13th-Apr-2024

Message of 24th February 2024

I want to back I Am Maximus for the Grand National before he runs in the Bobbyjo Chase today. The Bobbyjo is a good pointer to the National, Hedgehunter won both races in 2005, Black Apalachi won the Bobbyjo in 2009 and was running a big race in the National when he unseated at Becher’s second time, then he finished second in the National the following year. Any Second Now won the Bobbyjo in 2022 and finished second in the Grand National.

I see I Am Maximus as a good Grand National type. He has a lot of the attributes that you look for. He is an Irish National winner, which is a big asset to take to Aintree, and he had the class and the pace to win the Grade 1 Drinmore Chase in December over two and a half miles.

Also, he is eight years old, the ideal age for the Grand National these days.

He goes well at Fairyhouse, but he tends to jump to his left, so Aintree should suit him. Also, he is conceding 12lb to Vanillier today, and he will be conceding just 8lb to him at Aintree so, if he can even get close to Vanillier today, his Grand National odds could contract.

I AM MAXIMUS WON (ADV 25/1, SP 7/1)