It turned out to be a classic renewal of the Grand National with a top class of field taking their chance at Aintree, it was a fine day on merseyside and as usual there was a fast gallop over the early fences. It was clear early on that Jason Maguire was happy to let Ballabriggs bowl along at the front of the race while another early leader was Majestic Concorde who was also going well over the first circuit.
Big Fella Thanks was staying close to the inside on the second circuit while Ballabriggs and Oscar Time were still towards the front after Majestic Concorde unseated his rider. The Midnight Club and Ruby Walsh made a mistake early on and although he looked dangerous on the second circuit they were hampered again and were left with no chance. What A Friend was pulled up three out leaving Ballabriggs and Oscar Time to fight it out over the last fence while Niche Market was also in the mix. It was Ballabriggs who took the advantage and he bravely held of a charge from Oscar Time who also ran a cracking race to win the National for Donald McCain.
1615 John Smith's Grand National Steeplechase
1. Ballabriggs (Jason Maguire) 14-1
2. Oscar Time (Sam Waley-Cohen) 14-1
3. Don't Push It (Tony McCoy) 9-1
4. State Of Play (Paul Moloney) 28-1
5. Niche Market (Harry Skelton) 16-1
40 ran
