The latest stage of scratchings for the Grand National has seen ten horses withdrawn from the competition, leaving a field of 34 contenders set to compete at Aintree. Horse racing enthusiasts are gearing up for the prestigious £1 million National Hunt event, which is just around the corner. The challenging race covers a distance of four miles and two-and-a-half furlongs, featuring 30 fences to test the skills of the top staying chasers in the sport.
Since 2024, the field size for the Grand National has been capped at 34 horses, down from the previous limit of 40. With the latest round of scratchings, the lineup for the upcoming race on April 11 is taking shape, with a total of ten horses now out of contention.
The list of withdrawn horses includes notable names such as Grey Dawning, Resplendent Grey, and Gentlemansgame. Recent scratchings also include Western Fold, Croke Park, Better Days Ahead, Search For Glory, Handstands, Pic Roc, and Leave of Absence, bringing the final field size to 34 competitors.
Among the leading contenders are I Am Maximus and Grangeclare West, representing trainer Willie Mullins. However, the field is subject to further changes as some horses may opt to compete in the Irish National on April 6 instead. Oscars Brother is currently a top pick for that event.
One horse to watch is Haiti Couleurs, a potential British hopeful following victories in the Welsh and Irish Nationals. Trainer Rebecca Curtis has expressed excitement about the gelding’s prospects at Aintree, highlighting his strong performance in National-type races.
Looking ahead, Curtis stated, “I’m thrilled at the opportunity to run him in the National. If he continues to show fitness and form in the coming weeks, we will aim for Aintree. The plan is similar to last year when he competed in both Cheltenham and the Irish National.”
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