Ruby Walsh: How I'd add extra sparkle to Grand National
Part of me would love to see the National launched shortly after Christmas, with the Cheltenham Festival being the cut-off date for the new qualifications I would introduce.
MERSEY BEAT: Racegoers cheer as Jockey Paul Townend wins the Randox Grand National last year. Pic: by Christopher Furlong/Getty Images
Tuesday afternoon in Liverpool saw the launch of the 2025 Randox Grand National, and I doubt the unveiling of the weights surprised too many. I Am Maximus will have to carry top weight this time around in his attempt to win back-to-back Nationals, and his owner, JP McManus, looks to have a strong hold on the race with the likes of Inothewayurthinkin and Iroko giving him the top three in the ante-post betting.
Part of me would love to see the National launched shortly after Christmas, with the Cheltenham Festival being the cut-off date for the new qualifications I would introduce.
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