In a race known for shocks, stories, and long shots stealing the show, Celebre d’Allen is shaping up to be one of the more intriguing names in the 2025 Grand National line-up.
Trained by the partnership of Philip Hobbs and Johnson White, this seasoned chaser isn’t turning heads with flashy form, but maybe that’s exactly why he shouldn’t be overlooked.
After all, the Grand National has a habit of giving the underdogs their moment in the sun.
At 13 years old, Celebre d’Allen is the oldest horse in the race, but what he lacks in youth, he more than makes up for in experience.
He’s tough, he stays, and he’s been around the block more than a few times. With a bit of luck and a clean round over Aintree’s famous fences, Hobbs and White could well pull a rabbit – or rather, a surprise place finish – out of the hat.
Celebre d’Allen – 100/1
While his odds hover between 100/1 and 125/1, there are compelling reasons to pay closer attention Celebre d’Allen.
With a career that spans both France and Britain, he was initially trained by Louisa Carberry in France.
He showed promise over hurdles and fences, winning several races at Auteuil. After moving to Philip Hobbs’ yard in Britain, he transitioned successfully to chasing, notching victories at Haydock and Warwick on heavy ground.
His form over the Grand National fences is noteworthy. He has completed all three attempts at Aintree’s unique obstacles, including a close fourth in last year’s Topham Trophy over 2m5f.
While he tired on heavy ground in the Becher Chase back in December 2023, he was still fourth and his ability to navigate these fences cleanly is evident.
His most recent victory came at Bangor-on-Dee in November 2024, where he won a three-mile handicap chase by five lengths, though the Grand National’s 4m2½f trip remains uncharted territory.
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Philip Hobbs & Johnson White
Philip Hobbs has been a stalwart of British jumps racing since 1985, amassing over 3,000 winners during his illustrious career.
In 2023, Hobbs joined forces with his long-time assistant Johnson White under a joint license.
This partnership has brought renewed energy to their Somerset stable, yielding promising results despite challenges like dry ground affecting their running plans.
White brings decades of experience and fresh ideas to the operation. Together, they have built a team capable of competing at the highest level.
Celebre d’Allen represents their ability to rejuvenate older horses and tailor training regimes for specific challenges like the Grand National.
Jockey: Michael Nolan
Michael Nolan will be making his Grand National debut aboard Celebre d’Allen.
The Irish jockey has overcome significant adversity in his career, including breaking his back and ribs in a fall in 2021.
Since becoming stable jockey for Hobbs and White in 2023, Nolan has achieved notable successes, and his determination and skill could prove crucial as he navigates Aintree’s demanding course.
Why Celebre d’Allen Deserves Attention
Celebre d’Allen might not be the youngest or flashiest runner lining up for the 2025 Grand National, but he’s got a few things going for him that make him more than just a token long shot.
For starters, he’s no stranger to Aintree’s unique fences, he’s jumped them three times before without any fuss, including a solid fourth-place finish in last year’s Topham Trophy.
That kind of familiarity counts for a lot when chaos breaks out at Becher’s or The Chair, and his win at Bangor suggests he might just have the engine to push further when it counts.
He’s comfortable on just about any ground, having picked up wins on everything from heavy to good-to-soft, so whether it rains or shines on race day, he’ll take it in stride.
And here’s a quirky bonus: Celebre d’Allen seems to enjoy running fresh—his best efforts have often come after long breaks, and he hasn’t been seen since November.
That said, he’s 13 now, which makes him the senior citizen of the bunch. No horse of that age has won the Grand National in over 100 years.
Add in some stiff competition from better-rated rivals, and it’s clear the bookmakers aren’t exactly queuing up to shorten his price.
Still, he’s experienced, well-rested, and loves a challenge. Don’t count him out just yet.
As the field lines up tomorrow at Aintree for one of horse racing’s most iconic events, Celebre d’Allen deserves recognition, not just as an outsider but as a horse whose journey reflects the enduring appeal of this extraordinary race.
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