Sir Alex Ferguson’s Grand National Prospects
Sir Alex Ferguson is not just active in one sporting arena, but rather two. In addition to his interests, he also owns stakes in a number of horses. Previously he had successes with his horses and has even had a dispute or two with key industry players in true Fergie fashion. A few years ago he was embroiled in legal proceeding against JP McManus and John Magnier.
In this year’s Grand National his hopes reside with two horses: What A Friend and Harry The Viking – he’s a part-owner of both. It is anticipated that jockey Sam Thomas will be able to return from injury in time to ride one of these horses, although which is unclear at this point. Sam has had previous successes riding Fergie’s horses, so perhaps this is another dream-team in the making. Sam Thomas has also had success without Fergie’s horses, having previously rode to victory in the 2008 Cheltenham Gold Cup.
Sir Alex Ferguson will be representing British horses when his pair run at Aintree. Harry The Viking has lower odds than his stable mate, coming in at around 40/1. He is a little on the light side, weighing in at 10-06, and had a dire display at Cheltenham. Experience is also lacking with Harry The Viking aged just eight and he just hasn’t raced at the same level as 2011. However, 2012 Grand National-winning trainer Paul Nicholls is his trainer, so it remains to be seen whether he can inspire a performance in Harry The Viking. It isn’t a clear picture for the prospects of this horse, that being said he isn’t remotely close to being considered a frontrunner.
What A Friend is another trained by Paul Nichols, so at least there is assurance over training pedigree. In terms of experience and physicality, What A Friend certainly measure up on paper. Weight may be a little on the high side at 11-09 but he his age of ten is ideal for trying to be a National winner (most winning horses are either ten or 11-years-old at the Grand National). What A Friend has not been close to his glory days back in the 2008/09 season where he won a number of races. Form is the question mark that defines What A Friend entering the Grand National and that is reflected in the average odds of 50/1. Sir Alex Ferguson has an infinitely better shot at winning the Premier League this year.
Grand National Betting
Did you know that Paddy Power pay out to an extra place on each way bets, meaning that if your horse comes in as one of the first five past the post rather than the first four that most other bookies pay out for you still win! This is a great way to bet particularly on a race such as the Grand National which frequently ends with an unpredictable outcome. You can also claim a £20 free bet when you Place your first bet of £20 with Paddy Power over the 3 day festival at Aintree, giving you even more to bet with come Grand National Day!
