Dave McIntyre was joined on OTB AM by Newstalk Sport's John Duggan, who is hoping to continue his winning streak when it comes to tips.

Fresh from his largesse from picking Patrick Reed as the Masters champion in Augusta, John has decided to turn his attention to the world's most famous horse race. He believes that there is reason as well as rhyme to picking a winner.

"It's a bit more nuanced [than just picking a random horse] - though the first ever winner of the race in 1839 was called 'Lottery'! I always find that the Grand National is about a few things - it's about being able to jump the unique fences at Aintree. The fences are not as forgiving as they were in the 1970s when you watch Red Rum and Crisp on YouTube.

"You need to stay - it is four miles and two furlongs - it's the longest race that they have. You need to be able to stay - the stamina is important. You need to be able to jump well and you need to have a bit of class. 

"For a long period of time, horses under eleven stone were generally the ones that were favoured. I think that the softer the ground - and the ground is a little bit soft this week - will bring lower-weighted horses into it."

 

John's tips for the Grand National:

 

Seeyouatmidnight - Sandy Thomson - 16/1

 

Anibale Fly - A.J. Martin 11/1

 

Total Recall - Willie Mullins - 10/1

 

Outside bets:

 

Raz De Maree - R M Power - 40/1

 

Carlingford Lough - J E Kiely - 50/1

 

Valseur Lido - H de Bromhead - 50/1

 

John also tipped Minella Rocco, who has since been withdrawn from the race.

You can watch OTB AM live at the top of the page from 7:45am, or on our YouTube, Facebook or Periscope channels.