Nick Rockett
Defending Randox Grand National champion Nick Rockett has been withdrawn from this year's race after developing a cough. Trainer Patrick Mullins confirmed the decision on Wednesday, opting instead to target the Punchestown Festival. First reserve Pied Piper will take the horse's place in Saturday's lineup.
Reported by AI
Horse racing owner Stuart Andrew remains unhurried about preparing last year's Randox Grand National winner Nick Rockett for a title defense. The nine-year-old gelding could make his seasonal debut in the Boodles Cheltenham Gold Cup on March 13. Andrew views the race as an ideal preparation despite it being the horse's first outing.