Willie Mullins’ charge Snowy Morning continues to be well backed for the Grand National following the Irish trainer’s assertion earlier this month that the Aintree race would be the horse’s target and not the Gold Cup.

The eight year old gelding was favourite for the Hennessy at Newbury in November but fell at the seventh fence behind Denman. That was Snowy Morning’s only outing over fences this season and Mullins now intends keeping the horse over hurdles until the National weights are released.

This tactic has previously worked well with Hedgehunter and Snowy Morning has proved no slouch over the smaller obstacles recording victories at Fairyhouse and Punchestown since falling at Newbury.

Is he worth a bet?

Whilst Snowy Morning’s exploits over obstacles have been creditable this season I would want to see him perform with credit back over the fences before considering backing him at near favouritism for the Grand National.

After a courageous 10 length second to Denman in the Sun Alliance Chase at the Cheltenham Festival last year he ended the season seemingly over the top with a disappointing run at Punchestown. Next came the fall at Newbury so the gamble seems to be based on his potential rather than what he has achieved over fences.

The Grand National handicapper is unlikely to take many chances with a horse who has got within ten lengths of Denman at level weights and it may be that Mullins’ horse will need another year of experience to replace Hedgehunter as the yard’s number one contender.

Snowy Morning is currently a 16/1 chance with Paddy Power.

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