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Latenightpass Aims for Topham Glory After Gallant Cheltenham Effort
Aintree stalwart gears up for fifth appearance over the National fences, with international ambitions also on the horizon
Few horses boast a better affinity with the iconic Aintree fences than the evergreen Latenightpass, and next month the 12-year-old is set to return to Merseyside once more—this time for his first crack at the Randox Topham Chase.
Trained by Tom Ellis in Warwickshire and ridden exclusively by his wife, leading amateur Gina Andrews, Latenightpass has built a formidable record around the unique Grand National course. Now, after a commendable second-place finish in the Cross Country Chase at the Cheltenham Festival, the veteran chaser is being primed for another spring campaign—one that could yet feature a rare international assignment after Aintree.
A Remarkable Aintree Record
Latenightpass has become something of a household name during the Grand National Festival, having run with great credit across four consecutive renewals of the Foxhunters’ Chase:
- 2021: Runner-up behind Billaway in his first attempt over the Grand National fences.
- 2022: Went one better, landing a memorable win in the Foxhunters’ to the delight of connections.
- 2023: Finished a solid fourth, confirming his continued relevance at the top level of hunter chases.
- 2024: Took his chance in the Grand National itself, leading the field at the second-last fence before fading late to finish unplaced—a brave effort that showcased his heart and tactical speed.
Now, in 2025, Ellis and Andrews have opted to drop Latenightpass back in trip and aim for the Topham Handicap Chase, run over a single circuit of the Grand National course (2m5f). The move is a tactical shift that may well play to the gelding’s strengths – particularly his experience and fluency over the unique spruce fences.
Cheltenham Second Confirms His Wellbeing
Earlier this month, Latenightpass warmed up for his Aintree assignment with a fine second-place finish in the Cross Country Chase at the Cheltenham Festival, finishing behind Stumptown in testing conditions.
It was another reminder of the gelding’s durability and adaptability, with trainer Tom Ellis expressing his delight at the performance:
“He ran a blinder at Cheltenham and came out of the race really well. He’s 12 now, but he’s still full of life and enthusiasm. The Topham looks like the ideal next step.”
The Cross Country form is increasingly seen as a strong pointer for the National fences, and his proven ability to stay on testing ground and maintain a strong gallop over unconventional courses could serve him well in the Topham.
Family Affair Continues
Latenightpass is truly a family horse. Bred and owned by Pippa Ellis, the trainer’s mother, and partnered exclusively by Gina Andrews, one of the most accomplished amateur jockeys in Britain, he represents the very best of grassroots National Hunt racing.
This team has shown that passion, patience and perseverance can go toe-to-toe with the sport’s biggest operations—especially over the unique fences of Aintree, where experience and rhythm can count for as much as raw ability.
International Target on the Horizon?
While all eyes are currently on Aintree on Friday 4 April, there may yet be another chapter in the Latenightpass story this season. Trainer Tom Ellis has hinted at a possible international campaign, with interest in taking the horse abroad after the Grand National Festival.
Though no location has been confirmed, potential targets could include the American Grand National or cross-country events in France, where his versatility and proven stamina would stand him in good stead.
Should such a trip materialise, it would mark a remarkable late-career expansion for the popular gelding, further cementing his place as one of the most durable and adventurous chasers in recent memory.
Final Thoughts: A Real Crowd Favourite Returns
In an era dominated by powerhouse yards and high-profile owners, Latenightpass is a throwback—a homebred, family-trained, and amateur-ridden contender who has won the hearts of racing fans through grit, consistency and flair over the National fences.
Now, as he prepares for a fifth Aintree appearance, there’s a sense that the 2025 Topham Handicap Chase could be tailor-made for him. Whether or not he can roll back the years once more, there is little doubt that his name will draw cheers as he lines up at the start of the famous Aintree course.
With the Cheltenham second confirming his form, and the Topham offering a new test, Latenightpass is once again ready to thrill the Aintree crowd—perhaps one final time. But knowing this gallant grey, there may yet be another surprise or two in store.
