The 2018 Gold Cup hero is said to be a doubt for the Aintree showpiece but punters are still keen.
After the release of the 2020 Grand National weights yesterday, Native River (14/1) has been the most backed in the market with 13% of bets in the last 24 hours.
However, connections of the horse appear to be fully focused on a final shot at the Cheltenham Gold Cup, which the 10-year-old won back in 2018. He’s currently a 12/1 shot for that race.
Owner Garth Broom suggested the three week gap between the Gold Cup and the Grand National might be a little too short this year, and warned punters against backing the Colin Tizzard-trained gelding.
The announcement of the weights for the great steeplechase have caused plenty of punters to ignore that advice. Native River has stood out as well handicapped having been given 11st 6lbs in the National.
By contrast, Gigginstown’s Eddie O’Leary said he was disappointed by the 11st 10bs given to the now legendary Tiger Roll, and warned it is 50-50 whether or not he will run.
The 10-year-old would be going after a third consecutive win in the race, this time off top weight. He remains the bookies’ favourite despite this, priced at 6/1.
Willie Mullins’ Irish National winner Burrows Saint (10st 10lb) follows the top two in the market at 16/1.
Oddschecker spokesperson Callum Wilson: “It sounds like connections of Native River are going to pass on the Gold Cup and Grand National double bid this year, but punters are still taking a chance at 14/1.
“You’d think Garth Broom and Colin Tizzard would be tempted by the allotted weight, but we might have to wait until next year to see Native River get a shot at the £1million prize.”
Get more insight and previews for the race on our Grand National tips page.
