Monday 7th April, 2025
Pleased to report that Idas Boy appears fine apart from a few little cuts to a hind leg following his run in the world’s greatest steeplechase on Saturday. It was certainly a memorable day for all with Idas Boy looking magnificent in the preliminaries, winning the ‘best turned out’ award and many people commented on how wonderful he looked on the day.
The Dozen Dreamers joined myself, Brough Scott and the Armytage family on a course walk mid-morning which is always a pleasure and a privilege. Following this we had a glass of champagne in the owners and trainers car park to share our views and excitement before racing began and the ITV Champions Full Gallop film crew filmed our drinks reception.
There was much excitement in the pre-parade ring and paddock amongst the Dozen Dreamers and Harry Bannister explained his plan to sit middle to inner for the first circuit. Fortunately Idas Boy took to National fences like a duck to water and travelled strongly under a fine ride from Harry up to the Chair. Idas and Harry played it safe which led to him giving the kick board a nudge with his hind legs – however he got into rhythm pretty soon after that. Then at Bechers he went down on his nose a bit and from thereon in Harry looked after him and pulled up with several others once turning for home towards the second last.
Greeting Harry it was obvious that both he and Idas Boy had had a blast and much enjoyed the whole experience. The smiles on the Dozen Dreamers were huge as they were once again interviewed by the ITV crew and conveyed their experience to all.
A memorable day that no one involved will forget and a great team effort from all at Adlestrop, the Dozen Dreamers and especially Harry and Idas.
Congratulations to the remarkable W Mullins and his brilliant son Patrick and all at Closutton for an incredible achievement in not only winning the race but having the 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 5th.
Although the race has changed from it’s former days it is still an incredible and unique sporting spectacle that Britain and Liverpool should be proud of. Hopefully we will return to the track with Idas in the future, with the Grand Sefton, Becher and Topham all up for consideration and a possible return to the National next year.
Thank you to everyone who made it such a memorable experience and to all those who supported us on this journey and sent good luck messages. Idas Boy did us proud and we look forward to doing it again.
