The prospect of Tony McCoy retiring in a blaze of glory with victory in the Grand National is at the forefront of bookmakers’ minds after the release of weights for the world’s greatest steeplechase.
Shutthefrontdoor is best priced at 12-1 as he is believed to be the 19-time champion’s most likely ride on April 11.
Bookmakers have long memories and McCoy’s triumph on Don’t Push It for his boss JP McManus and trainer Jonjo O’Neill in 2010 cost them a substantial sum.
It was McCoy’s first and only success at his 15th attempt and this year will be his final crack at the National before he retires from the saddle.
Shutthefrontdoor, representing the same combination, won last year’s Irish Grand National and was successful in his only run of the season at Carlisle in November.
Given 11st 2lb (70.5kg) for Aintree, Shutthefrontdoor is 12-1 with Aintree’s official betting partner Betfred and Ladbrokes, although he is just one of six possible McManus runners.
“Whatever he (McCoy) rides is sure to go off favourite and the plunge has already begun on Shutthefrontdoor, who has halved in price since the entries were revealed,” Betfred spokesman Andrew Griffiths said.
Betfair offer the same price for Shutthefrontdoor and expect him to be popular with punters.
“The industry is already running for cover from a fairytale ending to AP McCoy’s career on Shutthefrontdoor, but we are happy to offer a top price of 12-1,” a spokesman said.
William Hill are taking no chances, quoting Shutthefrontdoor at 10-1.
BetVictor also go 10-1 Shutthefrontdoor, but believe the horse could be as short as half those odds on the day.
