Trainer remains hopeful as JP McManus runner sits on the cusp of making the final field
Peter Fahey is daring to dream as he awaits confirmation that Canal End will sneak into the line-up for the BoyleSports Irish Grand National at Fairyhouse. With the prestigious Easter Monday showpiece fast approaching, Fahey admits victory in Ireland’s richest jumps race would be “absolutely massive” — and potentially a turning point for his yard.
Just Outside the Cut — But Not Out of the Picture
Canal End is currently number 63 in the list of entries for the €500,000 steeplechase, and only a maximum of 30 runners can take their place at the start. That means 33 horses above him would need to come out for the six-year-old to get a run — a scenario that may appear unlikely at first glance, but Fahey remains optimistic.
“It might look like a big ask, but things can change quickly,” said the trainer. “A win in the Irish National would be a real game-changer for us — a dream come true.”
Market Confidence Grows as Support Builds
Punters clearly share Fahey’s faith. Canal End has been backed from 25-1 into 14-1 with race sponsors BoyleSports since the entries were first revealed just two weeks ago, suggesting confidence in his chances — if he gets in.
The six-year-old, owned by legendary racing figure JP McManus, has shown plenty of promise and would carry a featherweight if given the green light to line up.
Top-Weighted Entries Could Open the Door
There’s growing hope that a number of withdrawals could pave the way for Canal End’s inclusion. Seven of the top ten in the weights lined up at Aintree for the Grand National, including the winner Nick Rockett and several among the leading contenders have already been scratched from the Fairyhouse feature.
With withdrawals expected right up to declaration time, the final make-up of the field could yet change dramatically.
Dreaming of a Breakthrough Moment
For Fahey, the opportunity to land a major staying prize like the Irish Grand National represents far more than just a good payday — it would be a landmark moment in his training career.
“We’ve been lucky enough to have some great days, but this is one of the biggest races on the calendar,” he added. “To win it with a horse like Canal End, in JP’s colours, would mean the world to everyone in the yard.”
