THE Martell Grand National could be heading for its smallest field in at least 16 years, judged on yesterday's list of acceptors.
Another 22 horses were taken out of the £250,000 race at the second forfeit stage, leaving only 48 standing their ground for Aintree.
Last year, when 35 runners eventually went to post, 57 had been left in at the same stage, suggesting that the final line-up on March 30th could rival the 30-runner field in 1980 - the smallest since 1970.
Well-publicised injuries have, forced the withdrawal of many of those taken out, such as Masters Oats, Earth Summit and Smith's Band.
"I am not surprised by many of the withdrawals as they were horses we knew about - for example Earth Summit and Master Oats have both got a leg," said Aintree clerk of the course Charles Barnett.
"We are still hoping for a big field on the day. A lot depends on what happens at Cheltenham, though the two-week gap between Cheltenham and Aintree this year might be an important factor."
Martell spokesman Nigel Payne stressed: "It's how many horses run on the day that counts. Our objective is to get 40 runners, but I am not surprised by what has happened.
"Although we got 82 original entries - compared to 81 last year - there were quite a few who were not qualified."
Many trainers have voiced a reluctance to run a horse in both the Cheltenham Gold Cup and Grand National this year as there are only 16 days between the two races.
So the Aintree participation of Gold Cup runners Dublin Flyer, Monsieur Le Cure, Young Hustler and Rough Quest could be in doubt.
Jodami, ruled out of the Gold Cup by illness, is the new top-weight in the Grand National on 11st 4lb - set to rise to 11st 7lb at the overnight stage.
Other notable non-acceptors at the second forfeit stage include French challenger As de Carres.
The next acceptance for the race is the five-day declaration stage a week on Monday.
Shane Fetherstonhaugh, son of former Irish Press journalist, the late Brian Fetherstonhaugh, will have his first racecourse ride when he partners Scharnhorst for trainer Simon Dow in the opening race at Lingfield today. The 19-year-old has been with Dow for several seasons and accompanied stable star Young Ern to Hong Kong.
