There are always plenty of twists and turns on the run-up to the Grand National. Every year, injuries and the weather affect the potential runners and 2019 is no different.
Despite the final declaration stage taking place at 10am yesterday, Mall Dini was subsequently withdrawn. Making the announcement last night, Philip Reynolds, owner of Mall Dini, said: “Sadly he will not be able to run.
“Just before the start of the Red Rum Chase we heard that he has got a leg injury.”
It’s difficult not to feel for Reynolds who admits that he has been waiting for a Grand National runner all of his life.
He said “I’ve been waiting for a National runner all my life and I’ve lost him on the eve of the Grand National.
“I’m really upset, it’s not been a great year.”
That, however, paved the way for Reserve No. 1, Just A Par to take up the final spot. Trained by James Moffatt, the 100/1 outsider moved from trainer Paul Nicholls in November. The 12-year-old who ran in the 2017 National, finishing in 14th spot, has only had one run under his new trainer.
That was in the Becher Chase at Aintree in December where Just A Par ran a decent race to finish in 7th place. Moffatt is thrilled that Just A Par made the cut and tweeted his delight last night.
Thrilled Just A Par has got in the Grand National – Game on. pic.twitter.com/OXxYg0UmJG
— James Moffatt Racing (@JamesMoff1) April 4, 2019
Also in 2019 Grand National news is the sale of both Outlander and Don Poli. The former Gigginstown owned duo went to the Aintree sales last night.
Don Poli (66/1) was purchased by Darren Yates and has gone to trainer Phil Kirby. Darren Yates also purchased Blaklion last month but he was subsequently ruled out through injury. Clearly, Yates wants a Grand National runner and is willing to splash out £170,000 to get it.
Outlander (100/1) was purchased by Gowing’s Eleven and will go to trainer Richard Spencer from Gordon Elliott. He was purchased for £165,000. Both horses will run under their new silks for the National tomorrow.
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