Second Grand National horse pulls out within hours as race thrown into chaos | Racing | Sport

A second horse has been withdrawn from the Grand National after Nick Rockett was pulled out earlier on Thursday. The defending champion was declared a non-runner on account of a self-certificate for coughing. Now, it has been confirmed that another horse will be missing the iconic race as well.

Pied Piper was drafted in as Nick Rockett’s replacement but trainer Gordon Elliott revealed on Thursday afternoon that he hadn’t made the trip to Aintree. Speaking to ITV Racing, Elliott explained that mobility issues had prevented Pied Piper from being able to take part.

“He’s going to miss the race,” announced Elliott. “We left the yard yesterday morning and rolled out and everything was sound, 100 per cent.

“He was a bit tight yesterday evening and he’s just not right this morning, he’s lame behind, so obviously horses come first and foremost.

“He’s at home. Very unfortunate for the owners, staff and everyone involved. He will be there for another day.”