So close, yet so far: The greatest horses never to win the Grand National

The recent passing of Delta Work casts a poignant shadow over National Hunt racing as we approach the 2025 Grand National. 

Gordon Elliott’s stalwart, who came agonisingly close when finishing second to I Am Maximus in the 2024 renewal, demonstrated the requisite stamina and jumping proficiency required for Aintree’s formidable challenge, yet ultimately fell short of claiming racing’s most coveted steeplechasing prize. Such is the capricious nature of this iconic test that even horses of exceptional calibre can find themselves perennially on the cusp of immortality without ever crossing the line in front.

The 2025 renewal promises another compelling chapter in the Grand National’s storied history. I Am Maximus returns with aspirations of emulating the back-to-back triumphs of Tiger Roll, while Royale Pagaille—whose Haydock specialisation suggests an aptitude for the stamina-sapping demands of Liverpool—and the talented but mercurial Envoi Allen add further intrigue to an already captivating narrative to the Grand National betting odds. 

The Grand National’s magic lies in its unpredictability, where even the best form can unravel under the race’s unique demands. Of the thousands to take on Aintree, only a few have claimed victory, while many great horses have come close but fallen short. 

In this article, we examine the remarkable equine athletes who repeatedly demonstrated an affinity for the Grand National’s gruelling demands without ever securing the ultimate prize. 

The Last Samuri

Kim Bailey’s charge emerged as the archetypal Aintree specialist, delivering a performance of remarkable tenacity when finishing second to Rule The World in 2016. 

Despite conceding 6lbs to the winner, The Last Samuri jumped with consummate precision and battled resolutely up the run-in, ultimately succumbing by just six lengths after travelling prominently throughout.

His natural aptitude for Aintree’s unique obstacles was further evidenced when finishing a creditable sixth the subsequent year under the crushing imposition of top weight. 

While many horses demonstrate inconsistency over these imposing fences, The Last Samuri maintained metronomic jumping accuracy across multiple attempts, emphasising how narrow the margin between immortality and historical footnote can be.

Suny Bay 

Charlie Brooks’ imposing grey established himself as one of the most consistent Grand National performers without claiming the ultimate prize. His consecutive second-place finishes in 1997 and 1998 showcased remarkable adaptability to Aintree’s unique demands, particularly considering he shouldered the burden of top weight (12st) in his latter attempt.

The Graham Bradley-ridden chaser’s performances were characterised by meticulous jumping and relentless galloping, particularly on his preferred soft ground. 

His valiant 1998 effort when conceding 22lbs to the winner, Earth Summit, stands as testimony to his exceptional class and determination. That he produced multiple high-level performances in handicap company underscores the enigmatic nature of Aintree success.

Clan Royal 

Jonjo O’Neill’s Clan Royal perhaps endured the most agonising near-misses of any Grand National contender. After finishing a gallant second to Amberleigh House in 2004, he appeared destined for victory the following year when leading approaching Becher’s Brook on the second circuit, only for a loose horse to dramatically carry him out when travelling with conspicuous ease.

His Aintree affinity was subsequently reinforced with a third-place finish in 2006, completing a remarkable trilogy of performances that showcased his precise jumping technique and tactical adaptability – one that deserved better within the horse racing odds. 

Few horses have demonstrated such consistent excellence over the National fences without securing the ultimate prize, his career epitomising the fine margins and fortuitous elements that often determine success in racing’s most demanding steeplechase.