Ireland has a firm grip on National Hunt racing, with the British often left to pick up the scraps at the major meetings in the last decade or so. This dominance extends to the Grand National, where the Irish have triumphed six times in the last eight renewals. For enthusiasts of online horse racing betting, Irish-trained horses have become a popular choice, reflecting their consistent success.
Let’s explore Ireland’s recent dominance in the Grand National, beginning with Rule The World’s triumph in 2016 and culminating with I Am Maximus’ memorable win for Willie Mullins this year.
2016: Rule The World
In 2016, Rule The World delivered a spectacular victory, marking a first win in the Grand National for trainer Michael ‘Mouse’ Morris, jockey Danny Mullins, and owners Gigginstown House Stud.
Despite being a 33/1 outsider and notably having never won over fences before, Rule The World showcased immense heart and stamina, capturing the imaginations of racing fans and solidifying Ireland’s burgeoning influence in the race.
2018-2019: Tiger Roll
Tiger Roll etched his name into Aintree history by becoming the first horse to win back-to-back renewals since the legendary Red Rum in the 1970s. His triumphs in 2018 and 2019, under the guidance of trainer Gordon Elliott and jockey Davy Russell, were monumental.
These victories marked the second and third Grand National wins for Elliott and Gigginstown House Stud, further cementing their status as leading figures in the sport.
2021: Minella Times
The 2020 renewal of the Grand National was cancelled due to the pandemic, but the 2021 edition, held behind closed doors, did not disappoint.
It became one of the most historic races on record when Rachael Blackmore, aboard Minella Times, became the first female jockey to win the Grand National.
Trained by Henry de Bromhead, this victory also marked a hat-trick of wins for owner JP McManus. Blackmore’s groundbreaking win was celebrated by the racing world, highlighting not just Irish dominance but also the evolving inclusivity in the sport.
2022: Noble Yeats
In 2022, Emmet Mullins joined his uncle Willie on the Grand National roll of honour with a shock victory by Noble Yeats. Sent off at 50/1, Noble Yeats defied the odds and stormed to victory under amateur jockey Sam Waley-Cohen, who retired immediately after the race.
This unexpected triumph underscored the unpredictable nature of the Grand National and added another chapter to Ireland’s storied success in the race.
2024: I Am Maximus
After a brief interlude in 2023, when Scottish trainer Lucinda Russell claimed her second Grand National win with Corach Rambler, Ireland returned to winning ways in 2024. Willie Mullins, having been starved of Grand National glory for 19 years, finally ended his drought with I Am Maximus.
This victory was particularly significant as it marked the first Grand National win for the decorated jockey Paul Townend, while owner McManus enjoyed his third triumph in the race. I Am Maximus’ win was a testament to Mullins’ enduring excellence and strategic acumen in National Hunt racing.
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