The John Smith’s Grand National is just days away and there is a lot of interesting news filtering through the racing grapevine that will be fascinating for both armchair punters and professional racing experts.
Perhaps the most important recent development have been the declarations that were announced today, the five-day stage.
With a maximum of 40 horses allowed to run in the big race at Aintree there are a number of anxious owners, trainers and jockeys waiting to see if their horses make the final cut.
The big news, as www.online-betting-guide.co.uk are reporting, at the five day declaration stage was the withdrawal of Welsh Grand National winner, Synchronised. The Jonjo O’Neill-trained horse, stablemate of last year’s winner Don’t Push It, was scratched from the race without a reason forthcoming from the yard.
Another significant horse that was withdrawn was Notre Pere. In this case, trainer Barry Potts decided that the ground conditions would be too quick for his charge and will instead target the Irish Grand National or Punchestown, given suitable going.
Other notable withdrawals include Midnight Chase, Scotsirish, Ballytrim, Nedzer’s Return, Frankie Figg and One Cool Cookie.
At this point those waiting for a place include Arbor Supreme, Our Monty and Royal Rosa.
Having finished second at Fairyhouse recently Arbor Supreme looks certain to pick up the 39th place in the race leaving it between the other two, who haven’t run since the weights were declared, to battle for the final runners position.
Official handicapper Phil Hall will decide which horse gets the final spot and there will be a few more behind them waiting in the wings to see if any other runners withdraw in the next few days.
