395: Grand National Festival 2026 Day 2 Preview | Tips from Graeme Rodway & Tom Segal | In The Know

In this lively and insightful episode of 'In The Know' from the Racing Post, Ross Briley and guest Graeme Rodway dive into Day 2 of the 2026 Grand National Festival at Aintree, offering expert analysis and betting tips. The show opens with a reflective look at the unique atmosphere of Aintree compared to Cheltenham, emphasizing its lower pressure and more relaxed vibe. The hosts dissect the previous day’s races, including standout performances from horses like Barton Snow and the controversial form of Cheltenham runners, with particular focus on the challenges of predicting outcomes in increasingly competitive, front-running races. They explore key races on Day 2, including the Grade 1 novice chases, the top novice hurdle, the Melling Chase, and the Topham, offering nuanced opinions on favorites like Hartwood and Madara, while highlighting value picks such as Gidley Park, Prairie Wolf, and Shadow Paddy. The conversation is peppered with candid reflections on betting frustrations, the unpredictability of form, and the emotional highs and lows of following horses through their careers. The episode closes with a spirited exchange on the final conditional jockeys’ handicap hurdle, where both hosts admit to being overwhelmed by the sheer number of variables, yet still share their best bets for the day. The episode is a masterclass in racing analysis, blending sharp tactical insight with humor and humility. Key takeaways include the importance of not overcomplicating race analysis, the value of horses returning from wind surgery, the danger of over-relying on Cheltenham form, and the potential for long-shot winners in open races like the Sefton. The hosts emphasize that while favorites like Hartwood and Madara are strong, the real opportunities lie in horses with strong form but overlooked potential—especially those fresh off breaks or with tactical advantages. The emotional core of the show is the shared love for the sport, the respect for horses and jockeys, and the understanding that even experts can be blindsided. Despite the chaos, the hosts remain optimistic and engaged, embodying the spirit of the festival.