The defections of two Willie Mullins-trained runners in Classic Getaway and Bronn has ensured that Martin Brassil’s Panda Boy, a best-priced 14/1 for the Aintree showpiece, is now guaranteed a run in the 2024 Grand National. The eight-year-old was provisionally number 35, with the field reduced to a maximum of 34 for this year’s renewal.
However, those two non runners will ensure he is number 33 at most on the racecard, with sprinklings of support in the markets ensuring he is a general 12/1 (bet365 14/1) for the big race. As a grey horse, he is sure to be popular with once-a-year punters, with his best form this season seeing him finish a staying on second to Meetingofthewaters in the Paddy Power Chase at Leopardstown in December. He was also fifth to I Am Maximus in last season’s Irish Grand National.
One of the primary British hopes, Kitty’s Light is still waiting on the outside even with the two absences above him in the weights. Christian Williams’ 2023 Scottish National hero will move up to number 36 as things stand, and will currently be booked on the waiting list unless any more horses are withdrawn.
Henry De Bromhead and Rachael Blackmore memorably combined to win the race in 2021 with Minella Times. Their former Gold Cup winner Minella Indo will almost certainly be the horse they partner with this year, although the last horse guaranteed a run now will also hail from De Bromhead’s yard in Eklat De Rire a former Grade 3 winning novice chaser who was most recently pulled up at the Cheltenham Festival.
The first substitute will currently be Chambard, a former winner of the Kim Muir at the Cheltenham Festival for Venetia Williams. He would be another to boost potential British chances despite currently trading as a 100/1 shot in places.
Grand National Favourites – Assessing the Top 5 Market Leaders for Aintree
The Grand National continues to get closer and closer, with anticipation building to the new look race on Saturday, 13th April. We look at the top five contenders according to the market below, assessing their strengths and weaknesses. Corach Rambler The horse even non-racing fans will be aware of heading into the 2024 Grand National…
Tue 02 Apr 2024Looking For More Racing Info? Check Out Our Racecards & Top Tips Sections
Make sure you’re following us on all our social media platforms to keep up to date with all the latest horse racing news and the best tips.