FULL LIST OF RUNNERS AINTREE GOOD GROUND

WELL THERE YOU GO - CLICK ON THE CARD YOU WILL SEE i HAVE HIGHLITED RUNNERS WHO HAVE CHANCES ON PREVIOUS WINNERS - SOME ARE OUTRAGEOUS PRICES AND DO NOT INCLUDE THE VERY TOP PRICED - GOOD LUCK ITS THE NATIONAL

The race produced the closest finish in many years with NEPTUNE COLLONGES getting up in the last stride to collar Sunnyhillboy, in the process becoming the first grey to win the race since Nicolaus Silver back in 1961. A top-class chaser at his best back in 2008-2009, winning three Grade 1s in Ireland and finishing in the frame in successive Gold Cups, Neptune Collonges had shown this seasonhe was still capable of running big races, being closely handicapped with Giles Cross on Haydock form. He was behind early but gradually crept into contention on the second circuit and galloped on stoutly up the run-in to just nose ahead on the line.A real star for connections, despite being overshadowed by stable companions Kauto Star and Denman, this was a fitting climax to his career, as his owner had announced beforehand that this would be his last race.

Sunnyhillboy was desperately unlucky to lose on the line, compounding a bad day for connections. He had returned to form when beating Becauseicouldntsee in the Kim Muir at Cheltenham, was never far away and was produced seemingly perfectly by Richie McLernon to lead jumping the last fence. However, after going a couple of lengths clear the gelding began to falter in the last 100 yards and was caught in the shadow of the post. This was a brave effort though and he deserves the chance for compensation next season.

Seabass, a progressive chaser who had won his last six starts, was backed in to favouritism despite having yet to win beyond 2m6f. However, he stayed the trip really well, having been up with the pace throughout, and only weakened from the elbow. It was a fine ride fromKatie Walsh, who achieved the best placing of any female rider to complete the course.