The current favourite for the 2009 Grand National, Denman, has been quoted as a non-runner in the race by his connections.

Trainer Paul Nicholls announced to the press that he wants to try and get Denman right to defend the Cheltenham Gold Cup and that should be the main focus of the horse’s training programme after the champion did not perform as was hoped at Kempton on Saturday.

Grand National handicapper Phil Smith has been informed to allow him to adjust his calculations before the publication of the weights for the Grand National on Tuesday.

In other Grand National news, another strong fancy for the race Joe Lively will also not be running. Colin Tizzard’s charge suffered a nasty cut in the Levy Board Chase and will probably be out for the remainder of the season.