On the morning of the Grand National, the odds on Irish hope Papillon fall from 33 to 1 to 10 to 1. At second favourite, Papillon does not disappoint. Trained by Ted Walsh and ridden by his son Ruby, just back after a shocking series of injuries, it makes for a perfect day for the Irish. Balmy weather and swoosh logos - it can only be the Masters. Vijay Singh emerges as the most steady hand, taking the green jacket with a final total of 10-under. Ernie Els is three shots behind and the Tiger finishes at four-under. Munster continue their winning ways with a 29-10 crushing of Stade Francais to see them through to the semi-finals of the European Cup. The return of Sonia O'Sullivan is confirmed at the Balmoral five-mile run. She wins in a time of 24 minutes 50 seconds, comfortably ahead of Tegla Laroupe.

Suddenly, Sydney seems promising again. Manchester United appear vaguely embarrassed in accepting the Premiership title again.