For Dylan Cunha's stable, anticipation is building as Celebre d'Allen, their distinguished 13-year-old gelding, eyes a coveted spot in the 2025 Grand National. Currently, Celebre d'Allen is positioned at 37th on the list, which places him just outside the automatic entry zone, a zone limited to the first 34 contenders guaranteed a place in the iconic Aintree race.
The challenge is real for the Dylan Cunha yard, especially when considering Celebre d'Allen's age. At 13, he stands as the oldest horse vying for a slot, presenting a unique dilemma. His chance to compete ultimately hinges on withdrawals or re-evaluations of higher-ranked competitors. This situation leaves the connections in a wait-and-see mode, fervently hoping that shifts in the lineup open the entry gates for their veteran runner.
The Cunha stable, which is also nurturing potential stars like Group 1 hopeful Prague, is counting on Celebre d'Allen's formidable experience to make an impression. Despite his age, Celebre d'Allen remains a horse with notable form and history, attributes that his handlers believe could give him an edge if he makes it to the field.
With the final declarations scheduled for April, all eyes are on how the roster changes in the coming months. It's not just a matter of whittling down the list but banking on Celebre d'Allen's proven track record and grit. For many horse racing enthusiasts, this narrative adds a layer of intrigue and excitement to an event already rich with tradition and anticipation.