So here we go again. Grand National week, which for Kitty’s Light could be memorable.
With the final 34 runners in place, the market is now set for Saturday’s off.
Not least, the role of Corach Rambler as favourite to defend his Aintree crown, at time of writing short but having sightly drifted at 6/1 with Betfred.
But this is the most famous steeplechase in the world, often delivering trips of majesty and on many occasions the run of a lifetime.
With that in mind, if the SP of Lucinda Russell’s 10yo does not appeal, here at BestofBets, let us throw a few considerations your way.
Kitty can deliver fairytale
A name who has been a steady mover in the markets, Kitty’s Light can deliver magic for trainer Christian Williams.
With his daughter Betsy winning her battle with leukaemia, the 8yo of R J Bedford and All Star Sports Racing brought much-needed cheer last spring.
A back-to-back winner in the Scottish Grand National and bet365 Gold Cup, Kitty’s Light was the toast of the Williams family and the paddock.
So could Kitty’s Light make his presence felt in the big one?
The only spanner in the works could be the forecast, which looks increasingly likely to bring heavier than soft ground.
Having been seventh in the Ultima on similar turf, the gelding has no other heavy ground experience, which could prompt a change of tack and indeed, tactics.
However, if he does run – and indications are that he will – Kitty’s Light could ensure there is not a dry eye in Liverpool on Saturday afternoon at 14/1 with William Hill, but threatening to shorten.
Ground may favour Nassalam
On the subject of the going, though with the fewest number of entries in National history, the ground could yet provide one of the sternest tests.
That may bring Nassalam into the picture.
Like Kitty’s Light, Gary Moore’s 7yo is already a National winner, victorious at Chepstow in the Welsh National back in December.
A trip just short of 3m7f, Aintree brings a further 5f, but on heavier ground the gelding has won the last two.
Beating Iron Bridge by an astonishing 34 lengths in South Wales, this is though, a very different and steeper task.
Still, a 20/1 shot with 888sport should be in good hands with Caoilin Quinn.
Delta still Works
A third consideration hovering around the 20s mark, Delta Work still has more than a dash of appeal.
A faller last year, Gordon Elliott’s veteran was in contention for places before his fumble at Fence 21.
However, this time around, the ground looks set to be a good deal softer, which should aid the gelding’s chances.
🏆 Noble Yeats wins the Randox Grand National
What a way to sign off for @swaleycohen! #ITVRacing | #GrandNational pic.twitter.com/lkl2ckLNau
— ITV Racing (@itvracing) April 9, 2022
Robbed of the chance to win the Cross Country at Cheltenham for the third time on the spin, Delta Work is winless since his trip to Gloucestershire in 2023.
Yet, now the same age as Noble Yeats was two years ago – finishing third behind the then 11yo in 2022 – Delta Work has the heart for a fight.
If the turf stays heavy, and if Delta jumps well, Elliott, looking to make history with a fourth National winner, could be in business at 20/1 with Betfred.
The 2024 Randox Grand National takes place on Saturday at 16:00 BST.
