It was yet another victory for Willie Mullins and Paul Townend, as I Am Maximus conquered Aintree and won the Grand National on Saturday.
It was a brilliant race that saw nearly all the horses remaining in contention heading into the last of 30 fences. While it might have been tight for much of the race, in the end, I am Maximus was levels above everyone else as she delivered an utterly dominant finish.
I am Maximus, who is owned by JP McManus and trained by Willie Mullins, was the co-favourite going into the race, but had a rocky start and looked to be struggling throughout the race favouring the inside route when others seemed to be opting for the outside instead. However, as the race reached its conclusion and Rachael Blackmore looked set for a win, the field opened up for Townend who took full advantage and saw I Am Maximus down the home straight.
I Am Maximus wins the Randox Grand National! 🏆#ITVRacing | #GrandNational | @PTownend | @WillieMullinsNH pic.twitter.com/y1DmJbJEzX
— ITV Racing (@itvracing) April 13, 2024
JP McManus gives rare insight into racing dynasty
I Am Maximus' win marked a third Grand National win for JP McManus, a second for Willie Mullins and a first for Jockey Paul Townend. While the win continued Willie Mullins' dominance of the racing season, all eyes were on Limerick businessman McManus who gave a rare insight into his private life celebrating the win.
McManus who also sponsors the Limerick senior hurlers, was keen to make sure his whole family got in on the celebrations, with all of his grandchildren squeezing in to accept the trophy before giving an interview to ITV, in what was a great moment from the Irish sports mogul.
This is lovely.
J.P. McManus and his grandchildren join Willie Mullins and Paul Townend with the ITV Racing team to react to I Am Maxmus' incredible win in an incredible Grand National.#GrandNational pic.twitter.com/55tlVG9BWF— Virgin Media Sport (@VMSportIE) April 13, 2024
Speaking about the win today, JP was over the moon, singing the praises of Willie Mullins and Aintree itself.
I love everything about the race, I love Liverpool, the excitement of coming here, the build-up to the National.
It is just a very, very special place amongst very special people . . . .
It is such a special race. Willie (Mullins) planned a campaign for this horse from a long time back and thankfully it worked out.
McManus' first Grand National win came all the way back in 2010 when Don't Push It won, and while he waited over a decade for his second win, he's had two in short succession with I Am Maximus following Manilla Times' 2021 victory at Aintree.
SEE ALSO: ITV Viewers Fascinated By Dramatic Stewards' Enquiry Footage After Paul Townend Aintree Win
