I Am Maximus has taken Fairyhouse exertions in his stride
National joint-favourite ‘has his own way of getting round’.
Connections are hoping I Am Maximus’ own brand of jumping is not his Achilles heel when he goes for Randox Grand National glory at Aintree. The reigning Irish Grand National champion put himself in the picture to follow in the footsteps of Rhyme ‘N’ Reason, Bobbyjo and Numbersixvalverde by also adding the Liverpool version with a dominant display in the Bobbyjo Chase at Fairyhouse. That 14-length victory over last year’s Aintree runner-up Vanillier saw Willie Mullins’ eight-year-old made the general 10-1 joint-favourite for the world’s most famous steeplechase where he will attempt to give his handler a second victory in the race 19 years on from the success of Hedgehunter. With his stamina assured, it appears the major question I Am Maximus will have to answer when tackling the famous spruce on Merseyside surrounds his jumping.“He did well (in the Bobbyjo) and he’s got his own technique of jumping,” said owner JP McManus’ racing manager Frank Berry. “He seems to like Fairyhouse and he did it nicely. I believe he has come out of the race fine. “He has his own way of getting round so it will be interesting to see how that goes at Aintree, but he’s in good form and the plan will be to go there with him. “I don’t think stamina will be any problem to him and jumping could be his biggest problem. He will need a bit of luck but they all do round there.” McManus has won the Grand National with both Don’t Push It (2010) and Minella Times (2021) and I Am Maximus is one of five potential National runners in the famous green and gold silks alongside Closutton stablemates Capodanno and Janidil, Joseph O’Brien’s Fakir D’oudairies and Gavin Cromwell’s Limerick Lace.
Follow us on Twitter racing365dotcom and like our Facebook page.
Latest
-
Century seeking to break New ground for Balding
Trainer hunting first Breeders’ Cup winner at Del Mar.
-
Kelleway to team up with Duffield at North Yorkshire base
‘We’ve both still got fire in our bellies and it looks the perfect fit’.
-
Thomas sets sights on Betfair bid with Celtic Dino
Trainer plotting headline handicap challenge with Wincanton winner.
-
Bowen reflects on delayed Cesarewitch victory
Manxman was confirmed the Newmarket winner after disqualification due to whip breach.
-
Murphy relishing Tamfana reunion at Ascot
After missing out on Sun Chariot win, jockey is sweet on the filly’s QEII chance.
-
Gerri Colombe set for return to Down Royal next month
Gordon Elliott’s star will defend his Ladbrokes Champion Chase crown.
-
Economics and Calandagan declared for Champion Stakes clash
Arc third Los Angeles will also line up in British Champions Day feature at Ascot.
-
Swift Delivery looking all too well ahead of Ontario Derby test
Woodbine contender is part-owned by NFL star Travis Kelce.
-
Ascot to use inner track on British Champions Day
Long Distance Cup, the Fillies & Mares Stakes and the Champion Stakes switched.
-
Horse Racing
2024 Kentucky Derby – the narratives leading up to the run for the roses
The 2024 Kentucky Derby is fast approaching....