I was so lucky to win the Irish Grand National on Thunder And Roses in 2015 and it’s a race that has a special place in my heart.

Irish Grand National (17:00)

If I could ride one in this year’s race it would be Panda Boy , who is trained by Martin Brassil.

He fell at Leopardstown last time but was only narrowly beaten in a blanket finish there at Christmas and looks a chaser on the up. He has the right profile for this race.

Ricky Doyle won this race two years ago on Freewheelin Dylan and looks to have another good chance this year – good luck to him!

Rest of Monday’s card

The 2:40 is a Grade 2 Juvenile Hurdle were I really like the look of Gust Of Wind . He ran well in the Triumph Hurdle – he travelled and looked the winner for a long way, but just got outpaced from the last. I expect he’ll run well again for Sean O’Keeffe.

Cardatharla is a horse who has caught my eye this year. He’s come along steadily and is starting to get the hang of the game now. He’s got the good Aidan Kelly on his back claiming 7lb, which is a huge advantage (15:15).

It’s great to see Monkfish back after two years off. Whether he can win this after such a long lay-off, I don’t know, but he’s much the best horse in the race and I’m excited to see him back in the 15:50.

Easy Game won this race last year and has been in savage form this year, too. He’s the one to beat, that’s for sure (16:20).

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