Strongest Contender: LIFETIME AMBITION (TFR 142)

No stranger to these fences, having run well in the 2023 Grand National, and has since looked a class above in the hunters’ sphere. He was a strong-finishing second in the Champion Hunters Chase at Punchestown and arrives off back-to-back pointing wins.

> Timeform Note: “Accurate jumper who has taken well to these fences… strong stayer and classy profile for this grade.”



The extreme pace forecast plays right into his hands. If the leaders blow each other up, he could sweep past them late.


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Main Dangers:

1. FAMOUS CLERMONT (TFR 141)
Won this last year, handles the track beautifully, and oozes enthusiasm for the game. But the concern is pace: he likes to go forward and may be caught up in the early burn-up. That said, if he can conserve energy early, he’s a danger.

> Timeform Note: “Typically enthusiastic… thrives around here but vulnerable if pace collapses.”



2. MY DROGO (TFR 139)
The most naturally talented horse in the field based on historic ratings. Won his hunter debut at Haydock with style and has the class edge. But he’s fragile and has only recently re-emerged after long spells off.

> Timeform Note: “Very smart at his peak… well suited to this test if he stands up.”



3. JOKER DE MAI (TFR 138)
Demolished a Leicester field last time and is clearly thriving. Still only 6, but has already shown a sharp turn of foot and could go well if he handles the fences.

> Timeform Note: “May prove best short of 21f, but if he gets home, he’s in this.”




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Others to Watch:

ANNAMIX: Third in this race last year and back with Willie Mullins. Can go well again, though not obviously in top form.

BENNYS KING: Second in this the last two years, 14 now but still clings to plenty of ability.

MILAN FORTH: Young and unexposed with two easy wins in Ireland — represents a progressive threat.

JET PLANE / FRERE D’ARMES / PERCUSSION: Reliable types who could go well if avoiding the early scrimmaging.



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Pace & Setup:

Forecast: Extreme pace
That’s key — it hurts front-runners like Famous Clermont and Autonomous Cloud, while boosting closers like Lifetime Ambition, My Drogo, and Eva’s Oskar. Expect early fireworks, but stamina and jumping class will win out.


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Verdict:

> 1st – LIFETIME AMBITION (everything screams “set for this”)
2nd – MY DROGO (the class act — if he stays upright, huge danger)
3rd – FAMOUS CLERMONT (loves this race, could hang on for a place)
Best Outsider – MILAN FORTH (young legs, could come late)