I Am Maximus Secures Grand National Victory for Mullins
Paul Townend, the jockey, claimed his second triumph in the Grand National as I Am Maximus, the 2024 winner and last year’s runner-up, triumphed at Aintree. This achievement marks the first time since Red Rum’s 1977 victory that a horse has reclaimed the race, with trainer Willie Mullins securing his third consecutive win in the iconic event.
Historical Milestones
The 9-2 favorite entered the race with a strong reputation, ultimately outperforming Iroko, Jordans, and Johnnywho. Mullins, who now has four Grand National victories, became the first trainer to win the race in three successive years since Vincent O’Brien’s streak from 1953 to 1955. His success also bolstered JP McManus’s position as the leading owner in the race’s history, with four wins to his name.
McManus’s stable dominated the top four finishers, except for Jordans. I Am Maximus’s historic win, with a weight of 11st 12lbs, made him the first top-weight contender to succeed since Red Rum’s 12 stone triumph in 1974.
Race Drama and Key Moments
“He’s tough. He’s a really, really good horse, and although Grangeclare West and Nick Rockett looked good in training, this lad wasn’t telling me not to ride him,” said Paul Townend. “He is so good and has such an engine. He will gallop to the end of the world for you. I am really privileged. What a horse,” he added. “Grand Nationals and Gold Cups are the pinnacle of the sport and I have them both,” Townend continued.
The race began with dramatic moments, including Patrick Mullins being thrown from Nick Rockett at the second fence and Panic Attack, the second favorite, falling at the third. Ben Jones mounted Jordans, a 28-1 outsider, around the final bend, but Townend maintained a steady lead on I Am Maximus before breaking clear for the win.
Other Race Highlights
Despite the Grand National’s spotlight, other races at Aintree saw trainer Dan Skelton land four victories, including wins for Mirabad, Bossman Jack, Mr Hope Street, and Forthfactor. In the second race, Get On George was pulled up and quickly dismounted by Jack Tudor, leading to its humane euthanisation—a second fatality of the day after Gold Dancer.
Quai de Bourbon and Mr Vango were taken to the ambulance following falls, while jockey Robbie Dunne required medical evaluation after a tumble on Stellar Story. The event concluded with I Am Maximus’s double victory, solidifying Mullins’ legacy and McManus’s dominance in the race’s history.
