With all eyes on the big names in this year’s Grand National, it’s easy to miss a potential gem like the grey runner, Kandoo Kid.
Trained by Paul Nicholls – one of the most successful names in jump racing, and chasing his second win in this famous race – Kandoo Kid could be quietly slipping under the radar.
Over the last couple of weeks, his odds have been slowly but steadily dropping, and with stamina, a smart campaign, and Nicholls’ skill behind him, this could be the horse to spring a surprise at Aintree.
A Stellar Season
Kandoo Kid’s 2024-25 season has been nothing short of remarkable. The highlight came on November 30, 2024, when he claimed victory in the prestigious Coral Gold Cup at Newbury.
This is a huge race and one that is often seen as a stepping stone to Grand National success, and Kandoo Kid’s performance was impressive.
Despite being the only runner in the field making his seasonal reappearance, he shrugged off a 232-day absence to forge clear and win by just shy of two lengths.
What makes this victory even more noteworthy is that Kandoo Kid became only the second horse in the past decade to win the Coral Gold Cup on his seasonal return.
This feat speaks volumes about his natural ability and the expert conditioning provided by his trainer.
Paul Nicholls: A Master Trainer
Speaking of trainers, Paul Nicholls is no stranger to success. With over 3,500 winners to his name, including four Cheltenham Gold Cups, Nicholls is one of the most successful trainers in British National Hunt history.
However, Grand National glory has largely eluded him. His sole victory in the Aintree spectacle came in 2012 with Neptune Collonges, coincidentally another grey horse.
To be fair, he also hasn’t had a runner in the race since 2021, so it’s hard to win a raffle when you haven’t bought a ticket!
That said, Nicholls’ expertise in preparing horses for the big day is evident in his approach with Kandoo Kid.
After the Coral Gold Cup win, Nicholls revealed, “We’ve aimed at this race all season, and I wasn’t going to be tempted to run him,” before adding, “I had a lovely bet at 25/1 about a month ago and I really, really fancied him.”
This level of confidence from such an experienced trainer is telling.
Why Kandoo Kid Could Be the One
There are several factors that make Kandoo Kid a serious contender for the 2025 Grand National:
Proven Stamina: His victory in the Coral Gold Cup over 3m2f demonstrates his ability to stay the trip.
Aintree Form: His third-place finish in the Topham Chase shows he can handle the unique Aintree fences.
Trainer’s Expertise: Paul Nicholls knows what it takes to win a Grand National and has been targeting this race for Kandoo Kid.
Age and Experience: At nine years old, Kandoo Kid is in his prime for a National attempt.
Versatile Ground Performer: He has shown form on various ground conditions, an important factor given the unpredictable April weather.
It also helps that Kandoo Kid has already demonstrated his aptitude for the unique Aintree fences, finishing a close third in the Topham Chase in April 2024!
The Final Furlong
As we approach the 2025 Grand National, Kandoo Kid stands out as a horse with all the right credentials.
His impressive performances, coupled with the masterful training of Paul Nicholls, make him a name to watch closely.
Nicholls himself summed it up best when he said, “I think he’d be a great type for Aintree.
He’s been round there once before and was brilliant. He’s got the National written all over him, and that’s what we’ll train him for.”
With his grey coat reminiscent of Neptune Collonges, Kandoo Kid could very well be the horse to bring Paul Nicholls his long-awaited second Grand National victory.
As the countdown to the Grand National 2025 begins, this talented gelding is certainly one to keep on your radar.
BETFRED
