I Am Maximus became the first horse since Red Rum to regain the Grand National Steeplechase Handicap (NH-3) as the gambled-on 9-2 favorite provided trainer Willie Mullins with victory in the race for a third year in a row April 11 at Aintree Racecourse.
Ridden by Paul Townend, who scored on I Am Maximus in 2024 and was second on him again last year, I Am Maximus ran down Jordans, who had kicked clear going to the second-last fence, after the elbow to take the prize for owner J.P. McManus.
Townend said: "He's tough, isn't he? The cheekpieces definitely helped. I got into a nice rhythm and the cheekpieces helped me in the middle of the race.
"I saw the one gone in front and I wasn't going to be the one chasing him. I was able to get a lead to the elbow. He's a really, really good horse. He'd gallop to the end of the world for you.
"Grand Nationals and Gold Cups are the pinnacle of our sport—and we got them both!"
Last year's winning rider, Patrick Mullins, exited at the first fence this year after being unseated from Grangeclare West, while the popular Panic Attack was out of the race at the third fence.
However, I Am Maximus was tucked down on the inside by Townend and crept away while chaos went on around him.
Not that it was all smooth sailing. At points in time, I Am Maximus found some interference but, moving into the home straight, he was poised ominously behind the leading pack.
At this point, Jordans kicked clear. Yet, the run to the line was a long one and I Am Maximus came closer and closer, taking over in the closing stages with an unstoppable run to land the prize. Iroko finished second with Jordans third and Johnnywho fourth.
Mullins, who joined Ginger McCain as the most successful Grand National trainer with four wins, said: "He's a superb horse and got a fantastic ride. It was a good call from J.P. I wanted to go down the Gold Cup route, but he wanted to come to Aintree with him. Paul just executed it so well, didn't he?
"It is hard to win (under top weight) but the modern-day National is changing and we have to look at it differently. It's the race you grow up wanting to win and be a part of."
McManus, who was also landing his fourth Grand National after the wins of Don't Push It, Minella Times, and I Am Maximus in 2024, said: "We have a bit to do to catch up with Red Rum, but we'll definitely try. Red Rum was the figurehead of the National and it's nice to be mentioned in the same breath as him. Full marks to the team, they have all played a part. It's so exciting. I'd like to compliment Paul on the ride."
Asked if he had backed the winner, McManus added: "I had a little on."
