Ruby Walsh riding Willie Mullins’ Boston Bob in the National. It had favourite stamped all over it.
It is not to be, however.
Walsh will, instead, Sir Des Champs at Aintree.
Paul Townend will ride Boston Bob in a move that will definitely shake up the betting, at the very least.
The odds on Walsh/Boston Bob claiming the National dipped to 20/1, a fortnight ago, as punters backed the 11-year-old’s to repeat its recent success from the Bobbyjo Chase at Fairyhouse.
The equine-human partnership teamed up to win the 2014 Gold Cup.
Walsh is a two-time winner of the showpiece race, having claimed glory in 2000 [Papillon] and 2005 [Hedgehunter].
Townend has yet to ride a National winner so getting a chance on Boston Bob will be much welcomed.
In other rider declarations, Bryan Cooper will go off on First Lieutenant while Barry Geraghty has selected Shutthefrontdoor.
