Denman and the 2009 Grand National: Will it happen?
March 17th, 2008The various connections of 2008 Gold Cup winner have been suggesting (and then changing their minds) that Denman will take part in the Grand National at some stage in his career, possibly as soon as 2009.
Part owner Harry Findlay has stated he thinks the horse’s top class jumping would be a big asset in a race like the Grand National and this prompted Coral to quote Denman as short as 10/1 favourite for the 2009 National.
It looks as though the owner might now be having second thoughts and the trainer doesn’t seem too keen at this point either but it’s safe to say that the possibility of this top class horse running in the National does get the imagination whirring.
How much weight would he have to give away if he were to run? How many horses would be out of the handicap? Could he possibly win?
It would be a great sight to see but I have a feeling that Paul Nicholls might just win this argument and the Gold Cup will remain the focus of this horse’s attention.
Would you like to see Denman in the National? Give us your insight into the idea of a Gold Cup winner heading the weights and let us know if you think he could possibly pull off a famous double.
Stephen Says:
March 18th, 2008 at 8:09 pm
I personally wouldn’t like to see Denman in the National. He should stick to the Gold Cup where he belongs.
It would make a mockery of the handicap.
I don’t think he would win anyway as he seemed to be wandering and getting tired at the end of 3m 2f in the Gold Cup.
The National is a special world wide event, putting Denman in would dilute the race into a farce.
crisp 73 Says:
March 18th, 2008 at 11:37 pm
Would be interesting to see what handicapper gave him! 12st plus? Personally I don’t think any horse could give away 18lbs in the National now.
admin Says:
March 31st, 2008 at 11:21 am
Reports this week suggest that the two owners have compromised on Denman’s Grand National target and the big race of 2010 will now be on the agenda for ‘The Tank’, all being well.
If he wins the Gold Cup next year as well that should be an interesting looking handicap for the 2010 National!