Rathvinden can lead green sweep for second successive year at Randox Grand National

Ireland dominated last season’s Grand National and for the second successive year I reckon there will be a green sweep for the raiders from over the water, with an Irish first four led home by RATHVINDEN.

The 11-year-old, one of four entries for trainer Willie Mullins and the choice of his No 1 jockey Ruby Walsh, has the credentials you need to win the Grand National.

He has a touch of class and his win in the four-mile National Hunt Chase at last year’s Cheltenham Festival proves he has stamina for this marathon test.

Ireland dominated last year’s Grand National and they can do so again, led by Rathvinden

Rathvinden’s easy win in the Bobbyjo Chase at Fairyhouse in February was a perfect stepping stone to today’s challenge.

With Gordon Elliott-trained favourite Tiger Roll looking better than ever, he must be in the shake-up if he has a clear round in his bid to repeat last year’s win.

For the second season running, Tony Martin-trained Anibale Fly finished placed in the Cheltenham Gold Cup and this classy chaser can be placed in the National for a second season, too.

Mullins’ Pleasant Company — ninth in 2017 when a bad mistake at the 25th fence was costly, and second last year — raises his game at Aintree and should run another big race.   

Pleasant Company raises his game at Aintree and came second last year behind Tiger Roll