A frenetic, dramatic, and ultimately pulsating Randox Grand National was won in style by the progressive Corach Rambler (162+).

Despite visibly pulling himself up on the run-in, the winner covered the final half mile in 60.65secs. Of his closest pursuers, The Big Dog (158) was the only rival to keep going to any effect as he covered the same ground in 62.97secs, around 11 lengths slower.

The winner will again be aimed at the National next year but a route via a third successive Ultima Chase at Cheltenham may be blocked by the handicapper. This may force a tilt at the Gold Cup and, on this performance, reaching the places would be realistic. He is unbeaten in three starts at Cheltenham.

Noble Yeats (158) could only finish fourth on this occasion, although his defeat was more about not being able to stay in touch early on rather than how he finished his race as he covered the final half mile quicker than most, stopping the clock at 61.06secs.

Connections of Vanillier (160) will no doubt be harboring thoughts of going one place better as their gelding finished to the best effect, clocking 60.05secs for his finishing split. Gavin Cromwell’s gelding was too far back in the field when starting his challenge, a little like Noble Yeats.

Racing closer to the pace was a new weapon in the armory for Corach Rambler and may well lead to further improvement. If there is one to beat him next year, then it will be a new kid on the ‘Grand National’ block.