Gearing up for Grand National 2022: Who are the main contenders to win?
After the all-important weights were revealed last week, everyone is now wondering which of the Grand National contenders they should side with. However, Ascot’s meeting on the 19th of February provided an essential pointer in the form of the Swinley Chase Winner.
Fortescue, trained by Henry Daly, is definitely worth keeping an eye on as the Randox Health Grand National Festival at Aintree in April approaches fast. So, who are the contenders who may have the greatest odds of winning the Grand National 2022? Read on to find out more!
Fortescue
The first two in Haydock’s Grand National trial held on the 19th of February will not participate in this year’s Grand National at Aintree. Consequently, Swinley Chase provided more National clues. Henry Day’s Fortescue won the race. Chase stayed on firmly from second-last to beat Fiddlerontheroof, whose powder remained dry thanks to the Tizzards until the National weights were revealed last week.
Fortescue, who Hugh Nugent rode, could have done with the result before the weights were revealed. The horse was allotted ten stone in the National. This means that 25 horses on the top of Tiger Roll must drop out of the race for him to get a run.
The Galloping Bear
The Galloping Bear is a graduate of the British point-to-point scene together with his “inexperienced” trainer Ben Clarke. The genuine ground was rare this winter, but the Galloping Bear thrived on it to emerge triumphant in the William Hill Grand National Trial at Haydock.
Turning in, Bristol De Mai, a winner of three Betfair Chases but not a National contender this year after showing contempt for Aintree last April, looked destined to win the sixth race at Haydock. However, The Galloping Bear had other ideas. No distance or ground is too tough for him, so he ground De Mai down, going to the last, and emerged winner by seven lengths.
He is also the winner of the Surrey National over 3m5f on Lingfield heavy, making Haydock, a similar distance, something he could not fear.
Any Second Now
The Ted Walsh trained horse is another favorite for the Grand National 2022. The last time out, he emerged third. He had gone off at 15/2 but managing a podium finish in the race was considered a significant advantage given previous struggles over longer distances. Moreover, his last big win came in the 2019 Cheltenham Festival.
Snow Leopardess
After putting together a three-race winning streak, Snow Leopardess earned a place among the top contenders. One notable win came during the 14-strong race over some of the Grand National fences at Aintree in December. You should expect this horse to give the other top contenders a run for their money.
What is your favorite horse to win the Grand National? Are they featured in our lists?
