- Hewick granted top weight at Grand National
- Trainer Hewick sets his sights on hat-trick
- Weight increase for Corach Rambler
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Hewick granted top weight for Grand National as Hanlon targets hat-trick
Trainer John Hanlon is setting his sights on a memorable hat-trick for the King George VI Chase winner, Hewick, who has been granted top weight at the Grand National.
Hewick, known for his thrilling victory at Kempton and his status as one of the leading contenders for the Cheltenham Gold Cup, will shoulder 11st 12lb for the National on April 13.
“I anticipated he’d carry top weight. It’s to be expected, and I believe he merits it,” remarked Hanlon.
Among the 87 entrants for the gruelling four-and-a-quarter-mile race at Aintree, last year’s champion, Corach Rambler, has been assigned 11st 2lb, a notable increase from his winning weight of 10st 5lb. Meanwhile, the 2023 runner-up, Vanillier, will bear 10st 8lb, a modest 2lb bump from the previous year.
Conflated, among the contenders from Gordon Elliott’s stable, sits second in the handicap with 11st 9lb, while 2022 victor, Noble Yeats, carries one pound less.
Monbeg Genius, a favoured contender, is one of six entries set at 10st 4lb. However, controversy surrounds the gelding, owned by former Tory peer Michelle Mone and her husband Doug Barrowman, who are under investigation for their involvement in the supply of personal protective equipment during the pandemic.
In a sport where top National Hunt racehorses can fetch sums exceeding £500,000, Hewick stands out as a bargain buy, acquired for a mere £800. The Irish-trained horse has already amassed an impressive record, securing victories in the Bet365 Gold Cup, Galway Plate, and American Grand National.
“I believe the distance will suit him. He’ll tackle the Gold Cup first, and God willing, he’ll emerge unscathed. If he does, he’ll definitely head to Aintree,” expressed Hanlon.
“The National, the Gold Cup, and the King George at Kempton – these are the three major events in England. It’s exhilarating to have a contender there,” he added.
As the Grand National draws near, the stage is set for an electrifying showdown. For more on horse racing check out our top list.
Cheltenham Gold Cup: Latest odds
At the time of writing, Hewick is priced at 14/1 with bet365 to win the Cheltenham Gold Cup.
| Odds | |
| Galopin Des Champs | 4/5 |
| Fastorslow | 9/2 |
| Shishkin | 8/1 |
| Gerri Colombe | 10/1 |
| LHomme Press | 10/1 |
| Hewick | 14/1 |
| Corach Rambler | 16/1 |
| Gentlemansgame | 16/1 |
| Bravemansgame | 16/1 |
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Grand National: Latest odds
At time of writing, Coral have Hewick priced at 25/1 to win the Grand National.
| Odds | |
| I Am Maximus | 10/1 |
| Vanillier | 10/1 |
| Corach Rambler | 12/1 |
| Mahler Mission | 14/1 |
| Kitty’s Light | 16/1 |
| Monbeg Genius | 16/1 |
| Noble Yeats | 16/1 |
| Capodanno | 20/1 |
| Galvin | 20/1 |
| Meetingofthewaters | 20/1 |
| Minella Indo | 20/1 |
| Panda Boy | 20/1 |
| Ain’t That a Shame | 25/1 |
| Chemical Energy | 25/1 |
| Hewick | 25/1 |
| Mr Incredible | 25/1 |
| Nassalam | 25/1 |
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