RACING GRAND NATIONAL:THERE IS hardly a big race worthy of the name that Barry Geraghty hasn't won during his illustrious career but Aigle d'Or can fill the gaping Irish Grand National hole in the former champion jockey's CV at Fairyhouse.

As bookmakers found to their cost at Cheltenham, there is no more potent big-race force than Geraghty and Nicky Henderson.

Shakalakaboomboom will be Henderson’s representative in Saturday’s Aintree Grand National but Aigle d’Or looks a value each-way proposition in today’s €250,000 highlight.

Aigle d’Or is one of two JP McManus-owned horses travelling across the Irish Sea and they will be joined by three home-based McManus hopes headed by Tony McCoy’s choice Groody Hill.

Along with a strong team headed by Four Commanders from Michael O’Leary’s Gigginstown and four runners from Willie Mullins, the feature presents an even more competitive heat than usual with all 30 runners in the handicap proper.

Three of the last 10 winners have been British-based and, in terms of Aigle d’Or, it is the three miles and five furlong trip that catches the eye.

This is much the longest trip the French bred has ever been asked to race but on the evidence of his last trip to Ireland it might just prove the key to him.

Finishing sixth behind Cross Appeal in the Paddy Power Chase at Leopardstown over Christmas, with Groody Hill third, leaves him with plenty to do in pure form terms but Aigle d’Or was running on noticeably well that day.

Aigle d’Or is also versatile in terms of ground which might prove important with a forecast of significant overnight rain, something that wouldn’t help Ruby Walsh’s mount Allee Garde, Cross Appeal or Four Commanders.

Saddlers Storm and Raptor at the bottom of the handicap could also offer value whileGlam Gerry could have a real shout if his jumping holds up – but that is a serious “if”. There are a couple of those floating about Aigle d’Or’s chance too, but at general 20/1 odds, it could be worth taking a chance on the men in form.

Prediction– 1 Aigle d'Or; 2 Saddlers Storm; 3 Raptor; 4 Glam Gerry.