Monty's Pass Wins Grand National With Style; 14 of 40 Starters Finish

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Irish-bred Monty's Pass and jockey Barry Geraghty captured the Martell Cognac Grand National in commanding style at Aintree on Saturday afternoon.

The 10-year-old gelding by Montelimar, always in the leading group, scored a 12-length victory over Supreme Glory, who was a length better than Amberleigh House. All three top finishers were Irish breds.

Trained by Jimmy Mangan, Monty's Pass completed the 4 1/2 mile, 30-jump course in 9:21.7.

"He was always travelling so well, I couldn't believe it," Mangan told The Racing Post. "His jumping was unbelievable. He's never let us down – he has always been in the money. He's the star of the stable!"

Geraghty, the top rider at the Cheltenham Festival, chose the winner, who returned at 16-1, over several others in a wide-open betting race.

Favored Shotgun Willy, at 7-1, was pulled up, as were other public favorites Youlneverwalkalone, Iris Bleu and Chives. Ad Hoc unseated his rider nearing the midpoint.

All 40 who entered made the start with 14 completing the course. Nine fell. Eight unseated their riders.

"I had a lovely run, there was no real tactic to go in front," Geraghty said. "I had a dream of a run the whole way and he jumped unbelievable.

"It's a thrill to finish a National never mind to win one. It's hard to believe he could win so easily."

The triumph earned owner Mike Futter prize money of £348,000. He reportedly won more than £780,000 in bets as well.

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