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Winless trainer aiming for Grand National Glory with £52k Horse
In the illustrious world of British horse racing, few events capture the public’s imagination quite like the Grand National.For trainers, both seasoned and novice, the allure of Aintree’s demanding course represents the pinnacle of National Hunt racing. One such trainer, Michael Keady, stands on the precipice of this grand stage, eager to etch his name into the annals of racing history. Having recently acquired his training licence, Keady’s journey is both inspiring and emblematic of the sport’s enduring spirit.
A New Chapter Begins
Just four months ago, in December 2024, Michael Keady embarked on his solo training career. Prior to this, he had co-trained alongside Mike Murphy, gaining invaluable experience and insights into the intricacies of horse training. Their partnership yielded notable successes, particularly on the all-weather circuits, laying a solid foundation for Keady’s independent venture.
Setting up base in Newmarket, the heartland of British horse racing, Keady established his operations at Revida Place.This state-of-the-art facility boasts modern amenities tailored for optimal horse training and care. Keady’s philosophy centres on delivering outstanding results both on and off the track, a commitment reflected in his meticulous approach to training.
Early Successes on the All-Weather Scene
Transitioning to solo training, Keady quickly made his mark on the all-weather racing scene. Within a short span, he celebrated seven victories, a testament to his adeptness and the seamless continuation of his prior successes. These wins not only bolstered his reputation but also showcased his ability to maintain consistency across different training environments.
A Bold Acquisition: Horantzau D’Airy
In a strategic move to elevate his stable’s profile, Keady, in collaboration with business partner Jim Gill, acquired Horantzau D’Airy for £52,000 from the esteemed trainer Willie Mullins. This eight-year-old gelding had previously demonstrated potential, notably finishing as the runner-up in the Munster National. The acquisition was a calculated decision, aiming to position Keady’s stable for higher-profile races.
Horantzau D’Airy’s Racing Profile
Horantzau D’Airy, foaled on 20th March 2017, boasts a respectable racing record. Over 20 starts, he has secured 3 wins, 8 second-place finishes, and 2 third-place finishes, reflecting a win rate of 15%. His performances in significant handicaps, such as the Kerry National and the Munster National, underscore his competitiveness in large-field events.
Recent Form and Grand National Prospects
As of 20th March 2025, Horantzau D’Airy holds a rating of 147 and is assigned a weight of 10st 6lbs for the Grand National, with current odds standing at 66/1. His recent outings include a 9th place finish in the Leopardstown Handicap Chase (Grade 3) on 2nd February 2025, where he competed over 2 miles 5 furlongs 107 yards on yielding ground. Prior to that, he also finished 9th in the Paddy Power Chase at Leopardstown on 27th December 2024.
While these recent results may not appear immediately promising, it’s essential to consider the context of each race. Both events were highly competitive, attracting strong fields. Additionally, the distances, though substantial, were shorter than the Grand National’s gruelling 4 miles 2½ furlongs. Horantzau D’Airy’s prior performances in longer races, such as his runner-up finish in the Munster National over 3 miles, indicate a potential aptitude for extended distances.
The Grand National Challenge
The Grand National is renowned for its unique challenges, including 30 demanding fences and a marathon distance that tests a horse’s stamina, jumping ability, and resilience. For Horantzau D’Airy, his consistent jumping technique and previous experience in large-field handicaps are advantageous. However, the Aintree fences present a distinct test, and his ability to adapt will be crucial.
Keady’s Ambitions and the Road Ahead
For Michael Keady, entering a contender in the Grand National so early in his solo career is a remarkable achievement. It reflects not only his ambition but also his confidence in his training methods and the potential of Horantzau D’Airy. The journey to Aintree involves meticulous planning, from selecting appropriate preparatory races to ensuring the horse’s peak fitness and well-being.
Keady’s partnership with Jim Gill has been instrumental in this endeavor. Gill’s investment and shared vision have provided the necessary resources to compete at this elite level. Their collaborative approach exemplifies the synergy required between trainer and owner to achieve success in high-stakes racing.
Historical Context: Newmarket and the Grand National
It’s noteworthy that 91 years have passed since a Newmarket-trained horse clinched the Grand National. The last to do so was the legendary Golden Miller in 1934, who was stabled at nearby Exning. Keady’s ambition to break this long-standing hiatus adds a historical dimension to his quest, potentially revitalizing Newmarket’s legacy in National Hunt racing.
Horantzau D’Airy’s progression towards qualification for the 2025 Grand National will be of particular interest to racing enthusiasts. With a current rating of 147, he is on the fringe of making the final field, given that the National typically attracts horses rated in the mid-140s and above. However, with the field size reduced to 34 runners in recent years, securing a place at Aintree will depend on how many higher-rated horses declare for the race.
If he does make the cut, the 66/1 odds reflect both his potential and the uncertainty surrounding his suitability for the unique demands of Aintree’s marathon test. Despite his inconsistent recent form, he possesses the jumping ability, stamina, and experience in large handicaps that could make him a live outsider in the race.
Challenges Ahead for Keady and Horantzau D’Airy
While qualifying for the Grand National is an achievement in itself, winning it is an entirely different challenge. There are several obstacles to overcome if Horantzau D’Airy is to mount a serious bid for victory:
1. Handling the Aintree Fences
The unique nature of Aintree’s fences has often caught out even the most experienced jumpers. While the modifications in recent years have made them more forgiving, they still require a horse with confidence, athleticism, and sound jumping technique. Horantzau D’Airy has been consistent over regulation fences, but his first attempt at Aintree’s obstacles will be a major test.
2. Proven Stamina for a Four-Mile Race
Horantzau D’Airy has competed in several extended-distance handicaps, but the Grand National’s 4m2½f triprepresents an entirely new challenge. His runner-up finish in the Munster National (3m) suggests he stays well, but there is a big difference between a three-mile handicap and the ultimate test of endurance at Aintree.
Horses who have previously competed over four miles or more—such as One For Arthur (2017) and Corach Rambler (2023)—often hold an advantage in the Grand National.
3. Inexperience at the Top Level
While Horantzau D’Airy has run in competitive handicaps, he has not yet won a Graded race, nor has he contested many races at the very highest level. The Grand National is often won by horses with experience in big-field staying chases, such as Tiger Roll, who had won a Cheltenham Festival Cross Country race before his Aintree triumphs.
That being said, outsiders with limited Graded experience have won before—most notably Auroras Encore (2013)and Rule The World (2016), both of whom were considered long shots.
What Would a Win Mean for Michael Keady?
If Horantzau D’Airy were to win the Grand National, it would be one of the greatest stories in recent racing history. For a trainer with fewer than six months of experience to claim victory in one of the most challenging and prestigious races in the world would be an astonishing achievement.
A victory would instantly elevate Keady’s reputation, attracting more owners and better horses to his yard. It would also serve as a huge boost for Newmarket’s National Hunt racing scene, given that the town is primarily known for Flat racing.
The Grand National has produced fairytale stories before, such as:
- Mon Mome (2009) – A 100/1 shock winner for trainer Venetia Williams.
- Foinavon (1967) – Won at 100/1 after chaos at the 23rd fence.
- Rule The World (2016) – Won despite never having won a chase before.
Could Horantzau D’Airy and Michael Keady be the next underdog story at Aintree?
Final Verdict: Can Horantzau D’Airy Win the 2025 Grand National?
While 66/1 odds suggest he is an outsider, Horantzau D’Airy possesses several key attributes that could help him outperform expectations:
✅ Solid jumping ability – Has handled big fields and demanding fences well in the past.
✅ Proven stamina – Performed strongly over 3-mile distances and could improve further.
✅ Well-handicapped – His rating of 147 and weight of 10st 6lbs put him in a competitive range.
However, there are also major question marks:
❌ Unproven over extreme distances – The 4m2½f trip is a big unknown.
❌ No experience over Aintree fences – The unique nature of the Grand National course is a significant challenge.
❌ Lack of Graded wins – Many National winners have previous top-level form.
If Keady’s charge can handle Aintree’s fences and stay the trip, he has a small but realistic chance of making history. At the very least, he is a horse to watch for each-way backers who love a big-priced underdog.
For now, all eyes will be on whether Horantzau D’Airy secures his spot in the final field—and if he does, Keady will be hoping to pull off one of the biggest shocks in Grand National history.
