The Grand Annual rarely fails to deliver a thrilling cavalry charge, and this year’s renewal shapes up as another fiercely competitive affair, with a strong pace forecast and plenty of unexposed chasers pitched into deep waters off workable marks.

Race Setup & Tactical Shape

Timeform’s strong pace forecast is key. There’s an abundance of early dash here — Western Zephyr, Gaelic Arc, Primoz, and possibly Dancing On My Own should all force the issue. It may well tee things up for a strong-travelling stalker who can settle in behind the speed and pick up the pieces late.

Pace Hint Note: Dancing On My Own could be caught out by this burn-up, while My Mate Mozzie may be well suited by a fast tempo and has already proven his ability to travel smoothly in a big field scenario.


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Strongest Contender – UNEXPECTED PARTY (11/2) – Dan & Harry Skelton

Skelton’s 2024 winner looks primed for a bold repeat bid. He’s 6lb higher now but Timeform’s analysis strongly suggests he’s still well treated. His recent Windsor run — shaping with quiet promise under considerate handling — screams “Festival prep”, and his previous course form is a huge asset.

TFIM rating 166 | Course winner | Cheltenham specialist

Trends Match: Age 10, OR 144, strong Skelton profile

Pace adaptable – ideal for tracking hot tempo

Tissue v3 fair odds: 4/1 | Market: 11/2 – still slight value


With his jumping slick and attitude never in question, Unexpected Party ticks every box from a trends, Timeform and tactical viewpoint.


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Big Value Each-Way – MIDNIGHT IT IS (16/1) – Gavin Cromwell / Sean Flanagan

Despite being slightly underwhelming on his last run (coughing post-race), Midnight It Is has a compelling profile at a double-figure price. His form behind The King Of Prs has worked out well, and he was previously strong through the line in a fast-run Fairyhouse handicap.

TFR 161 | BigRaceTrend tick for weight/pace profile

Rapid View positive on distance, pace and Cromwell stats

Tissue v3 fair odds: 10/1 | Market: 16/1 – significant value


If ridden with patience, he could be the one flying late when others tire.


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Dark Horse – JASKO DES DAMES (20/1) – De Bromhead/O’Keeffe

A lightly raced improver who shaped better than the form last time, Jasko Des Dames catches the eye under the surface. He has hit 3 BigRaceTrend factors, suggesting he’s well handicapped. Timeform’s ‘p’ rating flags untapped potential, and the form behind Ifiwerearichman was stronger than it looks.

TFR 162p | Trend profile positive

Unexposed at this trip/class

Tissue v3 odds: 14/1 | Market: 20/1 – under the radar


Don’t be surprised if he runs a huge race on only his fifth chase start.


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Others Noted

My Mate Mozzie (13/2) – Travelled like a dream last time, but is possibly at the ceiling of his mark. Tissue value neutral.

The King Of Prs (11/1) – Career-best win LTO; Cromwell’s second string but progressive. Tissue suggests he’s fairly priced.

Jazzy Matty (13/2) – Highly capable and well-handicapped, but possibly better in smaller fields or slightly further.

Primoz (16/1) – In great form but faces a class hike. Big field not guaranteed to suit his style.