Who are the main players in Saturday’s Coral Welsh National?

Like many runners, questions remain over whether the eight-year-old can stay the trip. He’s run over 4m before but was soundly beaten into 4^th by 27l on that occasion. Heavy ground will help him, but after a nervy jumping performance in the Rehearsal Chase at Newcastle, it may pay to steer clear of the Irish-bred raider.

Chase the Spud

Chase the Spud is a runner who should be given serious consideration for the Welsh National. He saw off Saturday’s jolly to win the Midlands Grand National last term. And he restarted this campaign with a confident success at Haydock in November.

His experience over 4m could be crucial given the state of the ground. He has the staying power but will have to defy another 9lb rise to land his grandest prize to date.

Ask The Weatherman

A successful point-to-point racer, Ask The Weatherman has shown a touch of class over fences, too. Jack R Barber’s raider has won two out of three when chasing and most recently proved his worth over 3m at Exeter.

For a fancy that is proven over the longer distances and loves the ground, the son of Tamure makes for a tempting each-way shout.

Vicente

Rule out Vicente at your peril. Paul Nicholls’ nine-year-old is a two-time winner of the Scottish Grand National and on that basis cannot be discounted here. Track and trip will suit, although 11st12lb on his back is not ideal by any stretch of the imagination.

While victory may be slightly beyond his reach, the Coral News Team certainly think the French-bred raider can challenge for place claims at the very least.

Click here for the latest Coral Welsh Grand National odds. 

All Odds and Markets are correct as of the date of publishing.