Our Duke Shortens Further For BoyleSports Irish Grand National

Thirty runners have been declared for the €500,000 BoyleSports Irish Grand National on Easter Monday at Fairyhouse and it’s the Jessica Harrington-trained Our Duke that heads the betting at 9/2.

Our Duke is by far the worst result in the antepost book, having been supported down from an initial introductory price of 14/1.

With the form that Jessica Harrington has her stable in and the confidence that Robbie Power is riding with we are taking no chances and are very keen to keep Our Duke on side.

Harry Fry’s Fletchers Flyer is Our Duke’s nearest rival in the betting at 8/1 and will be ridden by Noel Fehily. Gordon Elliott, who has yet to win the race, will be represented by ten runners with Noble Endeavor, at present, the shortest priced of his cavalry at 10/1.

Willie Mullins has yet to add the race to his bulking CV. The Clonsutton handler will be represented by three runners in the form of Haymount (14/1), who is the choice of Ruby Walsh, Arbre De Vie (20/1), who will be ridden by Paul Townend and Sambremont (25/1), who will be ridden by his nephew Danny.

Gigginstown House Stud have owned the winning horse for the past two renewals of the race and this year sees the maroon and white colours being carried by 14 out of the 30 runners.

Both previous winners will bid to win the race for a second time this year with last year’s winner Rogue Angel priced at 33/1 to retain the crown and 2015 winner Thunder And Roses priced at 25/1.

We’re offering 5/4 that Michael O’Leary wins the race for a third consecutive year.