This Saturday's Coral Welsh Grand National at Chepstow promises a thrilling spectacle, with the enchantingly old-school chaser Mr Vango poised to capture the hearts of racing purists. The nine-year-old, trained by Sara Bradstock, enters the prestigious handicap chase as the second-favourite, offering a potential fairytale result for a yard steeped in jumping history.
A Proper, Old-Fashioned Steeplechaser
When enthusiasts describe a "proper, old-fashioned steeplechaser," they envision a strapping, powerful horse capable of battling through the heaviest winter ground. Legends like Pendil, Desert Orchid, and Denman fit that mould. In the current era, Mr Vango embodies that same spirit. His massive frame and relentless front-running style make him a formidable contender for the Chepstow showpiece, a race where stamina and courage are paramount.
Owned and bred in a defiantly traditional manner, Mr Vango represents a contrast to modern trends. In an age where young chasing prospects command six-figure sums, his journey has been one of patience. He was sold as a foal for just €7,000 in November 2016 and did not race until he was a six-year-old, winning a point-to-point in February 2022. He subsequently joined the Bradstock stable for £30,000, a relative pittance in today's market.
Roots in a Historic Stable
The Old Manor Stables in Oxfordshire, now under Sara Bradstock's sole licence, has a legendary heritage. It was the base for five-time Cheltenham Gold Cup winner Golden Miller in the 1930s and later for three Grand National winners trained by the late Tim Forster. More recently, it was home to the brilliant half-brothers Carruthers and the 2015 Gold Cup hero Coneygree, trained by Sara alongside her late husband, Mark.
Mr Vango is the latest star from this production line. After a winning debut over hurdles, his potential over fences was undeniable. His second chase start resulted in a 60-length demolition of the field in the Devon National at Exeter in February 2024. This season, under Sara Bradstock's guidance, he has been flawless, winning all three starts: the London National at Sandown, the Peter Marsh Chase at Haydock, and the Midlands Grand National at Uttoxeter in March.
The Welsh National Challenge and Beyond
Despite a battling second place over the Grand National fences at Aintree earlier this month, which raised his official rating to 155, Mr Vango will compete at Chepstow off his old mark of 152. Recent winners like Elegant Escape (2018) and Native River (2016) have defied similar burdens, proving it is possible. However, a host of talented rivals carrying less weight will be determined to stop his relentless gallop.
A victory for the popular gelding would be a highlight of the festive period, even overshadowing the star-studded King George VI Chase at Kempton on Boxing Day. For purists, the sight of the magnificent Mr Vango setting the pace over three and three-quarter miles of demanding Welsh turf is the quintessential Christmas racing experience.
With the Grand National at Aintree in April now a clear long-term target, a bold showing at Chepstow would solidify his credentials. The racing world will be watching to see if this throwback to a classic era of steeplechasing can add another famous victory to the storied history of Old Manor Stables.
