Our Aintree racing tips cover all 8 races on the card today, Friday 15th May 2026. The action gets underway at 16:35 and runs through to 20:40, with going reported as Chase 5.9, hurdle 6.2) (watering) (Good (goingstick).
A few names jump off the page from a course-form perspective. My Bobby Dazzler boasts a 50% strike rate from 6 runs at the track, William Shanahan has been in fine form here with 2 wins from 3 rides, James Owen’s yard sends out runners with a 50% strike rate at this venue. Below you’ll find race-by-race breakdowns with our top selections, live odds and tipster picks.
Tipster Performance at Aintree
Here’s how the leading tipsters have fared at Aintree over the last two years (minimum 10 selections):
| Tipster | Source | Selections | Wins | Win % | Place % |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mercury | Daily Post | 10 | 3 | 30% | 80% |
| RP Ratings | Racing Post | 11 | 3 | 27.27% | 63.64% |
| The Brigadier | punterslounge.com | 11 | 2 | 18.18% | 54.55% |
| Ben Morgan | Racing Ahead | 11 | 2 | 18.18% | 63.64% |
| Karl Hedley | Irish Post | 12 | 2 | 16.67% | 66.67% |
16:35 – Inkerman London Novices’ Hurdle (GBB Race)
Race Details: 2m | Class 4 | Going: Chase 5.9, hurdle 6.2) (watering) (Good (goingstick) | | jumps
This looks a fairly thin six-runner novice where the market has probably got the main shape right. Road To Wembley sets the standard on what we know after a bumper win and a solid start over hurdles, while Maskarvel brings the most established hurdle profile and should make this a proper test. Into Battle is less exposed than most and could easily step forward again, so there is some depth to the places, but the overall level is nothing out of the ordinary for the grade. Jet Renegade has bits and pieces of form without screaming imminent improvement, while Phantom Gold and Red Nile look up against it on the figures available. In a small field like this, tactical speed and clean jumping may count for plenty.
Top Selections
1. Road To Wembley – 10/11 with Bet365
Jockey: Sean Bowen | Trainer: Olly Murphy | Form: 21- | Rating: 124 | Topspeed: 106
He is short enough, but there are good reasons for that. A mark of 124 is the best in the field, his Topspeed figure of 106 is comfortably the strongest on offer, and that 2-1 profile suggests a horse still going the right way rather than one already exposed. Olly Murphy does well with these novice types and Sean Bowen is exactly the rider you want in a race that could turn tactical. The obvious angle is that he has a touch more class than these and, if his jumping holds up under pressure, he should simply prove too sharp over this two miles. At 10/11, he is no giveaway, but he is the one to beat.
Bet: WIN
2. Into Battle – 9/2 with Bet365
Jockey: Ciaran Gethings | Trainer: Robert Stephens | Form: 02- | Rating: 122 | Topspeed: 89
The each-way case rests on potential more than polish, but in this company that is enough to make him interesting. He has only had the two runs, his rating of 122 says he is not miles behind the favourite on bare ability, and there is every chance he can improve again with experience. The market has him behind the front pair, which is fair, but 9/2 still appeals as a workable each-way punt in a race lacking depth. Ciaran Gethings is a capable judge of pace and if Into Battle can travel handily without wasting energy, he looks the one most likely to pick up the pieces if Road To Wembley underperforms or Maskarvel finds one too strong again.
Bet: EACH-WAY
Betting Strategy
Road To Wembley is the percentage call and makes most appeal as the win bet given his superior figures and scope to improve again. Into Battle is the each-way alternative at 9/2 in a race where only a few make serious appeal. Maskarvel is the obvious danger after a string of solid efforts, but he is starting to look a touch vulnerable to a more progressive sort.
Live Odds Comparison
| Horse | Bet365 | Betfair | Paddy Power | Sky Bet | William Hill | Best |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Road To Wembley | 10/11 | 10/11 | 10/11 | 10/11 | 10/11 | 10/11 (Bet365) |
| Into Battle | 9/2 | 18/5 | 4/1 | 4/1 | 4/1 | 9/2 (Bet365) |
| Jet Renegade | 14/1 | 8/1 | 9/1 | 9/1 | 11/1 | 14/1 (Bet365) |
| Maskarvel | 2/1 | 2/1 | 2/1 | 2/1 | 2/1 | 2/1 (Bet365) |
| Phantom Gold | 80/1 | 66/1 | 66/1 | 66/1 | 80/1 | 80/1 (Bet365) |
| Red Nile | 33/1 | 28/1 | 33/1 | 33/1 | 33/1 | 33/1 (Bet365) |
17:10 – Ha Civils Franny Blennerhassett Memorial Mares’ Handicap Hurdle
Race Details: 2m 4f | Class 4 | Going: Chase 5.9, hurdle 6.2) (watering) (Good (goingstick) | | jumps
This looks a competitive little mares’ handicap rather than a deep one, and the market has understandably latched on to the upwardly mobile pair Atlantic City and Mermaids Cave. Atlantic City arrives after getting off the mark and still has the look of a 5yo with more to offer, while Mermaids Cave comes here on the back of a career-best and brings the best topspeed figure in the line-up. Masked Dance is solid enough but may be vulnerable to something less exposed, and My Chiquita has the class to get involved if fully wound up after a break. In a race like this, tactical speed and a smooth passage will count for plenty, because there isn’t masses between them on official figures and several arrive with plausible claims.
Top Selections
1. Atlantic City – 11/4 with Betfair
Jockey: Sean Bowen | Trainer: Olly Murphy | Form: 33421- | Rating: 117 | Topspeed: 107
Atlantic City is the one I want on side. She has been heading the right way all season, her form figures reading 33421-, and that latest win suggested things are clicking now rather than her merely cashing in on a weak race. An opening mark in the high teens would not have looked harsh for a mare of her profile, so 117 still gives her room to manoeuvre, especially as she is one of the youngest in the field at five. Sean Bowen is an eye-catching booking in a race where sharp positioning matters, and 11/4 is fair rather than flashy for a mare who looks progressive. Bet: WIN
Bet: WIN
2. My Chiquita – 8/1 with Bet365
Jockey: Leah Noreci | Trainer: James Moffatt | Form: 21/22- | Rating: 124 | Topspeed: 112
My Chiquita makes plenty of each-way appeal in an eight-runner race with three places on offer. She is the top-rated mare in the field on 124 and her 21/22- sequence tells you she was holding her form well before going away. There is a fair chance this trip and a sound surface will suit, and she does not need to improve dramatically to be involved if returning in the same heart. The absence is the obvious question, but James Moffatt’s mare has a touch more substance to her profile than some of these. At 8/1, she looks the value play against shorter-priced rivals with less established handicap form. Bet: EACH-WAY
Bet: EACH-WAY
Betting Strategy
Atlantic City is the win bet, as she looks the likely improver and may still be ahead of the assessor. My Chiquita is the each-way option at a bigger price, with her rating and previous consistency making her hard to dismiss. Mermaids Cave is the obvious danger after her latest win, while Masked Dance is solid enough if you want one for the exotics.
Live Odds Comparison
| Horse | Bet365 | Betfair | Paddy Power | Sky Bet | William Hill | Best |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| My Chiquita | 8/1 | 7/1 | 15/2 | 15/2 | 8/1 | 8/1 (Bet365) |
| Masked Dance | 4/1 | 5/1 | 4/1 | 7/2 | 4/1 | 5/1 (Betfair) |
| Magical Maggie | 7/1 | 5/1 | 13/2 | 13/2 | 7/1 | 7/1 (Bet365) |
| Mermaids Cave | 3/1 | 9/4 | 5/2 | 5/2 | 11/4 | 3/1 (Bet365) |
| Atlantic City | 5/2 | 11/4 | 11/4 | 11/4 | 11/4 | 11/4 (Betfair) |
| Roaring Home | 5/1 | 4/1 | 9/2 | 9/2 | 5/1 | 5/1 (Bet365) |
| I C U In My Dreams | 25/1 | 16/1 | 20/1 | 18/1 | 22/1 | 25/1 (Bet365) |
| Golden Glance | 33/1 | 28/1 | 28/1 | 28/1 | 28/1 | 33/1 (Bet365) |
17:45 – #hameansmore Handicap Chase (GBB Race)
Race Details: 2m 3f | Class 3 | Going: Chase 5.9, hurdle 6.2) (watering) (Good (goingstick) | | jumps
This looks a proper little handicap rather than a messy end-of-card scramble, with several arriving in form and not much between the principals on official figures. Southoftheborder heads the market after a solid sequence, while Genois has been admirably consistent and again looks sure to give his running. My Noble Lord is the intriguing one as a 5yo in older-horse company after scoring last time, and Parisencore is another who comes here off a win and could have more to offer over fences. At the other end, old hands like The Flier Begley and Coastguard Station are capable on their day but need things to fall right. In truth, it is a competitive Class 3 chase, but not an impossible puzzle if you want to side with the more progressive profiles.
Top Selections
1. Southoftheborder – 7/2 with Bet365
Jockey: Brendan Powell | Trainer: Henrietta C Knight | Form: 33512- | Rating: 137 | Topspeed: 128
He makes plenty of appeal in a race where a few of these look exposed enough from their current marks. Southoftheborder signed off last term with a win followed by a good second, and that sequence suggests he is holding his form very well. Carrying just 156, he gets a handy pull at the weights with some of his main market rivals despite matching them closely on rating, and his topspeed figure says he has the engine for this test. Brendan Powell is a strong booking for a horse who should travel and jump into this nicely, and 7/2 looks fair rather than cramped in a field of this depth. Bet type: WIN
Bet: WIN
2. My Noble Lord – 13/2 with Paddy Power
Jockey: Toby Wynne | Trainer: Oliver Greenall & Josh Guerriero | Form: 41561- | Rating: 138 | Topspeed: 123
He is the one I would want onside at a slightly bigger price because there may still be a bit of upside here. A 5yo taking on older handicappers is always worth a second look in this sort of race, and My Noble Lord did his job well when winning on his latest start. The mark of 138 asks another question, but he is not burdened with top weight and his profile is much less exposed than plenty of these battle-hardened rivals. Toby Wynne knows how to get one into a rhythm, and if this turns tactical or becomes a jumping test, youth could be a real asset. At 13/2, he looks a perfectly respectable each-way punt. Bet type: EACH-WAY
Bet: EACH-WAY
Betting Strategy
Southoftheborder is the win play because he brings the most convincing recent form and a workable racing weight. For an each-way option in a 9-runner race paying three places, My Noble Lord appeals as the progressive alternative at a more attractive price. Genois is the obvious danger if reproducing his usual level, while Parisencore also enters calculations after his latest success.
Live Odds Comparison
| Horse | Bet365 | Betfair | Paddy Power | Sky Bet | William Hill | Best |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Flier Begley | 10/1 | 9/1 | 10/1 | 10/1 | 10/1 | 10/1 (Bet365) |
| Genois | 4/1 | 7/2 | 7/2 | 7/2 | 7/2 | 4/1 (Bet365) |
| Parisencore | 5/1 | 9/2 | 9/2 | 9/2 | 9/2 | 5/1 (Bet365) |
| Coastguard Station | 11/1 | 11/1 | 11/1 | 10/1 | 11/1 | 11/1 (Bet365) |
| My Noble Lord | 9/2 | 9/2 | 13/2 | 13/2 | 11/2 | 13/2 (Paddy Power) |
| Breizh River | 11/2 | 6/1 | 13/2 | 13/2 | 6/1 | 13/2 (Paddy Power) |
| Fringill Dike | 10/1 | 9/1 | 9/1 | 9/1 | 9/1 | 10/1 (Bet365) |
| Southoftheborder | 7/2 | 5/2 | 11/4 | 11/4 | 3/1 | 7/2 (Bet365) |
Tipster Selections
| Tipster | Selection |
|---|---|
| Dean Kilbryde | Genois |
18:20 – Hatfields Jaguar Land Rover Handicap Hurdle
Race Details: 2m 4f | Class 3 | Going: Chase 5.9, hurdle 6.2) (watering) (Good (goingstick) | | jumps
This is a proper spring handicap rather than a gift for punters, with several carrying solid enough marks and a few arriving with questions to answer. Ike Sport sets the standard in the market after a string of near-misses, while Smokeringinthedark looks the type who still has a bit more to offer as a 6yo. Fingal’s Hill is admirably consistent and Brewin’upastorm still retains plenty of ability, but both are exposed enough off their current figures. Static is interesting back from a disappointing finish to last term, and Lightningupourdays has a fighting chance if building on his comeback. Overall, it looks competitive without being especially deep, and I’d rather side with the younger legs than some of the familiar, high-mileage names at the top of the weights.
Top Selections
1. Ike Sport – 10/3 with Bet365
Jockey: Harry Atkins | Trainer: Neil Mulholland | Form: 26692- | Rating: 143 | Topspeed: 130
He has been knocking on the door in races of this nature and there was no disgrace at all in signing off with another placed effort. Ike Sport is beginning to look a little expensive to follow, but this does not look a stronger race than the ones he has been contesting and his mark has not got away from him. The 2m4f trip on decent ground should suit, and Neil Mulholland has another live one in the field which only underlines the stable’s hand. At 10/3 he is no giveaway, but he is still the one with the fewest holes in his profile. Bet type: WIN.
Bet: WIN
2. Smokeringinthedark – 9/2 with Bet365
Jockey: Danny McMenamin | Trainer: Nicky Richards | Form: 72512- | Rating: 139 | Topspeed: 118
Smokeringinthedark appeals as the each-way play because he still looks a progressive sort in a race where plenty of these have shown most of their hand. A 6yo from the Nicky Richards yard, he finished last season with form figures that suggest he is holding his level well and possibly still edging forward. The mark of 139 looks workable, especially with no huge weight burden, and this intermediate trip should be right in his comfort zone on good ground. Danny McMenamin is a positive booking for a horse who ought to travel and give himself every chance. At 9/2, he makes plenty of each-way appeal. Bet type: EACH-WAY.
Bet: EACH-WAY
Betting Strategy
Ike Sport is the percentage call and makes most appeal as the win bet given his consistency at this level. For an each-way punt, Smokeringinthedark is the more interesting angle, with a touch more upside than several of these exposed handicappers. Fingal’s Hill is the obvious danger if running to his usual level, while Static could easily bounce back if forgiven his latest run.
Live Odds Comparison
| Horse | Bet365 | Betfair | Paddy Power | Sky Bet | William Hill | Best |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rambo T | 17/2 | 9/1 | 9/1 | 8/1 | 17/2 | 9/1 (Betfair) |
| Ike Sport | 10/3 | 3/1 | 3/1 | 3/1 | 3/1 | 10/3 (Bet365) |
| Last Kingdom | 20/1 | 33/1 | 33/1 | 25/1 | 25/1 | 33/1 (Betfair) |
| Static | 8/1 | 9/1 | 8/1 | 15/2 | 8/1 | 9/1 (Betfair) |
| Smokeringinthedark | 9/2 | 4/1 | 9/2 | 4/1 | 9/2 | 9/2 (Bet365) |
| Luttrell Lad | 18/1 | 16/1 | 18/1 | 16/1 | 16/1 | 18/1 (Bet365) |
| Lightningupourdays | 17/2 | 15/2 | 17/2 | 15/2 | 17/2 | 17/2 (Bet365) |
| El Galactico | 14/1 | 15/2 | 15/2 | 13/2 | 9/1 | 14/1 (Bet365) |
| Break Point | 14/1 | 18/1 | 18/1 | 16/1 | 16/1 | 18/1 (Betfair) |
Tipster Selections
| Tipster | Selection |
|---|---|
| West Country | Ike Sport |
18:55 – Huyton Asphalt Franny Blennerhassett Memorial Handicap Chase (GBB Race)
Race Details: 3m | Class 3 | Going: Chase 5.9, hurdle 6.2) (watering) (Good (goingstick) | | jumps
This is a proper little staying handicap rather than a throwaway end-of-card chase, and there are several with realistic claims. Calimystic heads the market after back-to-back wins and is the obvious one to beat if Nicky Henderson has him ready after a break, but he is giving weight away in a race where a few unexposed or well-treated rivals lurk lower down. Bumpy Evans has the class to figure if none the worse for that latest non-completion, while Jacks Parrot and Aboutdamntime arrive with solid, recent handicap form and look the sort to be involved throughout. My Bobby Dazzler is another with a feather weight and enough recent substance to make things interesting. It looks competitive rather than deep, and getting the pace call right could be everything over this 3m.
Top Selections
1. Calimystic – 5/2 with Paddy Power
Jockey: Nico de Boinville | Trainer: Nicky Henderson | Form: 1P/11- | Rating: 133 | Topspeed: 118
He is the percentage call. Those two wins at the end of last season marked him down as a progressive staying chaser, and a mark of 133 does not look harsh if he has more to give over fences. Nico de Boinville is an eye-catching booking around here and Henderson does not waste many trips to Aintree for races like this. The slight concern is obvious enough: he is back from a break and shoulders top weight in a race with depth in the middle ranks. Even so, his profile is stronger than most and 5/2 is fair rather than cramped if he returns in the same mood. Bet: WIN
2. Jacks Parrot – 13/2 with Bet365
Jockey: Toby Wynne | Trainer: Oliver Greenall & Josh Guerriero | Form: 43243- | Rating: 134 | Topspeed: 126
He is not hiding from the assessor, but there is a lot to like about his consistency and his ability to run to a solid level in this sort of race. The bare form figures do not scream future star, yet they do tell you he turns up and gives himself every chance, and his topspeed of 126 is among the best on offer here. From 159lb, he is nicely positioned against some of the classier but less straightforward types above him. At 13/2 he makes plenty of each-way appeal in a 10-runner handicap because he looks far more likely than most to run his race and be thereabouts late on. Bet: EACH-WAY
Betting Strategy
Calimystic is the win play because he has the most persuasive profile and still looks capable of better over fences. Jacks Parrot is the each-way alternative at a workable price, especially for those wanting something a touch safer in the place market. The obvious dangers are Bumpy Evans if bouncing back and Aboutdamntime, who is another on an upward curve.
Live Odds Comparison
| Horse | Bet365 | Betfair | Paddy Power | Sky Bet | William Hill | Best |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Calimystic | 2/1 | 2/1 | 5/2 | 2/1 | 9/4 | 5/2 (Paddy Power) |
| Loughderg Rocco | 7/1 | 15/2 | 8/1 | 7/1 | 13/2 | 8/1 (Paddy Power) |
| Erne River | 18/1 | 14/1 | 18/1 | 16/1 | 18/1 | 18/1 (Bet365) |
| Fortunedefortunata | 40/1 | 33/1 | 40/1 | 33/1 | 40/1 | 40/1 (Bet365) |
| Bumpy Evans | 13/2 | 9/2 | 7/2 | 4/1 | 9/2 | 13/2 (Bet365) |
| Regarde | 17/2 | 11/1 | 12/1 | 10/1 | 17/2 | 12/1 (Paddy Power) |
| Jacks Parrot | 13/2 | 13/2 | 13/2 | 6/1 | 13/2 | 13/2 (Bet365) |
| Aboutdamntime | 13/2 | 15/2 | 15/2 | 13/2 | 7/1 | 15/2 (Betfair) |
| My Bobby Dazzler | 13/2 | 6/1 | 11/2 | 11/2 | 6/1 | 13/2 (Bet365) |
| Taxus Baccata | 12/1 | 9/1 | 17/2 | 15/2 | 9/1 | 12/1 (Bet365) |
Tipster Selections
| Tipster | Selection |
|---|---|
| Ratings Hub | Calimystic |
19:30 – Mental Health Awareness Week Handicap Hurdle (Div I)
Race Details: 2m | Class 4 | Going: Chase 5.9, hurdle 6.2) (watering) (Good (goingstick) | | jumps
This looks a competitive little 2m handicap rather than a deep one, and there are several with plausible cases if you squint hard enough. Jamada arrives off a win and is an obvious player for the in-form Olly Murphy yard, while Land Of Punt has the profile of a 5yo who can still edge forward in this sphere. Spartan Times is another progressive sort after scoring on his return, but a 9lb rise asks a fresh question. Juan Bermudez is reliable enough at this level and should give his running, whereas Lively Citizen and Book Of Secrets are older hands who have bits of form that make them dangerous if they bounce back. All told, it feels like a race where recent momentum and a workable mark will matter most.
Top Selections
1. Land Of Punt – 5/1 with Bet365
Jockey: Stan Sheppard | Trainer: Tom Lacey | Form: 9533- | Rating: 113 | Topspeed: 95
Land Of Punt is the one I like most because he makes plenty of sense in a race lacking a standout. His novice form tailed into a pair of respectable thirds before the break, and this mark of 113 looks fair enough for a 5yo who should have more to offer now moving into handicaps with a bit more experience behind him. Tom Lacey does well with this type and Stan Sheppard is a solid booking in these races. He gets in here with 11st 5lb, receives weight from some of the more obvious market rivals, and the available 5/1 appeals in a contest where upside is worth siding with. Bet: WIN
Bet: WIN
2. Book Of Secrets – 12/1 with Paddy Power
Jockey: Leah Noreci | Trainer: James Moffatt | Form: 78774- | Rating: 116 | Topspeed: 113
Book Of Secrets is not the easiest horse to trust, but he is exactly the sort worth a second look in a race like this. His recent form figures are uninspiring on the face of it, yet he has been running off higher marks and that Topspeed figure of 113 jumps off the page in this field. Now down to 116 and carrying only 11st 3lb, he is becoming dangerously well treated if able to reproduce anything like his better efforts. James Moffatt’s runners can pop up when the market is cool on them, and at 12/1 with three places on offer he looks a perfectly fair each-way punt against more fashionable names. Bet: EACH-WAY
Bet: EACH-WAY
Betting Strategy
Land Of Punt is the win play at around 5/1, chiefly because he has the right blend of scope and a workable opening handicap mark. For an each-way alternative, Book Of Secrets makes appeal at 12/1 as a well-handicapped type with enough back-class to nick a place. Jamada is the obvious danger after that latest success, while Spartan Times is respected despite the rise.
Live Odds Comparison
| Horse | Bet365 | Betfair | Paddy Power | Sky Bet | William Hill | Best |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jamada | 11/4 | 10/3 | 10/3 | 10/3 | 3/1 | 10/3 (Betfair) |
| Lively Citizen | 15/2 | 15/2 | 8/1 | 7/1 | 15/2 | 8/1 (Paddy Power) |
| Uhtred Ragnarson | 11/1 | 14/1 | 16/1 | 12/1 | 12/1 | 16/1 (Paddy Power) |
| Grey Skies | 28/1 | 25/1 | 25/1 | 22/1 | 25/1 | 28/1 (Bet365) |
| Juan Bermudez | 11/2 | 5/1 | 11/2 | 5/1 | 11/2 | 11/2 (Bet365) |
| Spartan Times | 11/2 | 9/2 | 9/2 | 9/2 | 5/1 | 11/2 (Bet365) |
| Theophilos | 25/1 | 25/1 | 25/1 | 20/1 | 25/1 | 25/1 (Bet365) |
| Land Of Punt | 5/1 | 4/1 | 4/1 | 4/1 | 9/2 | 5/1 (Bet365) |
| Book Of Secrets | 17/2 | 11/1 | 12/1 | 11/1 | 10/1 | 12/1 (Paddy Power) |
| Promethean | 12/1 | 9/1 | 9/1 | 15/2 | 9/1 | 12/1 (Bet365) |
| A Good Yomp | 12/1 | 14/1 | 14/1 | 11/1 | 12/1 | 14/1 (Betfair) |
20:05 – Mental Health Awareness Week Handicap Hurdle (Div II)
Race Details: 2m | Class 4 | Going: Chase 5.9, hurdle 6.2) (watering) (Good (goingstick) | | jumps
This looks a fair late-evening handicap rather than a deep one, and the market has understandably latched on to Guet Apens after just three hurdle starts. He brings the most obvious upside and already has a useful Topspeed figure for this level, but he is short enough in a race where a few arrive with workable marks. Caelan has been knocking on the door and should give another solid account, while Maple comes here off a win and could still have a bit more to offer as a 5yo. Mr Lincoln is another with place claims from a light weight. It is not the strongest Class 4 you will see, but there are enough unexposed or in-form types to make it more than a simple one-liner.
Top Selections
1. Guet Apens – 11/8 with Bet365
Jockey: Jack Tudor | Trainer: Oliver Greenall & Josh Guerriero | Form: 312- | Rating: 112 | Topspeed: 97
Guet Apens is the one they all have to beat. A mark of 112 does not look harsh on what he has shown in only three runs over hurdles, and that latest second suggested he is ready to make a proper impact in handicaps. The profile is the key here: lightly raced, progressive and already posting figures that set the standard in this field. Jack Tudor is a good positive booking for a horse who should travel strongly over this sharp 2m, and on good ground at Aintree there should be no excuses. He is no giveaway at 11/8, but he still looks the most likely winner. Bet: WIN
Bet: WIN
2. Mr Lincoln – 9/1 with Bet365
Jockey: Sean Quinlan | Trainer: Iain Jardine | Form: 58772- | Rating: 105 | Topspeed: 82
Mr Lincoln appeals as the each-way angle because he comes here with a solid enough recent effort and is one of the less exposed handicappers in the lower half of the weights. That runner-up finish on his latest outing was a step back in the right direction, and a mark of 105 gives him room to be competitive if building on it again. Sean Quinlan is the sort you want in these northern handicap hurdles, especially on a horse who may need delivering late. At 9/1 with three places on offer, he looks the value alternative to the favourite and the type to run into the frame at least. Bet: EACH-WAY
Bet: EACH-WAY
Betting Strategy
Keep it straightforward: Guet Apens is the win play because he has the strongest progressive profile and already looks better than this mark. For an each-way punt, Mr Lincoln makes more appeal than several similarly rated rivals thanks to his low weight and latest second. Caelan is the obvious danger if running to his usual level, while Maple is respected after that last-time-out success.
Live Odds Comparison
| Horse | Bet365 | Betfair | Paddy Power | Sky Bet | William Hill | Best |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Caelan | 5/1 | 5/1 | 5/1 | 9/2 | 5/1 | 5/1 (Bet365) |
| Inappropriate | 8/1 | 9/1 | 10/1 | 8/1 | 9/1 | 10/1 (Paddy Power) |
| Guet Apens | 11/8 | 11/10 | 11/10 | 11/10 | 6/5 | 11/8 (Bet365) |
| Disguisedlimit | 12/1 | 10/1 | 11/1 | 10/1 | 11/1 | 12/1 (Bet365) |
| Maple | 6/1 | 13/2 | 7/1 | 13/2 | 13/2 | 7/1 (Paddy Power) |
| Zephlyn | 22/1 | 22/1 | 22/1 | 18/1 | 22/1 | 22/1 (Bet365) |
| Emerald Time | 18/1 | 14/1 | 16/1 | 14/1 | 16/1 | 18/1 (Bet365) |
| Mr Lincoln | 9/1 | 15/2 | 15/2 | 13/2 | 8/1 | 9/1 (Bet365) |
| Mojo Ego | 14/1 | 12/1 | 14/1 | 12/1 | 14/1 | 14/1 (Bet365) |
20:40 – “Point To Point” Bumper National Hunt Flat Race (Amateur Jockeys’ Race) (GBB Race)
Race Details: 2m | Class 4 | Going: Chase 5.9, hurdle 6.2) (watering) (Good (goingstick) | | jumps
This looks a typically lively closing Aintree bumper: plenty of lightly-raced or completely unexposed point recruits, one previous winner in the field, and a market that feels fairly tight around a handful with obvious appeal. Call Me Ken sets the standard on what little solid evidence we have after winning on debut and carrying an 83 rating, while Wise Maiden, Carrillo and Island Jetaway are the sort the market usually gets right in these races. The four-year-olds get a useful weight pull, which brings Oxo Called and Island Jetaway very much into the argument, but bumper know-how still matters and this is no straightforward solve. In truth, it’s a tricky puzzle rather than a deep race, and price sensitivity should matter.
Top Selections
1. Call Me Ken – 11/2 with Bet365
Jockey: Mr Huw Edwards | Trainer: Jake Thomas Coulson | Form: 1- | Rating: 83 | Topspeed: 10
He’s the one runner who has actually done it on the track, and in a race where so many are trading on promise alone that counts for plenty. A debut bumper winner with a mark of 83, Call Me Ken brings the strongest concrete form into the line-up and doesn’t need to improve massively to go close again. The price is fair rather than spectacular, but 11/2 is perfectly playable given he has already shown he knows how to settle and finish the job. In an amateur riders’ bumper, that professionalism can be worth its weight in gold. He holds strong claims of following up. Bet type: WIN.
Bet: WIN
2. Oxo Called – 10/1 with Bet365
Jockey: Mr Harvey Barfoot-Saunt | Trainer: Tom Scudamore | Form: | Rating: | Topspeed:
The market has shown enough interest in this four-year-old to suggest he’s expected to make a proper bumper horse, and the age allowance is an obvious plus in a race like this. Tom Scudamore is still finding his feet as a trainer, but this is the sort of contest where a well-prepared newcomer can easily outrun a double-figure price. Oxo Called is as short as 6/1 in places, so the 10/1 on offer stands out as the value angle in the race. He doesn’t have the proven edge of Call Me Ken, but with 3 places on offer he makes plenty of appeal as an each-way punt in a field full of guesswork. Bet type: EACH-WAY.
Bet: EACH-WAY
Danger: Wise Maiden is hard to dismiss given the strength of her connections in this sphere, while Island Jetaway is another four-year-old with obvious respect in the betting.
Betting Strategy
Keep it simple in a race where reputation and stable confidence will shape plenty of the market. Call Me Ken is the win play because he has actual winning form and sets the clearest standard. Oxo Called is the each-way option at a bigger price, especially with that useful age allowance. Wise Maiden and Island Jetaway are the main dangers if the newcomers are as good as the market suggests.
Live Odds Comparison
| Horse | Bet365 | Betfair | Paddy Power | Sky Bet | William Hill | Best |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Call Me Ken | 11/2 | 9/2 | 9/2 | 9/2 | 9/2 | 11/2 (Bet365) |
| Briskalo | 16/1 | 12/1 | 16/1 | 16/1 | 16/1 | 16/1 (Bet365) |
| Carrillo | 9/2 | 9/2 | 5/1 | 5/1 | 9/2 | 5/1 (Paddy Power) |
| College Road | 7/1 | 7/1 | 8/1 | 15/2 | 15/2 | 8/1 (Paddy Power) |
| G N Jefferson | 28/1 | 28/1 | 28/1 | 28/1 | 28/1 | 28/1 (Bet365) |
| Laugusto | 9/1 | 12/1 | 12/1 | 11/1 | 10/1 | 12/1 (Betfair) |
| Pass The Port | 22/1 | 25/1 | 25/1 | 25/1 | 22/1 | 25/1 (Betfair) |
| Via Romano | 33/1 | 33/1 | 33/1 | 33/1 | 33/1 | 33/1 (Bet365) |
| Handsome Stan | 12/1 | 10/1 | 10/1 | 9/1 | 10/1 | 12/1 (Bet365) |
| Oxo Called | 10/1 | 13/2 | 13/2 | 6/1 | 7/1 | 10/1 (Bet365) |
| Run Happy | 20/1 | 14/1 | 18/1 | 16/1 | 18/1 | 20/1 (Bet365) |
| Silver Salver | 16/1 | 14/1 | 16/1 | 16/1 | 16/1 | 16/1 (Bet365) |
| Maiden Over | 28/1 | 33/1 | 33/1 | 33/1 | 28/1 | 33/1 (Betfair) |
| Wise Maiden | 4/1 | 9/2 | 5/1 | 9/2 | 9/2 | 5/1 (Paddy Power) |
| Island Jetaway | 6/1 | 13/2 | 13/2 | 6/1 | 6/1 | 13/2 (Betfair) |
Aintree Course Specialists
Horses To Note
The top course performers among today’s runners:
| Horse | Runs | Wins | Win % | Place % |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| My Bobby Dazzler | 6 | 3 | 50% | 66.67% |
| Masked Dance | 3 | 1 | 33.33% | 66.67% |
| Brewin’upastorm | 9 | 1 | 11.11% | 33.33% |
| Lively Citizen | 4 | 0 | 0% | 50% |
| Luttrell Lad | 3 | 0 | 0% | 0% |
Jockeys To Note
The pilots with the strongest records at the course:
| Jockey | Rides | Wins | Win % | Place % |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| William Shanahan | 3 | 2 | 66.67% | 66.67% |
| Charlotte Jones | 11 | 3 | 27.27% | 27.27% |
| Toby Wynne | 8 | 2 | 25% | 37.5% |
| Mr Sean O’Connor | 4 | 1 | 25% | 50% |
| Mr Darren Andrews | 4 | 1 | 25% | 50% |
Trainers To Note
Yards that have done well at Aintree:
| Trainer | Runners | Wins | Win % | Place % |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| James Owen | 6 | 3 | 50% | 66.67% |
| Mel Rowley | 30 | 10 | 33.33% | 60% |
| Bradley Gibbs | 3 | 1 | 33.33% | 100% |
| C R Barber | 4 | 1 | 25% | 50% |
| Peter Atkinson | 5 | 1 | 20% | 20% |
Summary & Best Bets
That wraps up our Aintree racing tips for Friday 15th May 2026. We’ve covered all 8 races with our top selections highlighted above. Use the betting strategies as a starting point, always shop around for the best odds, and never bet more than you can afford to lose.
FAQ
What time does racing start at Aintree today?
The first race at Aintree on Friday 15th May 2026 goes off at 16:35, with 8 races scheduled in total.
What is the going at Aintree today?
The going at Aintree is reported as Chase 5.9, hurdle 6.2) (watering) (Good (goingstick).
How many races are at Aintree today?
There are 8 races on the card at Aintree today, running from 16:35 through to 20:40.
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