5:00 Aintree Tips

This keen-going front runner may have lost his unbeaten record when only 3rd in the Champion Bumper at Cheltenham last time, but that form makes him the one to beat. This track should suit him better given his style of racing.

The Cheltenham third, Bass Hunter, is the justifiable favorite here but may have to play second fiddle to Look Me. Willie Mullins avoided the Festival with him, presumably with this race in mind. He won his only race for the trainer in easy fashion and can progress to take this.

Looked impressive when winning eased down by six lengths at Hereford last month. That was only his second start for Emma Lavelle and he has won on both occasions. What made the Hereford success even more eye-catching was the fact it was after a 477-day break. Sure to have come on for that and looks overpriced.

No fitness problems for the 5yo. Two wins from two in bumper races this year. Impressive winner last time out. He travelled strongly and pulled 11L clear in the final furlong when asked for his effort. It was a 15-runner contest and he was carrying a 7 lb penalty. Good RPR rating posted. This Grade 2 race is stronger, but he is progressing and more improvement is possible after twelve weeks off the track.

THE PERFECT POET is well worth a try in this higher grade, who is open to improvement after justified support in decisive fashion when beating Nimba & 3 others at Fontwell 4 weeks ago. Jockey Callum Pritchard has won once in one ride (100%) when aboard. Every chance.

Risky Obsession completely bombed out last time at Newbury, but there must have been something amiss there. He was very impressive the time before that at Warwick, and this return to better ground should help.

With an engaging and forward-looking profile, he made a strong impression, finishing closely on his debut at the 2025 Irish Grand National. Having previously triumphed at Fairyhouse on challenging heavy ground, he demonstrates solid form. Even with current long odds of 33/1, his past success on the track positions him as a genuine contender.

Although Thelastmanfrompenr has just run once, he would do well at Kelso, taking up the running near the line. He could handle this rise in class and the faster going at Aintree, with Sean Bowen booked to ride.

In the first-time hood & tongue-strap combination, BARACHIEL may cause a massive shock after running 2nd to Arms Park on belated return at Taunton 2½ weeks ago. Jockey Richard Dunne has placed once in one ride (100%) when aboard. Lively outsider.