Leading Tipster Forecasts Back-to-Back Grand National Triumph for Patrick Mullins
Renowned racing analyst Ken Pitterson has made a bold prediction that amateur jockey Patrick Mullins will achieve consecutive Grand National victories, though this time aboard a different horse. Mullins, son of legendary trainer Willie Mullins, famously rode 33-1 outsider Nick Rockett to an unexpected win in the 2025 Grand National.
Jockey Switch and Horse Withdrawal Reshape National Contenders
Initially scheduled to partner Nick Rockett again this year, Patrick Mullins made a late change earlier this week, opting instead to ride stablemate Grangeclare West. This decision came before Nick Rockett was officially withdrawn from the Aintree spectacle following a challenging season.
Pitterson, who accurately predicted Nick Rockett's surprising victory twelve months ago as a contributor to ITV's racing coverage, now believes Grangeclare West represents the strongest contender. The horse currently stands among the favourites at 10-1 odds.
Pitterson's Analysis of the Leading Contender
"This year, I like the chances of Grangeclare West," Pitterson stated. "He finished third in the race last year and Willie Mullins has been gradually building him up perfectly. I was impressed by his victory in the Bobbyjo Chase, which Nick Rockett won last year en route to Aintree."
The pundit emphasized the training strategy, noting "he's getting him to peak at the right time." Pitterson drew parallels between the two horses, explaining "He shares a similar profile to Nick Rockett and examining his previous form reveals a classy performer. Winning a Grade 1 as a seven-year-old demonstrates genuine back class. He perfectly matches the criteria I seek in a Grand National horse."
Additional Selections for the Aintree Showpiece
For his secondary picks, Pitterson, who works for William Hill Racing Radio, highlighted two other runners expected to deliver strong performances.
- Panic Attack: "She's an intriguing runner - a mare in form during this season can be particularly dangerous. Her unique achievement of winning both the Paddy Power Gold Cup and Coral Gold Cup in November stands unmatched. Trainer Dan Skelton's expertise adds to her threat."
- Gerri Colombe: "I've followed him since his youth and his build is ideal. While not the fastest, his jumping and travelling style suits the National. After overcoming past issues, his recent Down Royal victory shows he arrives relatively fresh and could certainly feature prominently."
The stage is set for an enthralling Grand National, with Patrick Mullins aiming to create history with consecutive victories on different mounts, guided by his father's training mastery and bolstered by expert predictions favouring his chances.
