Grand National Favourite to be Ridden By Ruby Walsh

Tagged under: Grand National

After much speculation, Ruby Walsh has finally announced that he will be on board leading fancy Big Fella Thanks in the John Smith's Grand National in two weeks time. Sixth in the 2009 race behind Mon Mome, the 8 year old has had this year's event as his target ever since. The Paul Nicholl's trained gelding has had a perfect preparation for the big race. Only three runs this term,culminating in an impressive victory over stablemate Pasco, when racing over a trip of only 2m 4f. In an interview with the Irish Examiner Walsh stated of the horse: "He started this season off 150 and has been give 146 in the National and you would hope he will prove extremely competitive, especially after his impressive victory over an inadequate trip at Newbury recently". Beaten just over 22 length behind Mon Mome, the gelding will be 10lb better off with the Gold Cup third, and must have a great chance of turning the tables in this year's contest. Walsh was expected to ride Tricky Trickster on Saturday April 10th before that horse ran disappointingly behind Imperial Commander in the Cheltenham showpiece. Both horses were disputing favouritism for the National just over a week ago but Big Fella Thanks is now a best price 8/1, whereas Tricky Trickster can be backed at a standout 20/1 with sportingbet.

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