The Grand National, held annually at Aintree, is renowned as the ultimate test of stamina, skill, and courage for both horse and rider.
Last year, the storied race delivered another unforgettable chapter as I Am Maximus, the 7/1 joint-favourite, stormed to victory under jockey Paul Townend. For trainer Willie Mullins, it marked a second triumph in this iconic race nearly two decades after his first with Hedgehunter in 2005.
The win also secured a third Grand National title for legendary owner JP McManus, cementing a remarkable legacy.
Not only did I Am Maximus ensure the showpiece would live up to expectations from previous Grand National races, but he now arrives at the 2025 event as one of the favourites. Indeed, the nine-year-old reigning champion has the chance to etch his name into Aintree history by becoming the first horse in over 50 years to win back-to-back Grand Nationals.
In this article, we delve into just how I Am Maximus won the 2024 Grand National and his chances of winning successive titles come April.
The road to Aintree
I Am Maximus arrived at Aintree with strong credentials but also questions about his consistency. After a promising career start under former trainer Nicky Henderson, he moved to Mullins’ yard, where he began to flourish.
His victory in last year’s Irish Grand National hinted at his potential for marathon distances, while an impressive performance in the Bobbyjo Chase earlier this season solidified his status as one to watch.
However, doubts lingered over his jumping fluency, which had let him down in previous races. Despite this, punters still backed him heavily as one of the joint-favourites.
A race to remember
The National began with early drama as defending champion Corach Rambler unseated jockey Derek Fox at the very first fence, dashing hopes of a repeat victory.
Amidst the chaos, Townend kept I Am Maximus well-positioned on the inner rail, navigating through a crowded field of 32 starters. By the second circuit, several horses remained in contention, including Delta Work and Minella Indo, both seasoned campaigners with strong finishing ability.
As they approached the final fence, Rachael Blackmore aboard Minella Indo appeared poised to claim her second Grand National victory. However, Townend timed his move perfectly.
Urging I Am Maximus forward at just the right moment, he surged past Henry de Bromhead’s star as well as Delta Work at the elbow, and stormed clear down the home straight to win by an impressive seven and a half lengths.
It was a masterful ride that showcased the jockey’s brilliance and the horse’s staying power.
History beckons
Winning the Grand National is no small feat. The race is a gruelling four-mile marathon over 30 fences that has humbled even the greatest of champions.
With his emphatic victory, I Am Maximus joins an elite group of horses that have conquered Aintree’s formidable course. His triumph not only gave Townend his first Grand National win after 13 attempts but also positioned Mullins and McManus among the most successful figures in modern jump racing.
Comparisons with legends like Red Rum and Tiger Roll may still be premature, but I Am Maximus’ performance has undoubtedly etched his name into the annals of Grand National history.
The victory means all eyes will be on Mullins once more as attention turns to this year’s race. The Irishman was overjoyed after the victory last April, well aware of how important victory was.
“Aintree is the first race you see, it’s the first race everyone in racing wants to see. Fantastic stuff, you just couldn’t make it up,” said Mullins. Last year’s race had been delayed by 14 minutes after animal rights activists entered the track, but there was no disruption this time.
I Am Maximus now stands poised to become one of jump racing’s modern icons. Whether he can emulate legends like Red Rum or Tiger Roll remains to be seen, but for now, his name shines brightly in Aintree’s rich history—a testament to teamwork, preparation, and sheer determination on one unforgettable day in April 2024.#
(Stock ID: 2149104813)
