Bargain Buy Sensation:: Hewick was purchased for a mere £800 – less than the price of some cows – and has since amassed over £750,000 in prize money.
Proven Class:: His victories include prestigious races like the King George VI Chase (2023), the Galway Plate (2022), and the American Grand National (2022).
National Focus:: Trainer Hanlon skipped the Cheltenham Gold Cup, despite Hewick likely having a chance for a place, specifically to target the Grand National. This has been the plan for over a year.
Jockey Controversy:: Regular jockey Jordan Gainford (who rode Hewick in 7 of his last 8 runs) was replaced by Gavin Sheehan for the National ride. Sheehan partnered Hewick for his King George win but has only ridden him once. Gainford expressed disbelief at the decision.
Betting Surge:: Hewick's odds have dramatically shortened, tumbling from 66/1 down to as low as 9/1, causing concern among bookmakers due to the 'staggering' support.
Why This Matters:: Hewick represents a fairytale story in racing – a cheap purchase rising to the top. His focused preparation and proven stamina make him a serious contender, while the jockey change adds an element of drama. The significant betting support indicates strong public belief in his chances.
Hewick's journey from an £800 purchase to a potential Grand National favourite is the stuff of racing legends. His trainer, John 'Shark' Hanlon, has cultivated a public image for the horse, famously taking him into a local County Carlow pub for a pint of Guinness after his American Grand National triumph in 2022. This 'people's horse' narrative resonates strongly with fans and punters.
Preparation for the 2025 Grand National has been meticulous. Bypassing the demanding Cheltenham Gold Cup demonstrates the team's singular focus on Aintree. Hanlon believes the horse is peaking at the right time, citing a confidence-boosting win over hurdles at Thurles and a positive schooling session over National-style fences.
The modern Grand National, with modified fences considered more forgiving than in the past, potentially suits a horse like Hewick. He possesses the necessary class, demonstrated by his King George victory, and seems to favour the anticipated good ground conditions. As Johnny Ward noted in The Standard, Hewick 'ticks all the boxes'.
The decision to replace Jordan Gainford with Gavin Sheehan has certainly raised eyebrows. While Sheehan delivered Hewick's career-best win in the King George, Gainford has been the horse's regular partner. Gainford, understandably 'fuming', will now ride outsider Conflated. Sheehan acknowledges Gainford's connection but aims to seize the opportunity, highlighting that luck is crucial in the National.
The significant drop in Hewick's odds (from 66/1 to 9/1) reflects both his credentials and his popularity. Bookmakers are reportedly nervous about the volume of bets placed on him. He faces stiff competition, notably from last year's winner I Am Maximus (carrying 8lbs more), Vanillier (runner-up in 2023), and other strong Irish contenders like Perceval Legallois and Stumptown.
Why is Hewick so popular?
Hewick's popularity stems from his incredible 'rags-to-riches' story (bought for £800, won £750k+), his major race wins, and his trainer's knack for publicity, including taking him to the pub for a Guinness.
Who is riding Hewick in the Grand National?
Gavin Sheehan is booked to ride Hewick, replacing the horse's more regular jockey, Jordan Gainford.
What makes Hewick a good Grand National prospect?
He has proven class (King George winner), has been specifically prepared for this race bypassing Cheltenham, reportedly enjoys the National fences, and prefers the expected good ground conditions.
Hewick is a genuine contender with a compelling backstory.
His preparation has been specifically geared towards Aintree glory.
The jockey change adds intrigue but doesn't necessarily detract from his chances.
The significant betting support suggests strong confidence from punters.
Hewick's story is captivating, but can he overcome the unique challenge of the Grand National and the late jockey change?
*Do you think Hewick will win the Grand National? Let us know your thoughts!*
Source 1: Grand National 2025 tips: Hewick ticks all the boxes... (The Standard) target="_blank"
Source 2: Based on reporting from The Sun & Daily Mail Online.
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