Shifty's Grand National Preview Part 1 of However Many It Takes

On Saturday, the biggest horse race in the UK, the Grand National, takes place, and after a disastrous Cheltenham festival, this writer will now have a crack at predicting the outcome at Aintree. Over the next few days, some of the horses that are running will be looked at, as well as a quick look at historical trends, and Shifty's tips for the race. One or two guest writers may also pop in with their say.

And they're off!

Madison Du Berlais- this horse is a particular favourite of Shifty's, having won him some money in the past (a 12/1 shot once upon a time, no less). His recent form is good, and he's a good jumper who likes to lead, therefore looking to avoid the carnage at the first few fences. Question marks over his stamina on such a long race, but looks good each-way value at 66/1 with William Hill

Ollie Magern- at 12 years old, getting on a bit now. Recent form hasn't been great, and therefore generally available quotes of 150/1 are probably about right. Unlikely to challenge

Silver Birch- won this race in 2007, but is now past his best at 13 years old. Doesn't look a potential winner on recent form, but can be counted on to make it round, although probably well short of a place. 66/1 with WIlliam Hill

Character Building- was impressive at Cheltenham (even though this writer wasn't), and is much fancied. Needs the right weather conditions and the right jockey on his back- much will depend if he is ridden by regualr jockey Dougie Costello, or if Barry Geraghty takes the ride. Currently available at 20/1 generally, but that could well change by raceday

My Will- was among the favourites last year, and delivered for each-way punters with 3rd place. Has been raced sparingly since then, so difficult to gauge where he really is. One thing we do know is that, unlike last year, he won't have Ruby Walsh on his back. Has drifted out to generally available 40/1, which is probably about right, as he is difficult to fancy strongly

Big Fella Thanks- My Will's loss looks like Big Fella Thanks' gain, as Ruby Walsh mounts this 8-year-old. Finished 6th last year, and won last time out at Newbury. Most bookies have him currently as the favourite, and rightly so. The Big Fella has a big chance of victory- totesport's 15/2 should be seriously considered