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Nicky Henderson pessimistic about home hopes of Grand National glory
Nicky Henderson believes that British trainers face an uphill task in the Randox Grand National on Saturday, 13th April 2024, the home team currently handling just seven horses which are guaranteed to make the cut for the famous steeplechase.
Scottish-based Corach Rambler triumphed in the 2023 Randox Grand National for trainer Lucinda Russell and was the first British horse to finish first past the post in the contest since 2017 when One For Arthur took the prize. With Irish runners dominating in the ante-post betting and the recent roll of honour, many believe that the prize will once again be heading over the Irish Sea. As things stand, Henderson has entered three for the 2024 renewal although of these, Dusart alone looks set to make it into the final selection with a rating of 150. Henderson’s other two entries are Mister Coffey (eighth in 2023) and Fantastic Lady, the trio currently each up for grabs at a general 100/1 (at time of writing). The trainer hinted that there’s a possibility that he may not be represented in the race at all this year and he was crystal clear regarding what he thought about the chances of the home team in the current line-up.
He said: “We’re not going to win it are we – and I’m not, because I haven’t got one in it.
“There’s nothing I can do about it and I’ve been trying to win it for 42 years, so I can tell you something about it, but that’s probably how not to win it.”
Over half of the present top forty are trained by either Gordon Elliott or Willie Mullins, however Henderson isn’t suggesting that any handler should be limited as to the number of runners they are allowed to enter into the race, an option which the BHA was considering for major handicap races this season.
Henderson added: “That was crazy. I wouldn’t agree with that unless they said Henderson is the only one who can have a runner!”
The trainer is finalising his plans for the upcoming Cheltenham Festival and he recognises that he is fortunate in having a supportive and loyal set of owners as well as some talented horses.
He added: “We’ve been very lucky and I have the best bunch of owners anyone can wish for.
“They are all great guys and great mates and great people. We have to enjoy it and that’s our game, this is an entertainment hobby – it’s their hobby and I have to make it entertaining.”
