Hewick leads the list of future National contenders for 2024

John ‘Shark’ Hanlon’s setback in withdrawing Hewick from April’s Grand National has not deterred racing pundits from marking up the horse as one to watch for the 2024 renewal. As the new jumps season gains momentum, grandnational.org.uk have identified four horses that could make an impact at the prestigious Aintree festival.

While the early ante-post Grand National favourites are often the previous year’s top finishers, it’s worth considering alternatives due to the increased weight burden that the likes of Corach Rambler will be saddled with in 2024. Hewick, with a commendable track record that includes victories in the Galway Plate, bet365 Gold Cup, and American Grand National, emerges as a strong contender under Hanlon’s guidance.

Another notable contender is likely to be Fastorslow, who narrowly missed out on victory in the Ultima Handicap Chase at the Cheltenham Festival, a race won by Corach Rambler. Fastorslow subsequently triumphed in the Punchestown Gold Cup, defying the odds and displaying potential for the Grand National at odds of 25/1.

Kitty’s Light, trained by Christian Williams, is expected to lead British hopes at the Grand National Festival. Having concluded the jumps season with victories in the Eider Chase, Scottish National, and bet365 Gold Cup, Kitty’s Light has proven stamina over long distances, making a strong debut appearance at Aintree likely.

Despite a fall in the National Hunt Challenge Cup Chase at Cheltenham, Mahler Mission showcased potential before the mishap. Although relatively inexperienced in larger fields, there is still time for Mahler Mission to develop into a genuine contender. As anticipation gradually builds, these horses stand out as promising contenders capable of making their mark in one of the most prestigious jump races in the world.