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Horse Racing
Enjoy this first before thinking about Red Rum, say Maximus camp
Connections of I Am Maximus are determined to enjoy celebrating this year’s Randox Grand National success before even thinking about going for a historic third victory.
The Wille Mullins-trained 10-year-old became only the second horse after Red Rum to regain the National crown after galloping to victory in the 2024 renewal.
He was second in between his victories and now the son of Authorized – also the sire of dual winner Tiger Roll – has the chance to pull level with Aintree legend Red Rum if he can record a third triumph in the world’s greatest steeplechase.
The heavily-backed 9-2 favourite was travelling best in the hands of Paul Townend as they headed for the elbow and he stormed clear on the run-in, passing Jordans who had made a bold bid for home two out.
Frank Berry, racing manager to winning owner JP McManus, said: “It was a brilliant performance and it was a great ride from Paul. Willie had him in great form and it was an unbelievable day.
“At Becher’s the second time I thought it was on. I always thought he’d finish well. I wasn’t too sure when the horse (Jordans) kicked for home and went a bit clear. I didn’t know what to expect, but I knew that he’d stay and it was a fantastic performance.
“Let’s celebrate this one first before thinking about next year. We’ll see what happens after (celebrating). It’s a long way away, he’s a year older but I’m sure all being well you’d love to see him back there again and have a go at it.”
McManus had a team of six in the race, with Iroko staying on well to follow up last year’s fourth-place finish in second this time. Cheltenham victor Johnnywho claimed fourth to give McManus three of the first four home.
Perceval Legallois, Jagwar and Oscars Brother all unseated their rider.
Berry added: “Iroko ran a blinder. He got trapped a bit to hold his place after the second-last, but he stayed on really well from the last and finished out great.
“Johnnywho also ran a blinder. He jumped great. We’re very proud of them all.
“We had six nice horses in the race. Three didn’t get round. You wouldn’t be surprised that any of them ran well and won, but the winner was the class one of them and it worked out that way.
“I believe all of the horses came out of the race well and all the fallers and that’s the most important bit.”
