AINTREE is expecting dry, warm weather as its three-day Grand National meeting starts today – with a hint of history in the air. Retiring 19-time champion jockey AP McCoy is riding at the meeting for the final time and will be on Holywell in the Betfred Bowl.

He also rides Jezki as the horse takes on fellow former champion hurdler Rock On Ruby and this year’s Cheltenham runner-up Arctic Fire in the Aintree Hurdle.
The first action over the National fences sees amateur jockeys compete in the Fox Hunters’ Chase.
Sam Waley-Cohen rides leading contender Warne with the jockey looking to add to his fine record of five career wins over the big obstacles.
Holywell was fourth in last month’s Cheltenham Gold Cup and renews rivalry with dual King George VI Chase winner Silviniaco Conti, who finished seventh when favourite. (BBC Sport)