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Dreams, Hopes and Farewells: The Stories Building Ahead of the 2025 Grand National
As the countdown to the 2025 Randox Grand National at Aintree enters its final stretch, anticipation continues to build with a mix of optimism, expectation and fond farewells shaping the narrative.
With confirmed runners beginning to emerge and trainers finalising plans, the scene is set for another unforgettable renewal of the world’s most famous steeplechase. Among the stories capturing attention are the hopes of Nick Scholfield aboard Monbeg Genius, the confidence behind Iroko, Gordon Elliott’s powerful team, and the retirement of a National favourite.
Scholfield and Monbeg Genius: Quiet Confidence for a Big Run
For jockey Nick Scholfield, the Grand National remains a race that allows everyone involved to dare to dream. This year, Scholfield is quietly optimistic about his chances aboard Monbeg Genius, trained by the father-and-son duo Jonjo and AJ O’Neill.
The nine-year-old chaser returned to form in style this season, reminding everyone of his ability when finishing third in the prestigious Coral Gold Cup at Newbury. That performance marked a turning point, and he followed it up with an authoritative five-length success at Uttoxeter earlier this month – his final prep run before Aintree.
Currently available at 25/1, Monbeg Genius is one of the more interesting contenders in this year’s field – a horse with strong staying form, a proven engine, and a jockey brimming with belief.
Jonjo Jr and Iroko: A Live Contender with Stamina to Prove
While the O’Neill team will be hopeful of a strong run from Monbeg Genius, their leading National contender could be another star from their yard – Iroko, trained by Oliver Greenall and Josh Guerriero, with Jonjo O’Neill Jr in the saddle.
Iroko, who has long been held in high regard, has been well-supported in recent weeks and now sits as the second favourite at 8/1 in the ante-post market. Despite some questions surrounding his stamina for the extended four miles and two furlongs of the Grand National, confidence in the camp is high.
With a strong turn of foot and solid jumping technique, Iroko appears to be the type of horse who could relish the National’s unique test if he handles the stamina challenge.
Gordon Elliott Gearing Up for Grand National Redemption
After a frustrating Cheltenham Festival, where the likes of Teahupoo and Brighterdaysahead came up short of expectations, Gordon Elliott is now focused on Aintree and a strong spring campaign.
Teahupoo, who finished second to Bob Olinger in the Stayers’ Hurdle at Cheltenham, is expected to reappear in the Liverpool Hurdle over three miles – a race that could bring redemption for the talented six-year-old.
Meanwhile, Elliott has suggested that Brighterdaysahead, who finished a disappointing fourth in the Mares’ Novices’ Hurdle, could line up at Aintree for a mouth-watering Aintree Hurdle clash with Constitution Hill. Such a showdown would be a highlight of the entire meeting and a thrilling test for the mare before she embarks on a chasing career next season.
In the Grand National itself, Elliott is expected to field a strong team, with several well-handicapped and proven stayers set to take their chance, as he seeks to land a fourth victory in the race following previous triumphs with Silver Birch (2007) and Tiger Roll (2018 & 2019).
Farewell to Galvin: A National Star Retires
On a more poignant note, Elliott announced on Monday that Galvin, a stalwart of his yard, has been retired following a below-par effort in the Cross Country Chase at Cheltenham.
A 13-time winner, Galvin’s career was highlighted by his memorable win in the Grade 1 Savills Chase in 2021 and a gallant fourth-placed finish in the 2024 Grand National. There had been hope that he would return to Aintree for one final bid, but connections have now decided to draw stumps.
Elliott confirmed the news via social media, posting:
“Thanks for the memories, Galvin.”
The eleven-year-old also finished runner-up in the American Grand National and added a Grade 3 win at Punchestown in 2022 to a distinguished record. A model of consistency and class, Galvin retires as one of the modern era’s most admired staying chasers.
Final Thoughts: The Stories That Make the National Special
The Grand National is more than just a race. It is a tapestry of dreams, comebacks, heartbreak and celebration. As we look ahead to the 2025 edition, the narratives are already in place: Scholfield’s measured optimism, the promise of Iroko, Elliott’s bid for redemption, and Galvin’s farewell all combine to remind us why this race holds such a cherished place in the sporting calendar.
In an era of polished professionalism and deep competition, the Grand National continues to deliver emotion, unpredictability, and moments that stay with us forever.
