The latest phase of scratchings for the Grand National has resulted in the removal of ten horses from the competition, leaving a field of 34 contenders gearing up for the event at Aintree. Horse racing enthusiasts are eagerly anticipating the prestigious £1 million National Hunt race, set to take place in less than a month. The challenging four-mile, two-and-a-half furlong race will feature top staying chasers tackling 30 fences.
Since 2024, the field size for the National has been capped at 34 horses after a reduction from 40 entrants. The recent scratchings have provided insight into the potential lineup for the race on April 11, with a total of ten horses being withdrawn at this stage.
Leading up to the recent update, three horses had already been pulled out, including Grey Dawning, Resplendent Grey, and Gentlemansgame. Subsequently, seven more horses, such as Western Fold, Croke Park, Better Days Ahead, Search For Glory, Handstands, Pic Roc, and Leave of Absence, have been removed from the competition.
Among the remaining 34 horses, the formidable duo of I Am Maximus and Grangeclare West, winner of the 2024 Bobbyjo Chase and third-place finisher in the previous year’s event, are expected to headline the field. However, the final lineup may still see changes as some horses may opt to compete in the Irish National on April 6.
One of the prominent contenders could be Haiti Couleurs, the Welsh and Irish National winner. Trainer Rebecca Curtis is keen on entering the gelding in the Grand National following his recent performance at Cheltenham. She expressed her excitement about the prospect, emphasizing Haiti Couleurs’ proficiency in National-type races and the plan to have him race at Aintree if he maintains his fitness.
Curtis highlighted that many horses participate in both Cheltenham and Aintree events and noted the similarities in scheduling compared to the previous year when Haiti Couleurs raced at both venues. The trainer is optimistic about the gelding’s chances, provided he continues to train well in the upcoming weeks.
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