Dan Skelton Aims for Historic £5 Million Prize at Scottish Grand National

Dan Skelton is poised to make history as he targets the £5 million prize money mark in British jumps racing, a feat no trainer has achieved before. Currently the UK’s champion trainer over jumps, Skelton recently surpassed £4 million in prize money and is only £200,000 away from his ambitious goal. This weekend, he will send five runners to Ayr, including key contenders in the Scottish Grand National, as he seeks to fill the last gaps in his record-breaking campaign.

The Guardian

Skelton's stable has seen remarkable success this season, winning at 39 of the 41 jumping tracks in Britain. The only remaining venues where he has yet to secure a victory are Perth and Plumpton. At Ayr, Skelton has four significant entries, including Diamond Dealer and Twistthenightaway, who are expected to perform well in their respective races leading up to the Grand National. The marquee event is scheduled for 3:35 PM on Saturday, April 18, 2026.

Daily Record (Scotland)

Skelton expressed his determination, stating, “It’s never been done before so we’re going to give it our best shot.” He acknowledged the challenges at Plumpton but remains optimistic about his chances at Ayr. His brother, Harry Skelton, will ride several of the horses, including Twistthenightaway, who is favored to complete a hat-trick after a recent win.

The Guardian

While Skelton's achievements have been widely celebrated, some critics point out the pressure that comes with such high expectations. The competition remains fierce, particularly from established trainers like Willie Mullins, who has dominated the British trainers' title in previous seasons. Mullins has only one entry for the Scottish Grand National this year, indicating a shift in the competitive landscape.

The Guardian

There are varying opinions on the favorites for the Scottish Grand National. Kim Roque is currently favored by bookmakers after a strong performance at the Cheltenham Festival, while King Of Answers and Isaac des Obeaux are also considered strong contenders. The exact odds and predictions may fluctuate as the race day approaches.

Scottish Grand National 2026 date, time, runners and odds

As the jumps season nears its conclusion, Skelton will look to solidify his record at the Scottish Grand National and potentially at Sandown, where he hopes to secure the remaining prize money needed to reach his £5 million target. The outcome of this weekend's races will be pivotal in determining the final standings for the season.

Daily Record (Scotland)

• “It’s never been done before so we’re going to give it our best shot,” — Dan Skelton, Trainer

The Guardian

• “Castle Ivers is in good form and has been training well at home.” — Olly Murphy, Trainer

Skelton and Murphy Prepare for Ayr Scottish Grand National Meeting

• “The Four Sixes likes this race. He’s back down below his last winning mark and I’ve been happy” — Olly Murphy, Trainer

Skelton and Murphy Prepare for Ayr Scottish Grand National Meeting