Grand National 2024: Vanillier on course to try and go one better at Aintree

Trainer Gavin Cromwell is confident that last year's runner-up Vanillier can go close again in the Randox Grand National at Aintree Racecourse a week on Saturday.

The nine-year-old grey, under Sean Flanagen, flew fast and late – just too late – to be a two-and-a-quarter length second to Corach Rambler in the Aintree marathon 12 months ago. While there was lots of pride in his performance, Irish trainer Cromwell immediately targeted a return to Merseyside to try and go one better. Vanillier's campaign has been geared around a second crack at the world's greatest steeplechase. And following another second – as he did before Aintree last year – behind fellow Grand National hopeful I Am Maximus in the Bobbyjo Chase at Fairyhouse at the end of February, he ready to try and turn the tables on Corach Rambler in the Aintree showpiece this time.

Vanillier is a best-priced is a 9-1 chance with official Grand National betting partner William Hill and a best-priced 10-1 with Betfred and Skybet to go one better this time. Corach Rambler is a best-priced 5-1 favourite with Betfred.

Latest entries and weights for the 2024 Grand National

Navan-based handler Cromwell had mixed feelings over Vanillier's effort at Aintree last April and is hoping with one or two slight tweaks, he can do even better next week.

Cromwell, speaking exclusively to the Liverpool ECHO courtesy of William Hill at Aintree Racecourse, said: "It is a little bit bitter-sweet. We were delighted for him to run as well as he did but when you are a fast finisher – I know Corach Rambler looked to be idling a bit in front – but when you are coming home strong like that it is a little bit frustrating. I think the only way we would have got there was if Corach Rambler had