The whole nature of the Randox Grand National (Aintree, tomorrow 4 p.m.) has changed significantly in recent years and it is not just about the fences becoming smaller and safer. A race that once favoured horses below 11 stone in the weights now favours the classier horses that are carrying more than 11 stone.

Here are just two statistics that rather prove that point. In 2005, Hedgehunter became the first horse since Corbiere 22 years earlier to carry more than 11 stone to victory in this famous, marathon handicap chase.

However, in the last two years of the race, since the maximum number of runners was reduced from 40 to 34, only one horse has finished in the first four with less than 11 stone. That dubious honour goes to Iroko, who was fourth last year carrying 10 stone 11 lbs but who has a weight of 11 stone 1 lbs tomorrow.

There are any number of dangers tomorrow

There are any number of dangers tomorrow

I have already put up GRANGECLARE WEST to win only at 10-1 for the race Non Runner No Bet (NRNB). My other NRNB ante-post each-way bet was on Now Is The Hour at 33-1, but he was ruled out for the season with an injury earlier this week. There was no harm to the bank balance so onwards and upwards with another stab at the winner.

MONTY’S STAR, who will carry 11 stone 3 lbs tomorrow, looks to have been aimed at this race all season. His overall form is just below that needed to win a Grade 1 race but he is a sound jumper and he has some solid form over chases from the past three seasons.

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