Grand National LIVE: Two horses withdrawn as punters flock to Aintree for big race | Racing | Sport

Rachael Blackmore is sure to be popular among annual punters this afternoon, and the Irish superstar is hopeful of a big run from her mount, Minella Indo.

She told Betfair: “I’m delighted to have such a fantastic ride in the Grand National. It’s such an important, special race. It’s brilliant to be riding in the race.

“I think if you are down at the start in the Grand National, you have as good a chance as anyone. But to be down at the start on a former Gold Cup winner will be brilliant. “Minella Indo is a very classy horse who I’m hoping will take to Aintree well. It was really disappointing that he didn’t get to run at Cheltenham, when the Cross-Country Chase was abandoned. But he’s in great order and we’re really hoping that he can run a big race. It should be a great race. It always is.”