Brian Ellison’s Definitly Red is amongst the favourites in the 2020 Randox Health Grand National thanks to his wide-margin weekend win at Kelso on Saturday afternoon. The popular veteran was somewhat unlucky to have been knocked out of the famous steeplechase three years ago and as such will be looking to complete unfinished business when he lines up at Aintree on April 4th.
Following the win at Kelso, trainer Ellison said: “I’ve backed him for the National.” The trainer is more than likely onto the 33-1 that was up for grabs prior to Definitly Red’s success at Kelso. The chestnut’s price was immediately slashed to best odds of 20/1, many operators 16-1 or even shorter.
“I’ve always thought the race would suit him, as he’s a proper stayer,” Ellison said. “He’s got plenty going for him, he’s got a nice weight, 10st 12lb, but you need luck.”
The 11-year-old had little in the way of luck in the 2017 Grand National, the runner two points off being favourite but losing his chance at Becher’s Brook when The Young Master right in front of him. Danny Cook managed to return to the horse’s back after shooting up into the air, however the saddle had slipped by this point and the pair were forced to pull up after the next jump.
Definitly Red’s preparations for the 2017 National included a win in the Grimthorpe Chase at Doncaster, however this year’s renewal was held in very testing conditions and was won by Captain Chaos.
Definitly Red is a general 14/1 shot across most bookies for the 2020 Randox Health Grand National which takes place in less than five weeks’ time.
