I Am Maximus Leads Grand National Lineup Following Nick Rockett's Withdrawal

I Am Maximus is at the forefront of the 34 declared runners for the Randox Grand National, seeking to replicate the achievement of Red Rum by regaining the title. Red Rum, trained by Ginger McCain, won the prestigious steeplechase in 1973, 1974, and 1977, with second-place finishes in 1975 and 1976. No horse has achieved this feat since. I Am Maximus, trained by Willie Mullins, won the Grand National two years ago with Paul Townend and finished second last year to stablemate Nick Rockett, who has been ruled out of this year's event due to a cough. I Am Maximus will wear cheekpieces for the second time, having first done so in December 2022. Mullins has a strong lineup, including Grangeclare West, Spanish Harlem, Lecky Watson, Champ Kiely, High Class Hero, Captain Cody, and Quai De Bourbon. The Rebecca Curtis-trained Haiti Couleurs is also vying for a historic win, as no horse has won the Welsh, Irish, and Aintree Nationals. Other notable contenders include Banbridge, Gerri Colombe, Firefox, Monty's Star, and Oscars Brother, bolstering Ireland's chances. Oliver Greenall and Josh Guerriero have high hopes with Iroko and Jagwar, both owned by JP McManus, who also has Cheltenham Festival winner Johnnywho on his team. Ben Pauling's Twig, who finished 10th last year, has rekindled his connections' National aspirations after winning the Becher Chase earlier this season. Pauling noted, 'He ran well last year but was too far back; this time, we aim to get him closer to the pace.' With no withdrawals at the 72-hour declaration stage, the final field is set, although Jimmy Mangan's Spillane's Tower may still run in Thursday's Racing Welfare Bowl Chase.