horse racing

5 Horse Trainers Who Love To Bet On Their Horses

Horse trainers are often seen as strategic experts, with insights and inside information on the horses they train. Some of them, known for betting on their own horses, have mastered the art of turning their knowledge into substantial winnings. Here are five horse trainers who are not just skilled in training winners but are also rumored or known to enjoy a flutter themselves.

1. Barry Hills:

Barry Hills is a legendary figure in British horse racing, not just for his training accomplishments but also for his infamous betting coups. Hills funded his early training career by winning big with Frankincense, the 1968 Lincoln winner, who was backed at odds of 66/1 and returned at 100/8. This monumental win brought Hills a payout of £64,000, equivalent to over £1.5 million in today’s money. Throughout his career, Hills became known as the “King of the Coups,” using his knowledge of his stable’s form to line his pockets while landing major gambles. His family has followed in his footsteps, with his son Charles continuing the family tradition as a trainer.

Gambling Score: 5/5

2. David Evans:

David Evans, known as the “Welsh Wizard,” is a trainer who has a reputation for landing significant betting coups. Based at Ty-Derlwyn Farm in Abergavenny, Evans has a keen eye for spotting opportunities, especially with two-year-olds. One famous example was the debut of the filly Choux at Thirsk in May, who was backed from 40/1 down to 100/30 and won easily. Whether it’s a debutant at Chepstow or a seasoned handicapper at Haydock, Evans is a man to watch when the money is down. His stable is often at the center of well-executed gambles, and following his horses when they are strongly backed often proves fruitful.

Gambling Score: 5/5

3. David Simcock:

David Simcock, based at Trillium Place Stables in Newmarket, is another trainer whose betting strategies are often well-timed. While it’s not confirmed whether Simcock himself bets heavily, his stable’s horses are often well-supported in the market. One particularly interesting pattern is that his two-year-olds on their second start rarely go off at odds longer than 13/2. This betting trend indicates that when the stable fancies one of their youngsters, they don’t hold back, and the market reflects their confidence. Simcock’s horses tend to win when the money is down, making him a trainer worth noting for punters.

Gambling Score: 4/5

4. Clive Cox:

Clive Cox, a trainer based in Lambourn, Berkshire, is another figure often associated with betting coups, especially with his two-year-olds. Cox’s debutants are particularly well-regarded, and when one of his runners starts as a favorite, it’s often a sign that the stable is confident. Cox’s horses, when heavily backed, frequently deliver, especially with his juveniles, who have a reputation for being hard to beat when fancied in the market. While there is no confirmed evidence that Cox himself enjoys a bet, his horses’ betting patterns suggest that those in the know are well aware of their chances.

Gambling Score: 4/5

5. Barney Curley:

No list of betting trainers would be complete without mentioning Barney Curley, a legendary gambler and trainer who orchestrated some of the most famous betting coups in horse racing history. Curley’s most iconic achievement was the “Yellow Sam” coup in 1975, where he won a fortune by manipulating the odds on a horse running at a low-profile Irish track. Curley’s ability to keep his betting plans under wraps and land colossal wins made him a figure of both admiration and fear among bookmakers. His success as both a gambler and a trainer solidified his place in racing folklore. Sadly passed away in 2021.

Gambling Score: 5/5

These trainers have not only demonstrated their ability to condition horses but also their knack for orchestrating well-timed bets. When the money starts flowing, these are the names that bookmakers fear.

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5 Most Famous Grand National Winners: Legends of the Aintree Racecourse

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5 Most Famous Grand National Winners: Legends of the Aintree Racecourse The Grand National is one of the most iconic horse races in the world, steeped in history, drama, and unforgettable moments. Since its inception in 1839, the race has produced numerous champions that have become household names. Among the many victors, five stand out as the most famous Grand National winners, each with a unique story that has helped define the race’s legendary status.

1. Red Rum (1973, 1974, 1977):

Red Rum is undoubtedly the most famous horse to ever compete in the Grand National. Known for his incredible stamina and heart, Red Rum remains the only horse to win the race three times, securing victories in 1973, 1974, and 1977. His career is a remarkable tale of resilience, as he overcame a bone disease that could have ended his racing days. His victory in 1973, where he caught and passed the runaway leader Crisp in the final strides, is considered one of the greatest comebacks in Grand National history. Red Rum’s legacy continues to shine bright, with his name synonymous with the race itself.

2. Tiger Roll (2018, 2019):

Tiger Roll became a modern-day Grand National legend when he claimed back-to-back victories in 2018 and 2019, the first horse to do so since Red Rum. Trained by Gordon Elliott and owned by Michael O’Leary, Tiger Roll was a small, unassuming horse, but his ability to jump and handle the grueling course at Aintree made him a fan favorite. His 2019 victory came with added pressure, as comparisons to Red Rum were drawn after his first triumph. He responded by delivering a nearly flawless performance, securing his place in the annals of Grand National greatness.

3. Aldaniti (1981):

The story of Aldaniti is one of the most heartwarming in Grand National history. The horse had suffered multiple career-threatening injuries, and his jockey, Bob Champion, was battling cancer during the lead-up to the 1981 race. Against all odds, Aldaniti and Champion won the race in what was a triumph of the human and equine spirit. Their story was later immortalized in the film Champions, which helped solidify their place in the race’s history. The victory remains a symbol of perseverance and hope, transcending the world of racing.

4. Foinavon (1967):

Foinavon’s win in the 1967 Grand National is one of the most bizarre and unlikely in the race’s history. At 100-1 odds, Foinavon was considered an outsider with little chance of success. However, a massive pile-up at the 23rd fence left most of the field scrambling to recover, while Foinavon, trailing behind, was able to navigate the chaos and avoid the collision. He took the lead and went on to win the race, making him one of the most unexpected victors ever. The fence where the pile-up occurred is now named in his honor, further cementing his place in Grand National folklore.

5. Mr Frisk (1990):

Mr. Frisk holds a unique place in Grand National history as the fastest winner of the race. In 1990, he completed the course in 8 minutes and 47.8 seconds, a record that still stands to this day. Ridden by amateur jockey Marcus Armytage, Mr. Frisk’s pace and jumping ability set him apart from the field, and his victory remains one of the most memorable performances in the race’s long history. His record time is unlikely to be broken due to changes in the course and safety measures, ensuring Mr. Frisk’s name remains in the record books.

These five horses have left an indelible mark on the Grand National, their stories filled with triumph, perseverance, and unforgettable moments that continue to inspire fans of horse racing around the world.

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Grand National Winner Predictor 2025

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Grand National Winner Predictor 2025 OLBG’s Grand National Prediction Tool is designed to give you an edge when it comes to picking your 2025 Grand National winner. This powerful algorithm evaluates a wide range of data points, including a horse’s fall record, wins over three miles or more, and its experience on tough courses like Aintree. Additionally, expert ratings from OLBG’s tipsters are factored in to provide well-rounded predictions.

The tool creates a comprehensive rating for each horse, assessing factors like:

Current form
Jumping ability
Stamina
Course experience
Ground preference
Stable form (minor adjustments)
To make the most of our prediction tool, don’t forget to select the expected ground conditions for race day to refine your results further.

Expected Ground Conditions:

Firm
Good to Firm
Good
Good to Soft
Soft
Heavy

Why Use OLBG’s Prediction Tool?

With the 2025 Grand National taking place at 4 p.m. on Saturday, April 5th, OLBG is here to ensure you have all the tools to pick your winner. Whether you’re a seasoned bettor or just looking to make an informed decision, our prediction tool, along with expert tips, will guide you through the race.

Explore each horse’s profile and see how they measure up before reviewing our top four Grand National picks. Even with betting shops closed, you can place your bets quickly and securely online with OLBG’s recommended bookmakers. Head over to our Free Bets and Offers section, sign up with a trusted bookie, and place your bets in minutes.

How OLBG’s Predictor Works:

The OLBG prediction model stems from years of refining the key elements that make a horse a Grand National contender. Starting with a combination of historical success and statistical analysis, our tool now covers a wide range of factors, including:

Career falls and falls this season
Wins over distances of 3 to 4 miles
Runs over the National fences
Wins this season and prize money earned
Age (horses younger than 8 or older than 11 are often at a disadvantage)
Weight carried (heavier weights can be detrimental, especially in testing conditions)
Using these factors, the tool generates a shortlist of horses that have the characteristics needed to run strongly and finish the demanding race. While the Grand National is notoriously unpredictable, our prediction tool increases your chances of identifying a horse that could give you a solid run for your money.

Why Ground Conditions Matter:

The going is a critical factor when evaluating a horse’s chances. Larger steeplechasers typically find it challenging to run on firmer ground, as their joints absorb more impact. These horses tend to perform better on softer ground, which reduces stress on their bodies.

However, ground preference varies by horse, and breeding can play a role. A horse often inherits characteristics from its sire or dam, including surface preferences. By reviewing a horse’s past performances, you can often detect a pattern that reveals its preferred ground. Weight carried also comes into play—tougher ground makes it harder for horses to carry heavy loads, which can influence their chances.

OLBG’s Results:

OLBG’s Grand National Prediction Tool crunches all the key data points and predicts which horses are best suited to the race conditions. Our experts blend in their ratings, giving you a prediction that ticks all the right boxes. With years of fine-tuning, this tool has become a favorite among racing fans.

Why not give OLBG’s prediction tool a try this year and see how it helps you pick your Grand National winner? We’ve taken the hard work out of studying form, so you can sit back and enjoy the race!

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How Would Tony Bloom Find the Grand National Winner?

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How Would Tony Bloom Find the Grand National Winner? Tony Bloom, the legendary sports bettor and owner of Brighton & Hove Albion FC, is widely recognized for his sharp betting mind and data-driven approach to gambling. Known as “The Lizard” in betting circles, Bloom’s success stems from his ability to combine deep statistical analysis with industry insight, making him an ideal figure to tackle one of the biggest horse racing puzzles: finding the Grand National winner. But how would he approach this notoriously unpredictable event? Here’s how Tony Bloom would likely use knowledge, insight, and data to find the winner.

1. Deep Analysis of Historical Data:

Tony Bloom’s betting success is rooted in his use of advanced data models, and he would undoubtedly apply this to the Grand National. He would begin by analyzing extensive historical data on previous races, focusing on key factors such as:

Weight carried by the horse
Age of the horse (winners tend to be between 8-11 years old)
Previous form in long-distance races
Trainer and jockey performance in the Grand National
He would look for patterns in these variables to create predictive models that identify horses with the best statistical chance of winning. For example, horses carrying more than 11 stone rarely win, and Bloom would use this data to eliminate those from his shortlist.

2. Understanding the Unique Nature of the Race:

The Grand National is unlike any other race due to its length (over 4 miles), its 30 fences, and the large number of runners. Bloom would recognize the importance of endurance and jumping ability, placing more weight on horses with proven stamina in long-distance races and a solid jumping record. He would analyze the past performances of horses over marathon distances and their ability to handle heavy ground, common in the Grand National.

Additionally, Bloom would pay close attention to a horse’s temperament. The chaotic nature of the Grand National can cause inexperienced or nervous horses to falter. Horses that have previously competed well in large fields or tricky conditions would score higher in his model.

3. Trainer and Jockey Insight:

Bloom is no stranger to understanding the impact of human factors in sports betting. He would place significant emphasis on the trainer and jockey combination. Certain trainers have excelled at preparing horses specifically for the Grand National, like Gordon Elliott or Nigel Twiston-Davies, who understand how to get a horse ready for the demands of the race.

Bloom would also dive into jockey statistics, analyzing those who have performed well in the Grand National before. Jockeys with experience navigating the unique challenges of Aintree’s fences would be ranked highly in his analysis.

4. Assessing Market Movements:

As a seasoned gambler, Bloom would be very aware of how betting markets react in the lead-up to the Grand National. Sudden shifts in odds can indicate insider knowledge, such as horses performing well in training or recovering better from injuries than expected. Bloom’s sharp understanding of market sentiment, honed over decades of betting, would allow him to spot value in the odds.

He wouldn’t necessarily back the favorite; instead, he would search for horses whose odds might not fully reflect their winning chances based on his analysis.

5. Weather and Ground Conditions:

Weather plays a crucial role in horse racing, and the Grand National is no exception. Bloom would incorporate data about likely ground conditions, given the typical weather at Aintree in April. Horses that excel on soft or heavy ground would be flagged in his analysis.

He would use weather forecasting data alongside his horse performance data to adjust his predictions. If rain is expected, he would elevate horses known to perform well in muddy, testing conditions. Similarly, if the ground is good, he’d favor horses with better speed and less emphasis on endurance.

Conclusion:

Finding the Grand National winner is no easy feat, but Tony Bloom’s data-driven approach would give him an edge. By combining statistical models with insight into trainers, jockeys, market movements, and environmental factors, Bloom would create a predictive model far more accurate than those relying on gut feelings or surface-level analysis. His unique ability to blend knowledge with data would make him a formidable player in the world of horse racing, even in a race as notoriously unpredictable as the Grand National.

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The Really Easy Way to Pick the Grand National Winner

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The Really Easy Way to Pick the Grand National Winner The Grand National is one of the most exciting and unpredictable horse races in the world. Each year, millions of people place their bets, hoping to pick the winner from a field of 40 runners. While some rely on the luck of the draw, others seek out methods and strategies to narrow down their selection. Here’s a really easy way to pick the Grand National winner, along with some wise words from a professional gambler.

1. Look at Horses with Previous Grand National Experience:

One of the best tips for picking a Grand National winner is to focus on horses that have run in the race before. This is not just because of the distance (a grueling 4 miles and 2½ furlongs) but also due to the unique nature of the Aintree fences. These fences are larger and more intimidating than the average racecourse hurdles. Horses with previous experience of tackling these obstacles are far more likely to know what they’re in for and may handle the challenge better.

Horses that have finished the race in the top five in previous years should always be on your radar. They’ve proven they can stay the course and have the stamina and jumping ability required.

2. Focus on Horses Aged 8 to 11:

The Grand National is a marathon, and it requires a horse that has both youth and experience. Historically, horses aged between 8 and 11 have the best track record in the race. This age range combines peak physical fitness with sufficient racing experience to deal with the demands of Aintree. Younger horses, while full of energy, often lack the stamina, while older horses may struggle to maintain their form over such a long distance.

3. Check the Weight Carried:

The Grand National is a handicap race, meaning horses carry different weights depending on their ability. Those considered the best will carry more weight, which can make the race even more difficult. However, history shows that horses carrying 11 stone or less tend to fare better.

A horse burdened with over 11 stone is likely to find the final stages of the race tough, especially on soft ground. Stick to horses that are carrying weights within a manageable range to increase your chances of finding the winner.

4. Follow the Form:

It’s crucial to study the horse’s recent form leading up to the Grand National. Look for horses that have been performing well in long-distance chases, particularly over three miles or more. A horse that has been running well in these races is more likely to have the stamina for the Grand National.

Also, take note of the conditions under which the horse has performed best. If rain is forecast, look for horses that have shown an ability to handle soft or heavy ground.

5. Trust the Jockey and Trainer Combo:

The Grand National is a team effort, and a successful jockey and trainer combination can make a significant difference. Look for trainers who have a strong track record in the race and pair that with an experienced jockey. Some jockeys, like Ruby Walsh and Leighton Aspell, have become synonymous with Grand National success, and their ability to navigate the race is invaluable.

Wise Words from a Professional Gambler:

A professional gambler once said, “The Grand National is a puzzle, but not an unsolvable one. Stick to horses aged 8 to 11, carrying less than 11 stone, and with proven stamina in long-distance chases. The field is large, but so are the clues.”

When asked about the importance of odds, the gambler added, “Don’t get drawn in by the big prices. The winner often comes from the middle of the market. You want a horse around 10/1 to 20/1—big enough to give you a return but not so long a shot that you’re banking on a miracle.”

Conclusion:

While the Grand National is never an easy race to predict, you can certainly improve your chances by focusing on the factors that matter—experience, age, weight, form, and jockey-trainer partnerships. By following these simple steps and keeping an eye on the odds, you’ll put yourself in a much better position to pick the Grand National winner and, with a little luck, celebrate a big win!

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horse racing

5 Horse Trainers Who Love To Bet On Their Horses

5 Most Famous Grand National Winners: Legends of the Aintree Racecourse

Grand National Winner Predictor 2025

How Would Tony Bloom Find the Grand National Winner?

The Really Easy Way to Pick the Grand National Winner

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