Tiger Roll Remains Grand National Fav Following Weights Announcement

BHA handicapper Martin Greenwood released the eagerly awaited weights for the 2020 Aintree Grand National at St. George’s Hall in Liverpool on Tuesday and now there is a question mark on whether Tiger Roll will take part.

The two-time champion must carry top weight this April as he bids to complete a record-breaking treble, but has only had his weight compressed by 1lb meaning he will have to carry 11st 10lb.

The people’s horse is now rated 11lb greater than his second Aintree victory which is certain to make his mission all the more difficult.

He remains 5/1 to win this year’s race.

Owner Michael O’Leary’s racing manager and brother Eddie said before the weights came out that they wouldn’t be running Tiger Roll if he has to carry top weight. Now that the news is official, it will be a waiting game to see if the Gigginstown team attempt the Grand National treble.

Jessica Harrington’s Magic Of Light was runner-up to Tiger Roll last year and has received mark of 158, so she will run off a weight of 10st 12lb for another crack at the title.

Magic Of Light is 16/1 to win the world’s most famous steeplechase and only finished just 2¾ lengths behind Tiger Roll in 2019.

Tiger Roll has a big contender to be worried about in Kimberlite Candy, who won the Grade Three Handicap Chase at Warwick last month for trainer Tom Lacey, pulling away from his rivals to win by ten lengths.

Kimberlite Candy is the 14/1 second favourite and is set to carry 10st 4lb.

As soon as the weights were released, some shrewd punters were quick to get on Any Second Now at 33/1 and as a result he has been trimmed into 25/1. The J.P McManus owned 8-year old will carry 10st 6lb should he run in what would be his first attempt around the Liverpool track.

*Prices correct at time of publication