Rachael Blackmore partners Ain't That A Shame as she bids for a second victory in the Grand National on Saturday.
The Tipperary jockey famously became the first ever female jockey to win the world's most famous steeplechase when she partnered Minella Times to success two years ago.
And Blackmore believes her mount, who is trained by Henry de Bromhead, has "a lovely profile for the race". Ain't That A Shame was available at odds of 8/1 generally for the Grand National at the time of writing.
READ MORE: Grand National full race card and tips - list of runners at Aintree on Saturday
Speaking exclusively to Betfair about the race, Blackmore said: "It’s massive. It’s very cool. I have to say coming back here, you get the sense of the crowds and atmosphere, you almost feel a part of it.
"To say you have won a special race like this, there are so many different variables in a race like this and so much is out of a jockey’s control. It is very unique in that sense and exciting to be a part of.
"I love the Grand National. It's a class race, all that goes with it and all the history. It's a great feeling, getting ready for the race again, knowing that I was lucky enough to win it before.
"Nobody expects to win the Grand National.
"You go there hoping, but you need so many things to fall your way. You only get one shot at most at winning it every year, if you are lucky enough to even get one shot at it, and even when you do, you usually have just one chance in 40 of winning it.
"There's such a buzz in the weighing room, so much anticipation. And when you go out to ride in it, nobody is putting pressure on you. Go out and enjoy yourself.
"Ain't That A Shame has a lovely profile for the race.
"He was unlucky to be just beaten in the Munster National at Limerick in October, and it wasn't my best day in the saddle when I finished fourth on him in the Paddy Power Chase at Leopardstown over Christmas.
"But he won nicely at Gowran the last day, and it was no harm that the runner-up came out and won at Fairyhouse there at the weekend.
"You don't really know how a horse will handle the track or the fences until you get out there, but he had a pop over the National fences at The Curragh, and he went well. I'd be confident that he will take to the fences fine.
"He travels well through his races, which is a big help. You're just hoping that you can get into a nice position and find a nice racing rhythm over the first few fences. I am hopeful that he can.
"After that, you never know, it's the Grand National, but he has his chance and I'm very much looking forward to it."
Ain't That A Shame was backed into favourite for the race on Friday, with Nicola McGeady of Ladbrokes commenting: “The ‘Blackmore effect’ appears to be sweeping the nation as everyone seems to be getting behind Ain’t That A Shame in the Grand National.
“Blackmore made history by becoming the first woman to win the famous race two years ago and the public are backing her to repeat that feat. As bookmakers, it’s certainly a result we are praying to avoid.”
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