Maximus joyous
Triumph from beyond grave for ex- owner who named Grand National winner I Am Maximus after his wife Maxine
I AM Maximus lived up to its billing by imperiously romping home in the Grand National yesterday – but with many jubilant racegoers unaware of the poignant story behind his classical name.
Owner JP McManus, the Irish billionaire, celebrated victory at Aintree surrounded by his grandchildren after his horse, ridden by Paul Townend, streaked clear in a thrilling finish.
The magnate bought the Willie Mullins-trained horse only last year from Salford businessman Mike Grech, who had named the gelding after his wife Maxine, dreaming of it one day winning jump racing’s biggest prize.
But Mr Grech’s death at the age of 63 in September meant that he never realised his ambition to cheer I Am Maximus to victory in the National.
This year’s race, which saw the 7-1 joint favourite triumph by
‘So many horses had a chance late in the race’
seven-and-a-half lengths from runner-up Delta Work, with Minella Indo third and Galvin fourth, was hailed as one of the best ever by former winning jockeys.
Sir AP McCoy said: ‘It was the most wonderful finish.
‘I’ve never seen so many horses in with a chance of winning the Grand National so late in the race. What an incredible race – just a brilliant spectacle.’
Ruby Walsh, who won the Grand National twice, added: ‘If that doesn’t convince people that this is a wonderful sport then I don’t know what will.’
The winner of last year’s race, Corach Rambler, was fancied to repeat his 2023 heroics but came a cropper early, unseating his jockey Derek Fox at the first fence to save bookmakers millions.
Paul Binfield, spokesman for Paddy Power, said: ‘The winner was spotted by many punters, but despite that the bookies have had a result.’
Famous faces seen at the course included former Liverpool footballers Ian Rush and Sir Kenny Dalglish, ex-Hollyoaks actress Sarah Jayne Dunn and Olympians Sam Quek and Kelly Sotherton.
Sir Kenny said: ‘It’s always a fantastic day at Aintree. There’s a great atmosphere in and around the place – it’s fantastic.’
With new safety measures implemented, this year’s race saw the highest number of horses cross the finish line – 21 out of 32 – since 1992, with none falling. The changes – including a limit on the number of runners – were put in place by organisers after last year’s race was delayed when protesters made their way on to the track.
This year’s event passed off without incident after a massive security operation. Merseyside Police said six people were arrested at the course after almost 60,000 racegoers turned out.