Grand National 2019: TV star Chris Hughes gives Sun Racing his golden rules for backing a Grand National winner
TV pin-up and full-time heartthrob Chris Hughes may be more used to giving out dating advice than racing tips – but the sport of kings is where his heart truly lies.
The Love Island star is a fully-fledged Grand National fanatic – and he’s given Sun Racing his golden rules for backing the winner of the big race.
Trust your gut
It may not be the most scientific approach, but I always back the horse carrying my favourite number.
I was born on the 22nd of December and 22 has been my lucky charm through thick and thin.
I was screaming One For Arthur home when he stormed to Grand National victory in 2016 – all because of the number on his saddle.
A lot of people have different methods – some go for their favourite name or favourite silk – and I wouldn’t put you off either of them. You’ll only be kicking yourself if it wins!
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The price is right
Anything can win the Grand National and it remains almost as much of a lottery as it was 80 years ago.
For that reason this year’s favourite, Tiger Roll, is way too short a price at around the 7-2 mark.
I couldn’t back him – he’s got more weight on his back than last year and has to negotiate another 30 fences!
There have been plenty of upsets in the past – Aurora’s Encore at 66-1 and Mon Mome at 100-1 are just a couple of examples – and often it pays to be bold.
I’ll be plumping for something at juicy odds who’ll give me a good run for my money.
Jumping for joy
It may seem obvious, but you want a horse that can leap over the birch like it’s got springs in its hooves.
The fences are smaller than they used to be, but obstacles like Becher’s Brook and The Chair need a horse with nerves of steel and a flying leap to boot.
Try and steer clear of horses with more letters than numbers in their form figures (as it usually means they end up on the ground rather than in the race!).
And don’t be afraid of punting something that looks too small – often the meekest horse has the highest jump.