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Inothewayurthinkin withdrawn from 2025 Grand National
Inothewayurthinkin, the recent victor of the 2025 Cheltenham Gold Cup, has been withdrawn from the upcoming Grand National at Aintree. This decision, made by trainer Gavin Cromwell and owner J.P. McManus, reflects a strategic approach to the horse’s racing career, prioritising its well-being and future prospects over immediate accolades.
Triumphant at Cheltenham
On March 14, 2025, Inothewayurthinkin delivered a stellar performance in the Cheltenham Gold Cup, securing victory by an impressive six lengths over the favourite, Galopin Des Champs. This win not only disrupted Galopin Des Champs’ pursuit of a third consecutive Gold Cup but also underscored Inothewayurthinkin’s rising prominence in the racing sphere.Notably, Inothewayurthinkin became the first supplementary entry to clinch the Gold Cup, having been added to the field on March 8 for a fee of £25,000. This victory marked the second Gold Cup win for owner J.P. McManus, following Synchronised’s triumph in 2012.
Decision to Withdraw from the Grand National
Despite the momentum from Cheltenham, the connections of Inothewayurthinkin have opted to withdraw from the Grand National, scheduled for April 5, 2025. Trainer Gavin Cromwell and owner J.P. McManus assessed the demands of the Aintree race and concluded that it would be prudent to bypass this year’s event. Cromwell expressed that, while the horse emerged well from the Cheltenham race, they preferred to err on the side of caution, considering the Grand National’s challenging nature.
Historical Context and Influencing Factors
The decision is influenced by historical experiences, notably the tragic fate of Synchronised, also owned by McManus, who sustained a fatal injury during the 2012 Grand National after winning the Cheltenham Gold Cup. This precedent likely played a role in the cautious approach taken with Inothewayurthinkin. Additionally, the horse’s relatively young age of seven suggests that there will be future opportunities to tackle the Grand National, allowing for a more measured progression in its racing career.
Impact on the Grand National Field
Inothewayurthinkin’s withdrawal has notably altered the dynamics of the Grand National lineup. The horse was among 13 scratched from the race, leading to a reshuffling of the betting landscape. Intense Raffles, last season’s Irish Grand National winner, has now emerged as the new favourite, with odds reflecting its enhanced prospects. Other prominent horses, such as Galvin, Gentlemansgame, Monty’s Star, and Envoi Allen, were also withdrawn, further impacting the composition of the field.
Future Targets for Inothewayurthinkin
With the Grand National off the agenda, attention turns to alternative targets for Inothewayurthinkin. The Punchestown Gold Cup, scheduled later in April, is a likely objective. This race would provide a platform to capitalise on the horse’s current form while aligning with the connections’ cautious management strategy. Trainer Gavin Cromwell indicated that this option is under strong consideration, aiming to maintain the horse’s competitive edge without overexertion.
Reactions from the Racing Community
The withdrawal has elicited mixed reactions within the racing community. While some enthusiasts express disappointment at not witnessing the Gold Cup winner compete in the Grand National, many commend the decision as a responsible and horse-centric approach. The welfare of racehorses has become an increasingly prominent consideration, and the choice to prioritise Inothewayurthinkin’s long-term health over immediate racing opportunities aligns with this evolving ethos.
Conclusion
Inothewayurthinkin’s withdrawal from the 2025 Grand National underscores a strategic and welfare-oriented approach by its connections. Following a landmark victory in the Cheltenham Gold Cup, the decision to forego the Grand National reflects a commitment to the horse’s well-being and a long-term racing strategy. As the racing season progresses, anticipation builds for Inothewayurthinkin’s future engagements, with the Punchestown Gold Cup on the horizon as a potential next chapter in this promising horse’s career.
