Grand National gamble: Rachael Blackmore mount Ain't That A Shame now favourite

Rachael Blackmore's Grand National mount Ain't That A Shame has been backed into 8/1 favourite for the world's most famous steeplechase.

Blackmore created history in 2021 when becoming the first female rider to win the Grand National aboard the Henry de Bromhead-trained Minella Times. De Bromhead and Blackmore team up again with Ain't That A Shame who was a 20/1 shot after the declarations were made on Thursday but has been heavily supported since riding arrangements were confirmed.

Sky Bet's Michael Shinners said: "The price on Ain’t That A Shame collapsed late on Friday morning. The Rachael Blackmore-ridden horse is now our clear 8/1 favourite for Saturday's race and looks very likely to go off favourite for the great race."

Ain't That A Shame has usurped Delta Work (9/1) and Corach Rambler (10/1) at the head of the market, with last year's winner Noble Yeats also prominent in the betting at 12/1.

On Ain't That A Shame's claims, Blackmore said in her Betfair blog: “Ain’t That A Shame has a lovely profile for the race.

“He was unlucky to be just beaten in the Munster National at Limerick in October, and it wasn’t my best day in the saddle when I finished fourth on him in the Paddy Power Chase at Leopardstown over Christmas.

“But he won nicely at Gowran the last day, and it was no harm that the runner-up came out and won at Fairyhouse there at the weekend.

“You don’t really know how a horse will handle the track or the fences until you get out there, but he had a pop over the National fences at the Curragh, and he went well. I’d be confident that he will take to the fences fine.

“He travels well through his races, which is a big help. You’re just hoping that you can get into a nice position and find a nice racing rhythm over the first few fences. I am hopeful that he can.

“After that, you never know, it’s the Grand National, but he has his chance and I’m very much looking forward to it.”