Twig might not be the flashiest name on the Grand National list, but don’t let that fool you—this horse has a bit more bite than his name suggests.
Trained by Ben Pauling, who’s quietly built a strong reputation for getting the best out of his runners, Twig is heading to Aintree with a point to prove.
He’s not topping the betting charts, and he’s not the one grabbing headlines – but that’s exactly why he could be dangerous.
Every year, the Grand National throws up a surprise or two, and Twig might just be the low-key runner who keeps jumping and stays on when others start to tire.
Underdog? Maybe. Sleeper pick? Quite possibly. Worth watching? Absolutely.
From Humble Beginnings
There’s always a loveable underdog at the Grand National, and maybe it’s just his incredibly sweet name, but Twig deserves his day to shine.
Bred by Laurie and Alicia Strangman, his early career was anything but promising. Initially trained by Pauling, Twig struggled in bumpers and was moved to point-to-point racing under Matt and Felicity Hampton.
It was during this period that he began to flourish, winning five point-to-points and two hunter chases before returning to Pauling’s yard in September 2022.
Since rejoining Pauling, Twig has steadily built a respectable record. With 21 runs under rules, he boasts seven wins and six second-place finishes, earning over £137,000 in prize money.
His most notable victory came in the Summer Cup at Uttoxeter in 2023, where he delivered a career-best performance under Beau Morgan.
Aiming For The Grand National
Twig’s current season has been carefully managed with the Grand National in mind.
Recognising his potential for marathon distances, Pauling opted for a strategic approach, running him primarily over hurdles to protect his handicap mark.
This decision allowed Twig to qualify for Aintree without risking an increase in his official rating of 146.
That strategy may have led to a bit of a nervous wait on the list, but as of the five day declaration stage, Twig is in and will carry an enviable 10-05 on Saturday.
While his recent form may not jump off the page, it’s important to note that these performances came on unsuitable soft ground.
Twig is known to prefer better conditions and flat tracks, which align well with Aintree’s unique demands.
Strengths That Make Twig a Contender
If you’re not very into the world of horse racing, Twig might sound more like something you’d step over on a walk than a Grand National contender, but there’s actually quite a bit to like about his chances.
For starters, he’s proven he can stay the distance, having run well in races over three miles or more. He even finished a solid second in the Ultima Handicap Chase at Cheltenham in 2024, which shows he’s not afraid of a stamina test.
He’s also known to be a safe jumper, and has never fallen or unseated his jockey.
Sure, he hasn’t had loads of recent runs over fences, but what he has done so far shows he knows what he’s doing.
It also helps that he’s trained by Ben Pauling, a name that might not be shouted from the rooftops, but he’s quietly produced some very good horses, including Willoughby Court and Le Breuil.
And then there’s Beau Morgan, the jockey who knows Twig inside and out. They’ve been a team for a while now, and that kind of rider-horse connection can make a real difference when things get a bit hectic out on the course.
A Few Challenges
While there are reasons for optimism, Twig faces significant hurdles.
The 2025 Grand National has attracted a really high-caliber class of horse this year, and competing against seasoned Grade 1 performers will be a stiff challenge for Twig.
Although he has excelled over three miles, Twig has yet to prove himself over the extreme distance of the National. Then again, neither have quite a few of this year’s runners!
And while I may have a soft spot for him, there is no doubting that his performances this season have been underwhelming on paper.
That then begs the question: Can he rediscover his best form on the day when it counts?
Ben Pauling: The Man Behind the Horse
Ben Pauling’s rise through the training ranks is a testament to his skill and dedication.
After serving as assistant trainer to Nicky Henderson for six years, Pauling launched his own operation in 2013.
Over the past decade, he has built an impressive résumé that includes Cheltenham Festival winners and Aintree champions.
Pauling’s move to Naunton Downs in 2022 marked a new chapter for his yard.
The facility boasts world-class training amenities and has already yielded results, with Pauling enjoying his best-ever season shortly after relocating.
For the 2025 Grand National, he has also entered Shakem Up’Arry, who is on the verge of making the cut.
Underdog or Sleeper Pick?
Twig enters the 2025 Grand National as an outsider with odds reflecting skepticism about his chances, and you can probably back him somewhere around 66/1 (though this can change quite quickly on the day).
Yet history has shown that this race rewards resilience and preparation as much as raw talent. With favourable ground conditions and a bit of luck on race day, Twig could very well outrun expectations.
Whether he emerges as an underdog hero or simply gains valuable experience at Aintree remains to be seen.
One thing is certain: Twig’s journey from unremarkable beginnings to one of racing’s grandest stages is already an achievement worth celebrating.
BETFRED
