Page 4

The 2025 Grand National: Runners, Odds, and Everything You Need to Know

The 2025 Grand National: Runners, Odds, and Everything You Need to Know The Aintree Grand National is back for 2025, promising another thrilling spectacle of horse racing drama. With a massive prize fund of £1,000,000 and a history of producing some of the most memorable moments in the sport, this year’s edition is set to be a must-watch. Here’s your complete guide to the race, including key contenders, betting odds, and how to tune in.

When and Where is the 2025 Grand National?

Date: Saturday, April 5, 2025

Start Time: 4:00 PM BST

Location: Aintree Racecourse, Liverpool, UK

The Grand National is one of the most challenging steeplechases in the world, covering 4 miles and 2½ furlongs and featuring 30 iconic fences across two laps.

Top Contenders and Latest Betting Odds

With less than a month to go, the betting markets are heating up. Here’s a look at some of the top contenders and their latest odds:

Intense Raffles – 6/1

I Am Maximus – 8/1

Iroko – 8/1

Stumptown – 12/1

Perceval Legallois – 14/1

Nick Rockett – 16/1

Vanillier – 16/1

One of the biggest recent developments is the withdrawal of early favorite Inothewayurthinkin, who was initially tipped as a top contender after winning the Cheltenham Gold Cup. This has shaken up the betting markets, allowing new frontrunners to emerge.

Jockey and Trainer Insights

The race will see some of the best jockeys and trainers competing for glory. Bryony Frost has been confirmed to ride Stay Away Fay, a former Cheltenham Festival winner trained by Paul Nicholls. With Frost’s experience and aggressive riding style, this could be a dark horse to watch.

The Most Famous Fences at Aintree

The Grand National is legendary for its challenging fences. Here are three of the most feared jumps on the course:

Becher’s Brook – Known for its tricky landing angle.

The Chair – One of the tallest fences at 5ft 2in.

Canal Turn – A sharp left turn immediately after the jump.

How to Watch the Grand National 2025

TV Coverage: ITV1 will broadcast the race live in the UK.

Online Streaming: Platforms like Paddy Power will offer live streaming options for those betting online.

Final Thoughts

With the excitement building, the 2025 Grand National is shaping up to be another classic. Whether you’re a seasoned racing fan or just tuning in for the spectacle, this year’s event promises unpredictable drama, high stakes, and racing history in the making. Stay tuned and get your bets in wisely!

Who do you think will win the Grand National this year? Let us know your predictions!

Photo: Freepik

How Tony Bloom’s Analytical Approach Has Influenced Modern Sports Management

Image by kjpargeter on Freepik

How Tony Bloom’s Analytical Approach Has Influenced Modern Sports Management Tony Bloom is widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in modern sports management, thanks to his analytical approach. A successful entrepreneur, professional gambler, and football club owner, Bloom has redefined how data and statistical analysis can be used to gain a competitive edge in sports. His work, particularly at Brighton & Hove Albion Football Club and his sports betting company Starlizard, showcases the power of data-driven decision-making in an industry that was traditionally dominated by intuition and experience.

Revolutionizing Football with Data Analytics

When Tony Bloom took over as chairman of Brighton & Hove Albion in 2009, the club was struggling in the lower tiers of English football. However, under his ownership, Brighton has not only gained promotion to the Premier League but has also established itself as a competitive team within the division. Much of this success can be attributed to Bloom’s use of data analytics in player recruitment, performance analysis, and tactical decision-making.

One of Bloom’s key innovations has been the implementation of a sophisticated scouting and recruitment system. Unlike many traditional football clubs that rely on scouts’ observations and subjective judgments, Brighton employs a data-driven approach to player evaluation. Starlizard, Bloom’s sports analytics company, provides in-depth statistical analysis of players across various leagues worldwide. This approach enables Brighton to identify undervalued players with high potential, allowing the club to sign talented individuals for a fraction of what more prominent clubs would pay.

Player Recruitment and Squad Building

Brighton’s recruitment strategy under Bloom has yielded impressive results. The club has acquired relatively unknown players and turned them into Premier League stars. Notable examples include Moisés Caicedo, Alexis Mac Allister, and Kaoru Mitoma, who were signed for modest fees and later became key figures in the team. This model of using data to find hidden gems has not only helped Brighton remain competitive but has also allowed the club to generate substantial profits from player sales.

Beyond recruitment, Bloom’s analytical mindset extends to player development. Brighton uses data to monitor player performance, optimize training routines, and reduce injury risks. By leveraging advanced metrics, the club can make informed decisions about squad rotation, fitness management, and tactical adjustments.

Tactical Analysis and Match Preparation

Another area where Bloom’s data-driven philosophy has had a significant impact is in match preparation. Brighton employs analytics to assess opponents, study their strengths and weaknesses, and devise game plans accordingly. This level of strategic planning has allowed the club to punch above its weight against financially superior teams in the Premier League.

By embracing analytics, Brighton has also developed a flexible and adaptive style of play. The club’s managers have been encouraged to use data insights to inform their tactical choices, leading to a dynamic and efficient style of football. This approach has earned Brighton praise for its intelligent gameplay and effective decision-making on the pitch.

Influence Beyond Brighton

Bloom’s success at Brighton has inspired other clubs to adopt similar analytical methods. Many top European clubs now integrate data analysis into their recruitment and coaching strategies. Additionally, Bloom’s investment in Belgian club Royale Union Saint-Gilloise has further demonstrated how a data-driven model can transform a club’s fortunes. Under his ownership, Union SG rose from the second tier of Belgian football to become one of the country’s most formidable teams.

The Future of Sports Management

Tony Bloom’s influence on modern sports management is undeniable. His analytical approach has shown that data can be a powerful tool in building competitive teams, making informed financial decisions, and optimizing performance. As technology continues to evolve, data analytics will likely play an even more significant role in shaping the future of sports.

Bloom’s work has set a benchmark for clubs worldwide, proving that a well-structured analytical system can lead to long-term success. His ability to merge statistical precision with strategic vision has not only revolutionized Brighton & Hove Albion but has also reshaped how football clubs operate at the highest level.

Conclusion

Tony Bloom’s analytical approach to sports management has transformed Brighton & Hove Albion into a model of efficiency and sustainability. By leveraging data analytics for recruitment, player development, and tactical planning, he has demonstrated the immense value of an evidence-based approach in football. As more clubs embrace data-driven methodologies, Bloom’s legacy in modern sports management will continue to grow, cementing his status as a visionary leader in the industry.

Photo: Freepik

5 Legendary Quotes from Harry Findlay About Denman

Image by freepik

5 Legendary Quotes from Harry Findlay About Denman Harry Findlay, a legendary figure in the world of professional gambling, is renowned for his audacious betting strategies and his deep association with the illustrious racehorse, Denman. Their partnership not only led to remarkable victories but also produced a series of memorable quotes that encapsulate Findlay’s passion and confidence in Denman’s abilities. Here are five notable quotes from Harry Findlay about Denman, including his reflections on a significant bet:

1. The Easiest £33,000 Ever Won

Reflecting on a substantial wager placed on Denman, Findlay recounted:

“I was so cold I marched straight into the restaurant and devoured two of the racecourse’s biggest beef pies. I needed heat. When we arrived, Denman was 1-9. He started the race 1-12. Nowadays, that would be 1-25 in the same race.”

He continued:

“Paul Barber and I were in the paddock before the race and Denman looked magnificent. Paul Barber didn’t look quite so well. He heard me having £360,000 on Denman to win £33,000 and thought I was stark-raving mad. He couldn’t get his head around it and kept saying: ‘Harry, Harry, slow down, slow down’.”

Findlay’s unwavering confidence was evident as he responded:

“I said: ‘Leave me out, Paul. This is the greatest gift of all time’. So it proved, Denman won by 17 lengths, and if Christian Williams had pushed him out, it would have been 70. It was, and always will be, the easiest £33,000 I’ve ever won.”

2. Comparing Denman to Arkle

In a conversation with the legendary jockey Lester Piggott, Findlay shared an intriguing comparison:

“So there I was, sitting next to Lester Piggott at the dinner table and I couldn’t believe what I was hearing. William Haggas is walking round serving the sausages and Lester 100 per cent guarantees me that Denman was better than Arkle. I say to him, ‘How can you say that?’ and he looks at me and says: ‘I’ve seen Arkle and you haven’t. I’ve seen them all and I’m telling you Denman was better than Arkle, faster than Arkle’.”

3. The ‘Tank’ Moniker

Findlay often referred to Denman as “The Tank,” a nickname that reflected the horse’s immense power and dominance on the racecourse. This moniker became synonymous with Denman’s racing style and was a testament to the horse’s formidable presence.

4. The Impact of the 2008 Gold Cup Victory

Denman’s triumph in the 2008 Cheltenham Gold Cup was a pinnacle moment for Findlay. He described the aftermath of this victory as a significant turning point in his life, even attributing subsequent health issues to the immense emotional investment in that race.

5. A Tribute to Denman’s Toughness

Following Denman’s passing, Findlay paid homage to the horse’s resilience and character:

“He was tough, hardy and willing, wasn’t the easiest to train and would bite your hand off in his box given half a chance. He came along at the right time and was one of our superstars during a golden era for Team Ditcheat.”

These quotes not only highlight Harry Findlay’s profound admiration for Denman but also offer insight into the unique bond between a gambler and his champion racehorse. Their journey together remains a significant chapter in the annals of horse racing history.

Photo: Freepik

by Denman horse racing Harry Findlay 0

Harry Findlay: Losing A £2.5M Bet

Image by freepik

Harry Findlay: Losing A £2.5M Bet Harry Findlay is one of the most colourful characters in the world of horse racing. Known for his love of high-stakes betting, Findlay has made and lost fortunes on the back of his racing bets. His approach is unconventional, relying heavily on gut instinct and a deep passion for the sport. However, Findlay’s success cannot be denied; he has won some of the biggest bets in racing history.

The Man Who Lived and Breathed Gambling

Findlay’s career in gambling is nothing short of extraordinary. He achieved fame and success, notably as the owner of Denman, one of the most talented novice chasers of its time. His most famous victory came with Denman, on which he placed a £2 million bet that paid off handsomely. Despite facing ups and downs, including a temporary ban from the sport, Findlay remains a legendary figure, known for his fearless approach to betting and his larger-than-life personality.

Findlay was unapologetically direct about his approach to odds, stating, “There’s no difference between getting 1-2 about a 1-4 chance and getting 4-1 about a 2-1 chance. People who say ‘I won’t bet odds-on,’ they’re just idiots. When you want to bet an odds-on shot, you can get on—when you want to bet a big-priced one, you can’t.”

His philosophy on gambling was simple yet profound: “If you look up gambling in the dictionary, it doesn’t say ‘this means a sure way to make a steady profit over time.’ It says ‘gambling: a form of interest that can either ruin you or make you a fortune,’ and that’s the way it is.”

Five Key Aspects of Harry Findlay’s Gambling Approach

1) Bet Big When the Odds Are Right

Findlay was never afraid to go all in on a bet when he believed the odds were in his favor. His massive wager on Denman exemplified this fearless approach.

2) Trust Your Judgment and Instincts

Unlike traditional gamblers who rely on mathematical models, Findlay often placed bets based on intuition and deep knowledge of horse racing.

3) Avoid Hedging Your Bets

Findlay strongly opposed hedging, arguing that if you believe in your selection, you should continue backing it rather than cutting your potential profits.

4) Embrace High-Stakes Betting

Findlay’s approach was all or nothing—he never shied away from placing huge bets, making millions but also losing large sums in the process.

5) Live for the Thrill, Not Just the Money

Despite winning millions, Findlay was never one to hoard his earnings. He spent freely and lived extravagantly, reinforcing his belief that gambling was about passion, not just profit.

A Legacy Cemented in Gambling History

Findlay’s life and career were documented in his book Harry Findlay: Gambling For Life: The Man Who Won Millions And Spent Every Penny (2017). His fearless betting strategy, coupled with his larger-than-life personality, makes him one of the most memorable figures in the history of professional gambling. Whether winning big or losing it all, Findlay always played the game his way—without regrets.

Photo: Freepik

by Harry Findlay professional gambler 0

5 Professional Gamblers Who Lost Everything

Image by freepik 5 Professional Gamblers Who Lost Everything

I once knew a woman who bet her pink flamingo was faster than yours.

Gambling can be a high-stakes game where fortunes are won and lost in the blink of an eye. Some professional gamblers have made millions, but many have also lost it all due to bad bets, poor money management, or sheer misfortune. Here are five professional gamblers who went from riches to rags.

1. Archie Karas – The Rise and Fall of a Legend

Archie Karas is one of the most famous gamblers in history, known for turning $50 into over $40 million in one of the greatest gambling runs ever. Karas, a Greek immigrant, arrived in Las Vegas in 1992 and began an unprecedented winning streak. He played poker, pool, and high-stakes dice games, crushing some of the best poker players in the world.

However, his luck eventually ran out. Over the next few years, he lost his entire fortune, one massive bet at a time. His aggressive betting strategy and refusal to walk away when ahead led to his downfall. Karas eventually ended up broke and was even arrested for marking cards in a casino in 2013, tarnishing his once-legendary reputation.

2. Stu Ungar – The Tragic Genius

Stu Ungar was considered one of the greatest poker players of all time, winning three World Series of Poker (WSOP) Main Events. He was a prodigy at gin rummy before transitioning to poker, where he dominated his competition.

Despite winning millions, Ungar had severe problems with drug addiction and poor financial management. He frequently squandered his winnings on gambling, drugs, and a lavish lifestyle. His addictions ultimately destroyed his career and his health. In 1998, he was found dead in a cheap motel room, broke and alone, a tragic end to a once-brilliant career.

3. Erick Lindgren – From Poker Star to Bankruptcy

Erick Lindgren was a top professional poker player, known for his multiple WSOP bracelets and World Poker Tour (WPT) titles. He was at the top of the game in the 2000s, earning millions in tournament winnings and sponsorship deals.

However, Lindgren developed a severe sports betting addiction that led him into massive debt. His gambling losses piled up, and by 2012, he owed millions to various creditors, including Full Tilt Poker. He eventually filed for bankruptcy, admitting that his poor money management and addiction had ruined his financial stability.

4. Harry Findlay – The Risky Bettor

Harry Findlay was a well-known professional sports bettor who made and lost fortunes betting on horse racing. He had an uncanny ability to pick winners and made millions through high-stakes betting. However, Findlay believed in reinvesting everything, often wagering all his winnings instead of securing them.

His downfall came when he placed a series of reckless bets that didn’t go his way. He lost vast sums of money, leading to financial ruin. Findlay later admitted that his aggressive betting style, while thrilling, was ultimately unsustainable and led to his downfall.

5. Brian Molony – The Criminal Gambler

Brian Molony was not a professional gambler in the traditional sense, but his story is one of the most infamous in gambling history. He was a bank employee in Canada who embezzled over $10 million to fund his gambling addiction. Molony bet on sports and casino games, frequently wagering massive amounts on a single bet.

Eventually, his scheme was uncovered, and he was arrested. His story was so shocking that it inspired the book Stung and the movie Owning Mahowny, starring Philip Seymour Hoffman. Molony’s tale is a cautionary reminder of how gambling addiction can lead to financial and personal ruin.

Conclusion

These stories of professional gamblers losing everything serve as cautionary tales about the dangers of gambling. While skill and strategy can lead to success, luck always plays a role, and mismanagement of money can quickly turn fortune into disaster. The key lesson from these gamblers’ downfalls is the importance of self-control, financial discipline, and knowing when to walk away.

Photo: Freepik

by gambling gambling risk professional gambler 0

The 2025 Grand National: Runners, Odds, and Everything You Need to Know

How Tony Bloom’s Analytical Approach Has Influenced Modern Sports Management

5 Legendary Quotes from Harry Findlay About Denman

Harry Findlay: Losing A £2.5M Bet

5 Professional Gamblers Who Lost Everything

5 Pointz – Casino Blog

Recent Posts

Recent Comments