Expert prediction
American Grand National Picks, Odds, Betting Preview, Insights & Far Hills Picks (Oct 17)
Pick rationale
Analysis & key factors
- When: Saturday, October 17, 2026 @ 4:05 PM ET
- Where: Far Hills, New Jersey
- How to Watch: FanDuel TV
The significant races on the American horse racing schedule aren’t only centered around the upcoming Breeders’ Cup, as this weekend will be all about the most prestigious jumps race on the U.S. calendar. Far Hills will host the American Grand National, which is regarded as one of the most important steeplechases outside of Europe. You can find the latest odds available at the best horse racing betting sites and our American Grand National picks here.
American Grand National Stakes Odds
| Horse | Odds |
|---|---|
| Ziggle Pops | +1000 |
| Fil Dor | +600 |
| Mr Percy | +800 |
| James Du Berlais | +1500 |
| Western Fold | +200 |
| Zabeel Champion | +400 |
| Zanahiyr | +300 |
| Boldog | +2000 |
Latest odds taken from an Offshore Sportsbook. BetOnline markets open on the day of the race.
Race Information & Records
| Stat | Information |
|---|---|
| Race Distance | 2 5/8 Miles |
| Purse | $300,000 |
| Most Successful Trainer | Sanna Hendriks (5) |
| Most Successful Jockey | Jody Petty (3) |
ALSO SEE: Breeders’ Cup Classic Picks, Odds, Leading Contenders, Betting Insights & Analysis
American Grand National Stakes: Recent Winners
- 2025– Zanahiyr (Jack Kennedy/Gordon Elliott)
- 2024– Snap Decision (Graham Watters/Jack Fisher)
- 2023– Noah And The Ark (Harrison Beswick/Todd McKenna)
- 2022– Hewick (Jordan Gainford/John Hanlon)
- 2021– The Mean Queen (Richard Condon/Keri Brion)
American Grand National Stakes: Betting Preview
A small field of eight will go to post for America’s most famous steeplechase this weekend. The American Grand National is named after the prestigious race with the same name, which is held in Aintree. However, unlike the English race, a shorter distance of 2 2/5 miles will be covered, and the field will jump over just 14 obstacles.
Zanahiyr is the obvious starting point in his bid to defend the crown that he won 12 months ago. However, the fact that Jack Kennedy has opted for a stablemate would be a negative. The nine-year-old is yet to win since landing the American Grand National Stakes 12 months ago, and was easily beaten by a seven-length margin by the re-opposing Zabeel Champion in the G1 Iroquois Stakes.
Zabeel Champion has been an excellent performer since moving to the U.S., having also landed the G2 Gwathmey Hurdle at Middleburg. His previous effort over an inadequate two miles can be forgiven, and he is clearly expected to be competitive this weekend.
Fil Dor, previously with Gordon Elliott, was fifth in this race 12 months ago on his first attempt on U.S. turf. He has retained plenty of his ability, including when winning at Camden in November last year and being beaten just a neck in the G2 Mariann de Tajeda Memorial in October.
Western Fold is undeniably the most proven horse in this field, as Elliott chases a second straight win in the race. The seven-year-old was excellent over fences last season, winning the G1 Champion Novice Chase at the Punchestown Festival. He was also the winner of the Galway Plate over larger obstacles in Ireland. A return over hurdles shouldn’t damage his chances, having won plenty of ability, including a win in January 2024, beating D Art D Art.
American Grand National Stakes Picks
The horse that I’m most intrigued by in this year’s American Grand National Stakes is Mr Percy. The six-year-old was previously highly regarded by Joseph O’Brien, winning on the flat at the Curragh and landing the G2 Novice Hurdle at Fairyhouse, beating the very talented Fleur In The Park. Has looked high quality on three U.S. starts to date, racking up back-to-back wins at Saratoga in July and September. Looks primed for a bold showing.
Free Pick:
Far Hills Picks for October 17, 2026
| Race | Pick |
|---|---|
| R1 – Harry E. Harris Stakes | Secret Force |
| R2 – McDynamo Maiden Hurdle Stakes | San Hilario |
| R3 – G2 Peapack Hurdle | Blue Waters |
| R4 – Champion Hurdle Stakes | Vae Patron |
| R5 – G1 American Grand National Stakes | SEE ABOVE |
| R6 – John Forbes Memorial Stakes | Fleetfoot |
How to Bet On American Grand National Stakes
These are the best sportsbooks for US bettors to place wagers on the American Grand National Stakes at Far Hills:
Sportsbook ratings
BetOnline
RegionsAustraliaCanadaUnited States
No Strings Welcome Offer50% up to $250
Minimum deposit$10 Crypto
BetUS
RegionsCanadaUnited States
Welcome Bonus125% up to $2500
Minimum deposit$100
Lucky Rebel
RegionsCanadaUnited States
Welcome Bonus125% Free + 50 Free Spins
Minimum deposit$50
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