Nina Carberry is at the fore of Grand National news currently after it was revealed that the female amatuer jockey has been banned from taking part in the Crabbie’s Grand National this year. The 31 year old National Hunt rider is renowned throughout the sporting world after securing a win at the Cheltenham Festival in 2005, with her success continuing thereafter by winning the Irish Grand National in 2011, and her Crabbie’s Fox Hunters’ Chase 2015 victory. Most recently she has secured yet another accomplishment by taking first place in the St James’s Place Foxhunt Chase at Cheltenham with 11 year old On the Fringe. Having beaten notable jockeys such as Olympic personality Victoria Pendelton, it appeared that the Irish jockey firmly had the Grand National in her sights once again. Carberry has taken part at the Aintree event a total of five times, four of which she finished, however, she has never managed to win the primary steeplechase race. If she was to be successful she would be the first female jockey to do so, and as she is one of the most experienced amongst her fellow female riders, the chance for victory doesn’t seem unreasonable. That being said, this year’s Grand National is not to be, after reports that Carberry has received a seven day ban that will finish on Grand National Day. The irony of her ban is that her participation with First Lieutenant was only possible due to another jockey being suspended for a whip related incident. This time however, the whipping offence falls upon herself. There is a lot that could still change between now and when Grand Opening Day comes round on April 7th, which is why it is wise for fans and punters alike to keep abreast of all the latest news and visit Coral’s Grand National coverage page. By utilising information given by such well established brands, spectators are sure to make informed decisions based on the best tips available. What is more, it can also alert you to last minute changes, such as those being experienced by Sam Waley-Cohen. It appears that Nina Carberry is not alone in the last minute bans, as the 33 year old Cheltenham Gold Cup winner has also received a suspension that risks his Grand National involvement. The ban was set in place after the stewards decision that the rider prematurely slowed down, therefore causing him to end fifth instead of third. When asked about what happened, Waley-Cohen stated that he had the welfare of his family bred horse in mind, and will therefore appeal against the ruling.
LATEST HORSE RACING NEWS, PREVIEWS AND TIPS
