The British Horseracing Authority has stated that despite potentially breaking the whip guidelines at Newcastle on Tuesday, Derek Fox will still participate in the Randox Grand National riding Corach Rambler. Fox and trainer Lucinda Russell achieved victory in the Aintree race last season with Corach Rambler, and they also had success with One For Arthur in 2017.
Corach Rambler, who performed admirably by finishing third in the Cheltenham Gold Cup two weeks ago, is currently the clear favourite to defend the championship on 13th April in Merseyside. Despite rumours suggesting otherwise, it appears that Fox will indeed be the jockey for the horse.
Reports were indicating that Fox, a jockey born in Sligo, may face trouble with the Whip Review Committee due to his winning ride on Clovis Boy, trained by Russell, at Newcastle on Tuesday. However, while the BHA confirmed that the ride was under review and a penalty may be imposed, any potential suspension will not take effect until the week after the National.
The BHA typically does not disclose which riders are being referred, but in this instance, they provided a statement to clarify the situation due to media speculation and the potential impact on public betting for the race.
A spokesperson for the BHA explained that the WRC (Whip Review Committee) had reviewed Fox's ride at Newcastle and had additional questions for him. They have sent a letter to Fox requesting his observations, following the protocols and procedures of WRC meetings. Consequently, Fox's case will be considered by the WRC on 2nd April, and any penalty resulting from the ride will not be enforced until 16th April.
Corach Rambler is currently the favourite at odds of 4-1 for the Grand National according to William Hill. The horse has received significant support from bettors, leading to a substantial shift in the betting market. Coral has also reduced the odds to 4-1 from 5-1 due to strong backing. Punters have shown confidence in Corach Rambler, with expectations that the Lucinda Russell-trained horse will join an exclusive group of dual Aintree winners next month.