Inothewayurthinkin, the seven-year-old winner of the Cheltenham Gold Cup, has been scratched from the upcoming Randox Grand National, which will take place on April 5, 2025. This decision marks a significant shift in the dynamics of the race, as the exciting gelding had quickly become the favorite following his stunning victory at Cheltenham just a week ago.
On March 14, 2025, Inothewayurthinkin triumphed at Cheltenham at odds of 15/2, pulling ahead of Galopin Des Champs to win by six lengths. This performance led bookmakers to identify him as a formidable contender for the Grand National, making him a 3-1 favorite with some predicting he might have been the shortest-priced favorite in the history of the race.
However, trainer Gavin Cromwell, alongside owner JP McManus, made the decision to withdraw Inothewayurthinkin due to concerns regarding his age and the physical demands of competing just a week after such a significant race. Cromwell explained, "We’ve decided to take Inothewayurthinkin out of the Grand National. He’s only seven and we’ve worked so hard on his jumping this season that we feel it just might be a backward step to run him at Aintree." The trainer emphasized the importance of safeguarding the horse's future, adding that they were delighted with the Gold Cup win and the long-term success it potentially indicates for the horse.
Inothewayurthinkin may still have a chance to compete in the Punchestown Gold Cup later in April, where he could face Galopin Des Champs again, providing further opportunity to prove his mettle. Cromwell indicated that they would monitor Inothewayurthinkin's recovery and consider the Punchestown race in due course.
The withdrawal marks a notable change in the Grand National betting landscape, having caused a shuffle in the odds as 67 horses remain in contention. New favorites such as last year's Irish Grand National winner Intense Raffles have emerged, taking 7-1 odds with Iroko at 8-1 and I Am Maximus, last year's winner, priced at 10-1. Cromwell has other entries for the Grand National, including Stumptown and Vanillier, both of whom performed well at Cheltenham.
Continuing with the excitement surrounding the Grand National, trailblazing rider Bryony Frost has secured a ride on former Cheltenham Festival winner Stay Away Fay, trained by Paul Nicholls. The eight-year-old, with a rating of 150, is currently priced at 66-1 and has raced successfully over fences, though his form has dipped since his victory in the Albert Bartlett in 2023. Stay Away Fay will carry a light weight of 10st 9lbs, which may give him an advantage.
Paul Nicholls is set to saddle another four horses for the Grand National, including Kandoo Kid ridden by Harry Cobden, Threeunderthrufive ridden by Harry Skelton, Hitman ridden by Freddie Gingell, and Bravemansgame ridden by James Reveley.
Despite the excitement surrounding the upcoming race, the absence of Inothewayurthinkin leaves a gap in the competition. Cromwell expressed his contentment with the performance of his stable at Cheltenham, remarking on their success against what appeared to be a frustrating week before the Gold Cup. As discussions continue about the best course of action for Inothewayurthinkin's career, the focus now shifts to the remaining contenders as they prepare for what promises to be an exhilarating Grand National.
