I think the word I would use to describe this year’s lineup is “intriguing”. Moreso than in previous years, there seems to be a lot more “experimental” runners, which gives this years renewal a fairly different feel.
Banbridge, Firefox, Champ Kiely, Oscars Brother, Jagwar, Jordans and Panic Attack are not what you might call “typical” National runners, even by modern standards and while I don’t believe all of them should be anywhere near a Grand National field; they certainly give the race a different complexion this year.
While I do believe the data from the last two years has been overblown (the idea that you need to be Grade 1 standard to have a chance), I don’t think you can overstate the significance of Noble Yeats’ win. That result has had a profound effect on the race and the type of horse being aimed at the National.