Humble Beginnings:: Twig started slowly, finding success in point-to-points before returning to Ben Pauling's yard and building a respectable record (7 wins, 6 seconds from 21 runs under rules, earning over £137,000).
Strategic Qualification:: Twig's campaign focused on hurdles to protect his handicap mark, securing a spot in the Grand National with a manageable weight of 10st 5lbs.
Proven Stamina & Jumping:: He finished second in the 2024 Ultima Handicap Chase at Cheltenham, demonstrating staying power. Crucially, Twig has never fallen or unseated his jockey in his career.
Ground Preference:: Recent underwhelming form came on unsuitable soft ground; Twig prefers better conditions, potentially aligning well with Aintree if the ground suits.
Team Connection:: Experienced trainer Ben Pauling and jockey Beau Morgan, who knows Twig well, form a strong partnership.
Market Position:: Currently an outsider with odds around 50/1 to 66/1.
Why this matters:: Twig fits the profile of a potential Grand National surprise – a reliable jumper who stays well and carries a low weight. If conditions favour him, he could outperform his long odds.
Twig's journey to the Grand National is far from conventional. Initially struggling under rules, he honed his craft in the point-to-point sphere, winning five times before rejoining Ben Pauling in 2022. Since then, he's proven his ability, highlighted by a career-best win in the 2023 Summer Cup at Uttoxeter. His second-place finish in the prestigious Ultima Handicap Chase at the 2024 Cheltenham Festival further underlined his stamina over extended trips.
Trainer Ben Pauling, a former assistant to Nicky Henderson with Cheltenham Festival and Aintree wins on his CV, has carefully managed Twig's path to Aintree. By running him mainly over hurdles this season, Pauling protected Twig's chase handicap mark (146), ensuring qualification without accumulating extra weight. While recent runs on soft ground look disappointing on paper, they were likely part of this strategy and not representative of his ability on preferred better ground.
Twig's key strengths are his proven stamina over three miles and his clean jumping record – essential attributes for the unique test of the Grand National fences. The established partnership with jockey Beau Morgan is another plus. However, the 2025 Grand National field is considered high-caliber, presenting a significant class challenge. Twig also needs to prove he can handle the extreme four-and-a-quarter-mile distance, further than he's run before. Ultimately, his success hinges on rediscovering his best form on suitable ground.
What are Twig's odds for the Grand National?
Twig is currently priced as an outsider, generally available at odds ranging from 50/1 to 66/1, although these can change.
Has Twig run in the Grand National before?
No, the 2025 Grand National will be Twig's first attempt at the race.
Who trains Twig?
Twig is trained by Ben Pauling, based at Naunton Downs.
What weight will Twig carry?
Twig is set to carry 10st 5lbs in the Grand National.
Twig is a potential longshot bet who has demonstrated stamina and safe jumping.
His chances likely improve significantly if the ground at Aintree is good or better.
While recent form is a concern, it may be excused due to unsuitable ground conditions and strategic race planning.
Consider him for each-way bets, acknowledging the high level of competition and the step up in distance.
Do you think Twig has what it takes to cause an upset in the Grand National? Let us know your thoughts!
Share this article with others who need to stay ahead of this trend!
The prestigious Randox Grand National festival returns to Aintree racecourse from April 3rd to April 5th, 2025. This iconic three-day event,...
The Randox Grand National, the world's most famous steeplechase, is set for Saturday, 5 April 2025, at 16:00 BST at Aintree Racecourse. A fi...
The Grand National at Aintree is more than just a horse race; it's a global spectacle and a British institution, capturing widespread attent...
The 2025 Grand National festival at Aintree Racecourse in Liverpool is underway, marking one of the UK's most significant horse racing event...
⚠ Disclaimer: Yanuki provides article summaries and links for reference only. Yanuki does not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy of third-party sources. Please review original sources and verify information independently. Managed by the Yanuki Data Engine. Full Disclaimer