Horse Racing: Marauder and Paddy's among national withdrawals

Red Marauder and Paddy’s Return, last year’s hero and villain, have both been confirmed as absentees from the Martell Grand National.

The withdrawal of 2001 winner Red Marauder had been expected as he was ruled out of the race last week by owner/trainer Norman Mason after failing to come to hand in time.

But early faller Paddy’s Return, who put nine contenders out of the Aintree marathon last year when he galloped riderless across the Canal Turn, has also been taken out of the April 6 race at the first forfeit stage by Ferdy Murphy.

One of his victims was co-favourite Moral Support, who was another of the 18 qualified horses whose withdrawal was announced today.

Others taken out include injured French star First Gold and Mark Pitman’s trio Cimarrone Cove, Dulas Bay and Ever Blessed.

A record total of 121 horses stand their ground, compared to 100 at this stage last year and just 80 three years ago.