Templegate NAPS Sir Alex Ferguson’s horse wins the big race on the first day of the Grand National Festival

TEMPLEGATE is looking to start the Grand National Festival with a bang thanks to some winners on Thursday.

He brings you choices in each race and his reasons for making them as he tries to set the bench for Saturday’s big race.

Check out his selection below and don’t forget that you can bet on a horse simply by clicking on his odds.

PROTECTORATE (2.55 Aintree, Nap)

He can take three out of three pursuit wins at Aintree. He won the manifesto easily at that meeting 12 months ago and has done very little wrong since.

He was a close second in the Paddy Power Gold Cup on the return before hammering his rivals by 25 lengths here in the Many Clouds Chase.

He was then an excellent third at the Cheltenham Gold Cup where he faded just a little up the hill. He’s only seven years old so has improved and coming back to this flat, fast track will give his best.

EPATANTE (3.30 Aintree, nb)

She looked back to her best form when she gave Honeysuckle a little scare in the Champion Hurdle.

She would have been a closer second if she hadn’t rattled the last flight before staying well to indicate this trip won’t be a problem.

She travels well and can take this nice prize with her.

ILIADE ALLEN (5.15 Aintree, treble)

She has moved from Nick Williams to Paul Nicholls since finishing just under second at Cheltenham on New Year’s Day at Cheltenham. She doesn’t need much improvement to hit for new connections on debut.

Tips from Templegate for each race on day one of the Grand National Festival

1.45 gin on lime

Class 3 winner who has had a break since the lucky win at Cheltenham.

2.20 Pied Piper

Nice third in Triumph Hurdle and should be suitable for this distance.

2.55 Protectorate (nap)

Cracking Gold Cup effort and loves it at Aintree.

3.30 Epatante (nb)

Second in the Champion Hurdle last time back to the top.

4.05 Jett

Loves this unique test and this trip is more appropriate.

4.40 before midnight

Another good run for Donny and trainer in top form.

5.15 Iliad Allen (Treble)

Good Second at Cheltenham in the last outing.

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