Soft going denies a chance for the popular horse to run in the big one.
The first dropout of the Grand National following the declarations has proven to be Minella Rocco, with the soft ground proving a sticking point with connections.
It’s a setback for punters as they have been plenty backing the likeable horse, with the eight-year-old in the Top Five of horses with the total amount of stakes placed on them.
The top weight will be carried now by Blaklion, who remains one of the favourites for the prestigious race at 12/1.
The first reserve is Thunder and Roses, who goes straight in at a best price 80/1 to come home first. The news gives J.J Slevin his first chance in the biggest race of them all.
Elsewhere, the market leader continues to be Anibale Fly at 11/1, who has continued to receive love following the declarations. Followed shortly after is Blaklion, Tiger Roll and Total Recall, all a best price of 12/1.
Oddschecker spokesperson George Elek: “It's back to the drawing board for punters who had decided that Minella Rocco was the one to take Grand National glory this year.
“There had been steady support for the horse, with his odds being clipped in over the past week but the faith was clearly unfounded.”
