Free Aintree tips: six horses to back on day one of the Grand National festival

Thursday's best bets ranked in order of confidence by our top tipsters

Eyecatcher

Too Friendly (2.20 Aintree)

Really caught the eye finishing off a modest pace scenario in the Fred Winter latest and could well surprise a few on this step up to the highest grade.
Dave Orton

Ace tipster

Pic D'Orhy (1.45 Aintree)

Has improved significantly over fences this winter and produced his best effort yet when running on well to beat Millers Bank at Kempton last time. Paul Nicholls will have primed him for this race and further progress is likely.
Graeme Rodway

Speed figures

Pic D'Orhy (1.45 Aintree)

Got his act together to score gamely at Kempton six weeks ago and can make it four wins from seven starts this season.
Dave Edwards

Handicappers' nap

Clan Des Obeaux (2.55 Aintree)

Has not performed to his best in two runs to date this season, but bolted up in this race last year and, on that form, looks the one to beat if galvanised by first time blinkers.
Steve Mason

Dark horse

Gunsight Ridge (4.40 Aintree)

Highly consistent gelding who deserves credit for finishing third last time out after helping force a strong gallop from the outset. He's been targeted at this race since and arrives fresh.
Olly Eden

West Country

Ilovethenightlife (5.15 Aintree)

Caught the eye when a strong-travelling fourth on debut at Ascot. Beaten by inexperience but clearly has talent. May be a significant improver and well overpriced in an open race.
James Stevens

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