodoo over 12yos in the race. He had previously finished third in the race behind Monty’s Pass in 2003, and once again ran his best race this season when seventh behind Garvivonnian in this November’s Becher Chase. His form away from Aintree leaves a lot to be desired and while he wouldn’t be expected to show up in those contest, the suspicion is that old father time has caught up with him. He should potter round the course he loves, but others will be going quicker. Graham Lee maintains the National winning partnership but like some others, as long as he comes back safe, the retiring trainer Ginger McCain will be happy.

Ballycassidy: P Bowen L Aspell 10 10-9
A formerly decent handicapper who chased home Strong Flow in a Feltham Chase at Kempton but he has looked on the downgrade for a while now. Ran his best race for some time when fifth in the Racing Post Chase at 100/1 and although he enjoys good ground, connections have dithered about the horses participation in the last week. He has sulked in the past and may not enjoy the challenge. He would be a surprise winner tomorrow.

Inca Trail: D McCain B Harding 10 10-9
Shares many of the traits of his full brother, Cornish Rebel, and has proven equally as infuriating to follow in the past couple of seasons. His tendency to pull himself immediately when hitting the front often left experienced jockeys with egg on their face, but has benefited from having his sights lowered and the tender handling of both Charlotte Tizzard and James Snowdon to win both the Grand Artillery and Grand Military Gold Cups at Sandown. The form of both was very ordinary, beating a 90 rated 100/1 shot by a short head on the latter occasion. He has changed hands for 110,000 out of Paul Nicholls stable for the race, and while he is probably the most talented of the McCain trio in the race, he is a horse that takes plenty of knowing, and it would be a little surprising if his new rider and trainer will have figured him out by now. Wouldn’t be the greatest surprise to see him involved but it would be a shock if he didn’t stop in front should he get there. In general, one to avoid, but next year he could be interesting over the extreme trip.

Garvivonnian: E Mitchell G Cotter 11 10-8
Interesting contender from a smaller Irish stable but one to be respected given the support he has received in the past couple of days. Often lumbered with big weights in Irish staying handicaps, he has toiled without much reward for large parts of his career but put up an improved performance when encountering the National fences in the Becher Chase last November, taking the race at odds of 33/1, beating Le Duc by 3/4l. Since then, all roads have led to Aintree and it after finding Tramore’s 2m6f too sharp over Christmas, his performance when second to Forget the Past in the Bobbyo Chase, the prep race used by Hedgehunter last year, was seen in an even better light when the winner made the frame in the Gold Cup. Although he has plenty of plus points in his favour including his decent weight, he wouldn’t have as much in hand as some of the other Irish winners of the past, and the value has gone from his price. He will stay galloping longer than most but might just lack the class of some of the principals. He is respected but opposed. It should be noted that Gareth Cotter has chosen to ride this horse rather than Jack High.

Numbersixvalverde: M Brassil N Madden 10 10-8
The Grand National has been the plan for this Broken Hearted gelding since fighting gamely to beat Jack High in the Irish National last year. He has mixed hurdling with fencing to date this year and was unlucky to be brought down when running well with a huge weight in the Paddy Power chase at Christmas. Plenty of promise has been evident in his attempts over smaller obstacles throughout the winter, and now stepped back up in trip once again, he can show what he is capable of. His solid jumping stood him in good stead at Fairyhouse last season and the National fences shouldn’t present undue problems. Ideally the horse would prefer the ground to be slightly softer than it is at present but given the forecast, there should be few excuses on that front. Hedgehunter’s presence has robbed Numbersixvalverde of Ruby Walsh’s assistance but it gives Niall Madden a dream ride in the National. A powerful stayer who ground out his win in the Irish National through a series of good jumps throughout the final mile, he has a touch of class, and will benefit from any rain that falls. It is not hard to imagine him being on the premises with any luck in running. His preparation means that his true ability is masked from the handicapper and it would be no surprise to see him good enough to benefit from his current mark. Definitely one for the short list but ideally a more experienced jockey would have taken the reigns.

Morgans

Iznogoud: M Pipe T Scudamore 10 10-8
Second in the Sun Alliance Chase in his novice season, everything has not fallen his way in recent years, occasionally running very well after a long break, placed in two Racing Post Chases and once was mugged by Tikram in the Mildmay of Flete at the festival. Little suggestion that he is about to recover his best form when he trailed home when outclassed in the Gold Cup. One of the outsiders tomorrow, and can be safely dismissed.

Jack High: T Walsh D Casey 11 10-7
Jack High developed into a high class staying chaser last season building on his Troytown win when somewhat unlucky in the Irish National, running around under Gareth Cotter from the second last once he hit the front, before being hauled back by the staying on Numbersixvalverde. Losses were recouped when he stayed on best of all from the last to beat Juveigneur in the Betfred Chase and went into many people’s notebook as the idea of a National winner. He has been campaigned specifically this year to ensure his chasing handicap mark was massaged for this race and it was only since the weights came out that he visited the winners enclosure again. On the face of it, it looks to have been a plan well hatched, but he has simply not been the same form this season as last, and only won at Down Royal on St. Patrick’s Day because of Romaha’s fall at the second last. Even then he laboured to get past the poor Nil Desperandum and it was pretty much a finish run in slow motion, and it was no huge surprise to see Gareth Cotter take over on Garvivonnian. He is the one horse towards the head of the Grand National market that I will oppose, as he simply isn’t progressing as he was at this stage last season. He could plod around to finish down the field but I think things will be happening too quick for him tomorrow.

Haut de Gamme: F Murphy K Mercer 11 10-7
One of the most interesting outsiders in the race. He travelled powerfully throughout last year’s Topham only to find the enigmatic Cregg House on a going day, beating the rest of the field easily, and once again performed admirably over the course when fifth to Garvivonian in the Becher Chase this season. Like so many of the horses, he has been campaigned primarily over hurdles (winning at Wetherby) in an effort to ensure a good weight come tomorrow, and the objective has been achieved. Now that he steps back up in trip, expect to see improvement. A good jumper, proven over the course, with a nice weight, he has plenty going for him. Older than the average National winner, he has not had a lot of miles on the clock and he represents one of the best value bets left in the race. As a hold up performer, he will need luck in running to pick his way though the carnage but at the current odds of 33/1, you should get a good run for your money. Keith Mercer rides in preference to stablemate Joes Edge.

Nil Desperandum: Mrs F Crowley T Treacy 9 10-7
Looked a superstar when winning the Drinmore Chase but after an injury interrupted his novice season, he has never recovered his form, running a series of sour races before he surprised many with his sixth placed finish in last year’s National. Even on the revised terms there is little chance of him reversing the places with Hedgehunter tomorrow. He has done well to pick up place prizemoney again this season but the fact that he couldn’t get by Native Upmanship in the Hennessey and Jack High at Down Royal doesn’t bode well. One to leave out of calculations.

Baron Windrush: N Twiston-Davies C Llewellyn 8 10-7
Like Haut de Gamme, Baron Windrush is one of the most interesting outsiders in the race. A good jumper from a National winning stable, he stamped himself a novice to note in staying chases when winning the Warwick Classic Chase last season. He failed to progress on that run when beaten by Forest Gunner at Haydock, and after benefiting form his initial run this season, he bounced back to form when a somewhat unlucky fourth in a particularly gruelling Eider Chase. Despite being held up off the pace, he got to the lead on the turn into the straight swinging on the bridle under Carl Llewellyn. The long straight and the gluepot ground found the horse out from the second last as the leaders walked the final quarter mile. He subsequently pulled up in Midlands Grand National, again run in a quagmire, but if those two races haven’t knocked the guts out of him, he should be shorter in the market. There are further staying chases to be won with the horse, and his price of 66/1 is out of line with his talent. A sound jumper, he won’t be put into race until late on, and if he manages to avoid trouble, he could give his supporters a good run for their money at large odds.

Heros Collonges: P Nicholls JP McNamara 11 10-7
Another horse who has had the sights lowered since his novice days as a result of injury, he ran a good race for a long way in last year’s contest, eventually finishing eight. It was the second time that he gave supporters a good run for their money in the race only to fade late on. Last time out, he failed to cope with some poor novice hurdlers at Exeter, and while tomorrow’s test will see him in a better light, he is unlikely to improve on last year’s performance.

Tyneandtyneagain: JH Johnson P Buchanan 11 10-7
Fine staying chaser for Richard Guest in his prime winning the Eider Chase under top weight in heavy ground, but a catalogue of injuries has meant that he was off the track for almost two years. He plodded on miles behind Osmosses in the Red Square Vodka Gold Cup on his latest run, and while he will more than likely complete the course, he is very unlikely to trouble the judges for his new connections.

Risk Accessor: JJ O’Neill N Fehily 11 10-6
A tricky customer to catch right, he has looked ready to win a big handicap chase all his life, going down by a short head to Iris Royal in the Tripleprint being the closest he has got. He has dropped down the weights from his prime and looks handicapped to win a race again, and has turned in several respectable efforts this season. His quirkiness was once again on display when he ran out at the last in the Racing Post Chase, where he was in the process of running a cracker, and his last time out fifth in the Kim Muir was an equally decent. However, he is another horse who is not guaranteed to stay 4m4f and having failed to complete twice before, it takes some faith to believe he will get involved tomorrow. Classy in his heyday but his best days are behind him. Unlikely to hit the frame.

Direct Access: N Richards A Dobbin 11 10-6
There are a couple of reasons to suspect that Nicky Richards’s 11yo can go close. Tony Dobbin has always been very sweet on Just In Debt as a national contender but chose to ride this horse in preference of Martin Todhunter’s gelding in this November’s Becher’s Chase. The plan backfired as Just in Debt followed up his previous year’s second by hitting the frame again, while Direct Access fell at the first. To prove how ready he was for that race, he turned out the following week to win a competitive Newcastle chase over 3m. Kept fresh since that run, he has been prepared for this race at home, and promises to run a big race if avoiding the kind of mishap that knocked him out last November. He was plenty classy enough in his younger days, running up a sequence in novice hurdles in 2001 but is yet another who had his expectations lowered due to injury. Winner of a Grand National already, Tony Dobbin has a great record in the race, and has stuck with the mount. The ground should present any problems and expect a serious effort from a trainer who does well at the course.

Morgans

Colonel Rayburn: P Nolan J Cullen 10 10-6
A huge gelding that suffered most apart from Clan Royal in the farce at Becher’s last year, almost coming to a standstill and losing his position in third. He fell soon after but he can be forgiven that as he was going well at the time of incident. Although the trainer has reported some hiccups in his preparation this season, he comes into the race with an appealing profile. He run creditably in the Thyestes before predictably finding Navan’s 2m too short last time out. Nicely weighted and not overfaced this season, a good run is expected from the 18hh gelding who can almost hurdle these huge fences. He has displayed enough speed to win races over 2m in the past but looks sure to benefit from the extreme test of tomorrow’s race. jockey John Cullen has recovered in time to take the mount and if getting a clear run can run into a place at a big price. The fact that the preparation hasn’t gone completely smoothly just tempers confidence. Otherwise he would be a stand out bet at the current prices.

Iris Royal: N Henderson M Foley 10 10-6
Formerly high class handicapper who captured the 2003 Tripleprint Gold Cup from Risk Accessor and the First National Bank Chase at Ascot from Le Roi Miguel, before ending the season with a good second in the Cathcart Chase. He is another of the seemingly 2m4f specialists hoping that the pace of the Grand National is run to suit. He has had a series of injuries that meant he has only been seen sporadically on the racecourse of late, but didn’t look to stay Wincanton’s sharp three miles last time out. If taking to the challenge, he could surprise many by being involved at the business end but he has been rejected by stable-jockey Mick Fitzgerald and chances are that even improving on his best form at 2 and half miles, the extended distance will find him out in the end.

Ross Comm: Mrs S Smith D Elsworth 10 10-6
A fancied contender from Sue Smith’s Yorkshire stable. His performances have steadily improved since coming to England from George Stewarts Northern Ireland yard, but the heights he currently has hit could not have been foreseen when he was beaten by Flahive First at Uttoxeter last July. Given time to acclimitise, the heavy ground at Carlisle brought out the ebst of the horse when he was one of the few to keep galloping through somme like conditions to beat a good field senseless. He was unlucky to fall before his cards were played when upped in class in the Hennessey, but looked far from out of his depth as he travelled well in that top class contest. Given a break in preparation for this race, he came on for his Newcastle hurdling defeat to win an uncompetitve handicap at Bangor last time out. Any horse with pretensions of Grand National glory would have needed to win that race, even over 2m6f, but he continued to impresses as a horse on the up. A sound jumper who travels well through his races, he looks certain to appreciate the extreme test of stamina, Dominic Elsworth’s mount has plenty in his favour, and is adaptable in terms of ground preference. His price has correctly contracted in the past week as it has become clear that he was going to make the cut, but he remains a viable proposition at the current odds of 20/1. There is plenty of worse value in the race and given that the horse is almost white, expect a lot of pound bets to be placed on him tomorrow as he bids to become the first grey to win the race in 55 years. Towards the head of the short list.

Shotgun Willy: R Guest A Tinkler 12 10-6
Was a shadow of the horse who defeated First Gold the Aon Chase as a novice, and was finished second in the Scottish National when last seen in the 2005 Midlands National and although he has moved stables the favourite for the race three years ago is impossible to recommend. One of the first horses of the 40 to disregard.

Just In Debt: M Todhunter A Dempsey 10 10-6
Not impossible to fancy for a place given that he finished ahead of many rivals when third in November’s Becher Chase, and has travelled well in several races over these formidable fences. Just made the cut on Thursday and has been rejected by his regular pilot Tony Dobbin. Inteestingly he has been campaigned in the Cross Country races this season, making little impression, but tomorrow could see him in a better light. You would have liked to see a little more sparkle behind Native Jack at the festival to be dogmatic, but the idiosyncratic nature of the course could prompt Martin Todhunter’s charge into an improved performance. He didn’t truly stay the trip last year when he finished ninth, and he is reluctantly opposed as not being quite good enough.

Conclusion

The claims of those at the head of the market are hard to ignore. Hedgehunter is the horse best in at the weights and proved his undoubted class when finishing second in the Gold Cup. Given a hard race then, it will be a phenomenal training performance if he can be produced in the same condition as when winning 12 months ago. He has the right man on his back and he will be a hard horse to knock out of the frame, even carrying 11-12. Clan Royal was in the process of running a huge race last year but being carried out and it is not hard to imagine the horse being in the same situation tomorrow. If McCoy can conserve enough of the 11yo’s energy, he is given one last chance in the biggest race of the season. The receipt of a stone may just tip the balance in his favour. In being the Grand National, arguments can be made for many of the contenders. Numbersixvalverde looks primed to run a big race, and his assured jumping when under pressure will stand him in good stead in this company. He just may lack the class of the two favourite, but if things go his way, Boots Madden will have the correct partner to pick up the pieces. At longer prices, Ross Comm promises to improve for the step up in distance and has to be seriously considered as well as Direct Access who has one of the best modern day National jockey on board. Haut de Gamme has proven himself over the fences and Juveniguer provides Trevor Hemmings with a formidable second string. Both Ross Comm and Haut de Gamme represent value at their current odds. For those who want real long shots, you could do a lot worse than Baron Windrush and Colonel Rayburn. The recommend punting strategy is as follows.

3pts win Clan Royal
1pt ew Ross Comm
1pt ew Haut de Gamme
1pt ew Direct Access

finnpark

wbailey wrote:

Finn, you have been tipping Ballycassidy all along. Now you say it needs a lot of luck to be placed. Why the change of mind?

Well I never said he was a sure thing. Its just the fact that there is a huge lack of confidence in him I think he may just be in it for the owners but it still doesn't explain why hes been entered in such high class races . I just wouldn't put too much on a horse like this but I still think its the best value in the race. Jack High may be a savor

Jak

My reasoning is simply that in the national I never look to make money from backing a winner as so much can happen (particularly if we get a bit of rain) that most horses have a shot. I tend to back 4 expected places (hope one wins) and back a rank outsider for a possible 5th place.

As has been mentioned from a few sources Ballycassidy fits the profile in all but form really - and at 100-1 it just caught me. I have scoured a range of sources and contacts for a good word on him, but have got little but a "hmm interesting choice" from people.

But then my betting since the gold cup - where I had a lot of luck primarily thanks to Kadoun 50-1 - has been just playing with a float I'd left in after I banked what I was happy with as profit. It's built up a bit and tomorrow is my equivalent of all in and - bar maybe fairyhouse - it all ends there for a while for me

JAK

finnpark

Jak wrote:

My reasoning is simply that in the national I never look to make money from backing a winner as so much can happen (particularly if we get a bit of rain) that most horses have a shot. I tend to back 4 expected places (hope one wins) and back a rank outsider for a possible 5th place.

As has been mentioned from a few sources Ballycassidy fits the profile in all but form really - and at 100-1 it just caught me. I have scoured a range of sources and contacts for a good word on him, but have got little but a "hmm interesting choice" from people.

But then my betting since the gold cup - where I had a lot of luck primarily thanks to Kadoun 50-1 - has been just playing with a float I'd left in after I banked what I was happy with as profit. It's built up a bit and tomorrow is my equivalent of all in and - bar maybe fairyhouse - it all ends there for a while for me

JAK

Fair enough. Hope he comes in for both of us although his form has been rubbish. COME ON BALLYCASSIDY!!!!!!!!!!

Crumbs

Great write-up, Morgans.

To paraphrase Will Ferrell in Old School, "That's the way you do it! That's the way you analyse form!"

jimmyboy

I dont know if this will make a difference but i thought I should still post it for those who are interest. paddy power has a 16/1 special that Irish Trained 1-2-3 in the Grand National . I think this will only come through if Clan Royal slips up or else falls

scojones

Garvivonnian is now 12/1. This is crazy, I grabbed it on Tuesday at 22/1. I thought it was 20s but I double checked the docket a few minutes ago. It should go off at 10s. I hate seeing this much support for something I'm on in such a big race. Maybe there is too much hype.

Nalced_irl

Im on:

Clan Royal W
Numbersixvalv' Place
Ballycassidy Place
HedgeHunter Place
Ross Com Place

Think Clan Royal will do it, Ross Com and Ballycassidy have nice EW value and id be surprised not to see Hedgehunter and Numbersixvalv' place also (or at least one of em).
What do people think of Asian Maze winning his one tomorrow? Tough field.

Rainy Day

Hi my first post on boards anyhow for the national i will be having 25e/w on these three:

Jack High 14-1: Simply because Ted Walsh is a bogey and if he's talking down his horse it's definitly in with a shout. Sorry if this offends any Ted fans.

Direct Access 25-1: I believe this horse has all the credentials of a national winner. If he gets around without falling guaranteed a place. Great e/w value

Puntal 66-1: My outsider for the race. One for the craic and if he performs first time back great. If not i'm sure he'll give value for money. Nevermind the
Geraghty factor.

BTW for anyone on Innox i don't think he'll last the trip. Anyhow good luck to all today God knows we all need a little help.

Oh yeah i got clan royal in the sweep for work that's why i'm not on him. Spread the wealth elsewhere.

Finally what do you guys think of Monte Cinto in the first e/w 12-1?

Healio

Im debating this at the moment:

40 runners, 40 can win 39 can come second = 1560 forecasts
1560 forecast @ 10 c = €156 or @ 5c = €78.
anywho, i would need 1560 to be the forecast dividend to break even.
Im just a bit scared that Clan royal and Hedgehunter will be the one two and pay €20 odd quid at most, leaving me with €2 or €1.

What do you think, worth the risk???

Pighead

Pigheads going for hedgehunter E/W again this year. Predictable selection but barring falls hes sure to be there or there abouts.

Neither of my my outside chances have made the frame(Sir Rembrandt and Dun Doire) so i'm gonna chance Silver Birch at 33-1 E/W. Has been out of sorts this season but still finished only a head behind Clan Royal a couple of months ago. Hopefully he'll give me a run.

5 Pts Each Way Hedgehunter
1 Pt Each Way Silver Birch
1 PT F/C Hedgehunter Silver Birch
1 PT F/C Hedgehunter Innox

Healio

Im debating this at the moment:

40 runners, 40 can win 39 can come second = 1560 forecasts
1560 forecast @ 10 c = €156 or @ 5c = €78.
anywho, i would need 1560 to be the forecast dividend to break even.
Im just a bit scared that Clan royal and Hedgehunter will be the one two and pay €20 odd quid at most, leaving me with €2 or €1.

What do you think, worth the risk???

i mite take out 5 or 10, to lessen the risk of losing loads.

TwistsAndTurns

Here goes!

Clan Royal only because AP is in great form and I backed it last year.
Eachway both Juveigneur and Numbersixvalverde.

A nice e/w bet on Numbersixvalverde.

Please Ruby leave someone else win!

chump

I'm on Silver Birch because I thought his odds would shorten nearer the off, but Ibacked him on the AntePost market and to lay any off I'd have to outlay a few hundred. So I've a win bet on him to let ride! What a waste really but cant afford to throw a few hundred on betfair.

Other choices I've had Cornish Rebel in my mind for a few weeks, so I'll be going EW.

And my 3rd choice I haven't decided yet...

Morgans

Crumbs wrote:

Great write-up, Morgans.

To paraphrase Will Ferrell in Old School, "That's the way you do it! That's the way you analyse form!"

Thanks Crumbs. I was right in thinking that there would be a few on here who would appreciate it. Or should that be few.

chump

Healio wrote:

Im debating this at the moment:

40 runners, 40 can win 39 can come second = 1560 forecasts
1560 forecast @ 10 c = €156 or @ 5c = €78.
anywho, i would need 1560 to be the forecast dividend to break even.
Im just a bit scared that Clan royal and Hedgehunter will be the one two and pay €20 odd quid at most, leaving me with €2 or €1.

What do you think, worth the risk???

i mite take out 5 or 10, to lessen the risk of losing loads.

Take out 10 and go for it... wil b interesting none theless

finnpark

Nalced_irl wrote:

Im on:

Clan Royal W
Numbersixvalv' Place
Ballycassidy Place
HedgeHunter Place
Ross Com Place

Think Clan Royal will do it, Ross Com and Ballycassidy have nice EW value and id be surprised not to see Hedgehunter and Numbersixvalv' place also (or at least one of em).
What do people think of Asian Maze winning his one tomorrow? Tough field.

I think Asian Maze can be done EW 9/2. Not much of a risk EW I think. It should be there at the end. Its a pitty there only 7 horses in 2nd race, think Accordian Etoile would be excellent EW bet at 5/1.

bassy

heres my 2 horses for the national:numbersixvalverde 10/1 ew
amberleigh house 66/1 ew nice price and has been there before would be value for money if he was placed.

BillyBoy

I'll be going for Innox, Ebony Light and Jack High. Good luck all!:D

ntlbell

howdy

Not much of a betting man meself and missus are gonna throw 100e at it today can anyone recomend some value bets we could make? i'd like to cover a few horses to make it a bit intresting.

finnpark

ntlbell wrote:

howdy

Not much of a betting man meself and missus are gonna throw 100e at it today can anyone recomend some value bets we could make? i'd like to cover a few horses to make it a bit intresting.

Jack High EW
Innox EW
Numbersixv... EW
Garvi....... EW

Hobart

ntlbell wrote:

howdy

Not much of a betting man meself and missus are gonna throw 100e at it today can anyone recomend some value bets we could make? i'd like to cover a few horses to make it a bit intresting.

I betting €100. I'm breaking it down like this:


Hedgehunter 40 win
Sir Oj 10 e/w
Inca Trail 10 e/w
Jack High 10 e/w

tk123

heeeheehee thanks the jock!!mmmmwaH!

kc66

On racingpost.co.uk there was a poll.
25% picked numbersixvalverde
Next highest was Clan Royal at 10%

gandalf

Just got 1,2 & 3 placed on Betfair

Always have a good National.

mike65

stuck a tenner on Innox! which was in off at the first!

Mike.

ntlbell

Ended up doing 50e E/W on Ballycassidy fecker gave me a heart attack

6ix

where did jack high go, couldnt watch it so just had radio but im just curious if he finished or not.

ntlbell

6ix wrote:

where did jack high go, couldnt watch it so just had radio but im just curious if he finished or not.

Fell early on

Ste05

Unlucky NTL, I had Hedgehunter, but as always lost overall, bloody horse racing. Gambling it's a mugs game

bohsman

Thanks Crumbs, nice e/w on No6val and Clan Royal

ntlbell

Ste05 wrote:

Unlucky NTL, I had Hedgehunter, but as always lost overall, bloody horse racing. Gambling it's a mugs game

Neighbours must think I've lost the fecking plot!!!

We taken over this forum now? fecking gamblers...

samo

any idea's what was 5th??

Ste05

ntlbell wrote:

Neighbours must think I've lost the fecking plot!!!

We taken over this forum now? fecking gamblers...

LOL, I'd say there were some shouts coming out of your sitting room.

P.S. The Poker Forum rule boards.ie