If you’re the kind of Grand National punter who loves a big-priced runner with a bit of backstory, Royale Pagaille might be your horse.
Trained by Venetia Williams, who famously won the race with 100/1 shot Mon Mome back in 2009, she knows a thing or two about defying the odds.
Now she’s back with another outsider, and while Royale Pagaille isn’t getting much love from the bookies, he brings serious class, staying power, and a bit of mud-loving grit to the table.
At 11 years old, he’s no youngster, but he’s proven he can mix it with the best, and if the ground turns softer, don’t be surprised if this veteran comes rolling past a few tired legs when it really counts.
A Proven Performer
It’s been a minute since an 11-year-old won the Grand National. In fact, three of them did it on the bounce with Neptune Collonges in 2012, Auroras Encore in 2013 and Pineau De Re in 2014.
Since then there’s been a bit of a drought but, one thing all three also had in common was their relative long odds.
They were 33/1, 66/1 and 25/1 respectively and that’s because people under estimated the slightly older horses in the National.
So, if you don’t mind taking a bit of a punt, then Royale Pagaille could be worth a second glance.
He has been a standout in National Hunt racing for years. Owned by Rich Ricci, one of the sport’s most prominent figures, he has amassed over £550,000 in career earnings across 30 starts.
With his standout performances coming in the prestigious Betfair Chase at Haydock, which he won twice (2023 and 2024) under testing conditions, he is a classy chaser.
Mixed Bag This Season
No horse can constantly be on its A-game (unless you’re Altior or Honeysuckle) and this season has been less than stellar for Royale Pagaille.
With unplaced efforts in at Haydock and Cheltenham, his most recent outing saw him finish sixth in the Cheltenham Gold Cup behind Inothewayurthinkin.
While these results may suggest a decline, it’s worth noting that Royale Pagaille does better on soft ground—conditions so keep him in mind if there’s a downpour!
Despite these challenges, his class cannot be overlooked. Royale Pagaille has consistently performed at the highest level and possesses the stamina required for the Grand National trip.
A Trainer Who Knows How to Win
Venetia Williams is no stranger to Grand National success. In 2009, she trained Mon Mome to a shock 100/1 victory in this very race.
What makes Williams unique is her dual role as both a former jockey and a trainer.
In 1988, she became one of the few women to ride in the Grand National when partnering Marcolo.
Although her race ended at Becher’s Brook with a fall that left her unconscious, her pioneering spirit continues to inspire.
Williams’ training career has been marked by major successes beyond Mon Mome. From Teeton Mill’s victories in the King George VI Chase and Hennessy Gold Cup to Royale Pagaille’s Betfair Chase triumphs, she has demonstrated an ability to prepare horses for big occasions.
Her Herefordshire stables are renowned for producing tough stayers capable of excelling under demanding conditions.
Charlie Deutsch: The Man in the Saddle
Royale Pagaille will once again be partnered by Charlie Deutsch, who has built a strong rapport with the horse over several seasons.
Deutsch is an accomplished jockey with multiple Grade 1 wins to his name, including victories aboard L’Homme Presse and Royale Pagaille himself.
His calm demeanour and tactical acumen make him well-suited for navigating the unique challenges of Aintree’s National course.
His partnership with Venetia Williams has been particularly fruitful, and he will be eager to add a Grand National victory to his résumé.
Why Royale Pagaille Could Surprise
Royale Pagaille might be flying under the radar at 100/1, but there’s more to this seasoned chaser than meets the eye.
He’s already shown he can handle a slog, with strong staying performances in races like the Betfair Chase.
Add to that a hefty dose of experience, and you’ve got a horse who knows his way around a tough course.
The Aintree fences are no joke, but with Venetia Williams calling the shots and Charlie Deutsch back in the saddle, this partnership brings a steady hand and a familiar touch.
And let’s be honest – who doesn’t love a proper underdog story? Williams pulled off a shocker in 2009. Could Royale Pagaille be the sequel?
Limitations
Royale Pagaille has plenty going for him, but there are a few quirks worth keeping in mind before you rush off to back him.
He’s a proper mud-lover, so if the Aintree ground firms up under sunny skies, he might find the going a bit too quick for his liking.
At 11 years old, he’s one of the more experienced heads in the field, but with that experience comes a question or two about whether his best days are behind him.
Oh, and he’s likely to be lumping around one of the heaviest weights in the race, which is no small task over those famous fences.
Potential Might Not Be Enough
Royale Pagaille translates into English as ‘Royal Chaos’ which is what connections are hoping to avoid on Saturday.
They know their outsider has plenty to prove, but also plenty to offer. His career achievements speak volumes about his quality and resilience and if the ground was softer, or it hadn’t stopped raining over Aintree, his odds would be a lot shorter.
As it is, he’s a long shot – classy, but a long shot. He could be worth an each-way flutter, or simply one to cheer on as he tackles one of racing’s greatest spectacles.
In a race where anything can happen, Royale Pagaille might yet have one more surprise up his sleeve.
BETFRED
