Leading hopes still in National contention

Tuesday 7 April 2015, 6:21am

Pre-post favourite Shutthefrontdoor heads the list of 65 horses still in Grand National contention at the latest declaration stage.

Despite having been off the track since winning at Carlisle in November, Jonjo O'Neill's eight-year-old is well-supported for the world's most famous steeplechase at Aintree on Saturday.

He is to be ridden by legendary jockey Tony McCoy who has said he will immediately retire if he wins the race for a second time.

Last year's Cheltenham Gold Cup winner Lord Windermere remains at the head of the weights for trainer Jim Culloty, who is also set to run Spring Heeled.

Rocky Creek is the major hope among four contenders for champion trainer Paul Nicholls who also set to run Unioniste, Rebel Rebellion and Mon Parrain.

Nicky Henderson will not have a runner in the Aintree spectacular after confirming Hadrian's Approach would miss the race with a leg injury.

Major contenders still in the mix include last year's one-two Pineau De Re and Balthazar King and Cheltenham Festival winners The Druids Nephew and Cause Of Causes.

The last horse now guaranteed a run in the 40-strong field is Royale Knight, ahead of Baileys Concerto and Duke Of Lucca on the same weight of 10st 2lb (64.5kg).

– PAA

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