As National Hunt season begins its wind-down post Cheltenham, could it be third time lucky for Vanillier in the 2025 Randox Grand National?

In the second of three in-focus looks at this year’s edition of the world’s most famous steeplechase, BestofBets has plucked a favourite, a mid-range and longer punt from the start list and here look at one of Gavin Cromwell’s big hopes.

On the back of a hugely successful Cheltenham for the Irish trainer, in his third National outing brings his biggest list of entries to date, including one of the big favourites, winner of the Glenfarclas Cross Country at Cheltenham, Stumptown.

But could stablemate, Vanillier, finally rise to the occasion at Aintree?

Plucky runner-up

Just over two years ago on 15 April 2023, the 175th running of the Grand National took place, shrouded in controversy following animal welfare protests, with the race delayed by a full 14 minutes as protestors stormed the race course.

Through the mist and mire of uncertainty rose Corach Rambler, a 9yo who took full advantage of a 10-pound weight advantage – allocated before his second victory in the Ultima a month before at Cheltenham.

As trainer Lucinda Russell picked up her second National winner, bringing up the rear only two lengths behind to finish runner-up – and surging – Vanillier stormed home at a lofty 20/1, pocketing Gavin Cromwell over £200,000.

This weekend, 24 months on, Cromwell gives his now 10yo a third crack a glory after plans for a return attempt in 2024 went decidedly awry.

Struggle

Last year, Vanillier was the antepost favourite at 7/1 and after his sterling but largely forlorn charge the year before, his weight allowance had drawn the attentions of punters in the market.

However, by post-time his price had doubled to 14s. In hindsight, last year’s softer ground did him no favours.

Seeing I Am Maximus take the spoils for the second race in a row after the two met at Fairyhouse, Vanillier was very much a midfield runner and weakened late on to finish outside the top 10 in 14th spot.

In theory, the going this year may not prove much more to his liking, but following a better showing at Cheltenham and on good to soft ground, Vanillier could yet throw the challenge down to Stumptown.

Wrong Turn

Vanillier is one of many contenders this year who are seeing a sizeable nibble in the market and for good reason.

So would ground set to be a good deal firmer, but still officially likely good, serve Vanillier better? The jury is out on that particular deliberation.

Without doubt, Cromwell’s runner has had his best results on softer or heavier ground – including February’s cross county win at Punchestown and 2021 victory in the Albert Bartlett.

It was in the former race that caused many a punter to fancy his chances in the Glenfarclas at Cheltenham last month, but said hopes took a turn for the worse – quite literally.

Leading the field out, Vanillier bolted over fence 3 and together with Escaria Ten, narrowly avoided taking the wrong path over the 3m5.5f route.

However, just to underline his credentials, not only did he recover to midfield within a mile, but put himself in the frame to win the race.

As it turned out, the momentum lost scuppered his winning chances, but as he watched 5/2f Stumptown go on to victory, Vanillier again chased his stablemate and Latenightpass into a hugely creditable third place.

If we consider his two late efforts in both the 2023 National and last month in Gloucestershire, Vanillier has a proven engine.

It sounds perhaps obvious to again state in the race, but if Cromwell’s other big runner remains in the picture toward the closing stages, there will be real chances.

But in the case of this grey gelding in particular, if he is not only in the mix but has left enough to tear home once more, Vanillier and likely mount Sean Flanagan could be on to a very, very good thing this weekend.

Vanillier’s 2025 Grand National prospects and form

How Vanillier’s form stacks up against rivals

Vanillier’s recent race results and running style

Vanillier has shown a clear pattern of strong late running in big-field contests, making ground over fences when stamina and a sustained gallop are required.

Across his recent campaigns he has placed in demanding staying chases and cross-country events, which underline his resilience and ability to sustain a finishing effort in testing conditions.

Vanillier’s stamina and finishing speed compared

His late acceleration is a standout trait and a critical asset over Aintree’s extended trip where many horses fade in the closing stages.

That engine of his means Vanillier can pick off tired rivals, but he must avoid traffic and errors earlier in the race to capitalise on that turn of foot.

Trainer Gavin Cromwell: entries, targets and tactics

Cromwell’s approach in these big handicaps has become more targeted and pragmatic, with entries shaped around ground forecasts and recovery between runs.

He tends to place his horses where fitness and course suitability give the best return, and Vanillier benefits from a patient, measured campaign tailored to maximise his stamina peak.

Weight, penalties and how they impact Vanillier

In handicaps of this scale, weight carries tangible influence: Vanillier has performed well off moderate burdens but heavy weights can blunt his finishing kick late on.

Assessing the final weights and any penalties close to declarations will be crucial to judging whether he holds realistic chances at the business end.

Course and ground analysis for Aintree Grand National

Aintree’s unique fences and undulating track demand a balance of bravery, stamina and balance; many successful runners have a history of coping with deep or testing ground.

Vanillier’s form on soft or heavy going reads well and his cross-country experience suggests he handles unusual obstacles better than some conventional chasers.

Market moves: interpreting odds and betting value

Odds movement often reflects late confidence from connections and market-makers; a shortening price can indicate a positive morning at the track or improved reports from the stable.

For research-led punters, cross-referencing market trends with trainer engagement and jockey bookings helps separate genuine support from speculative market noise.

Jockey form and likely riding tactics for Sean Flanagan

Sean Flanagan’s rapport with Vanillier is an asset — he times late runs well and has shown an ability to navigate crowded, high-pressure finishes in big staying races.

Expect him to conserve energy early, position to avoid trouble, and angle for clear running turning for home to deploy Vanillier’s strong finishing speed.

A responsible approach to backing big-field steeplechasers

When considering any ante-post or match bet on Vanillier, it is important to set a staking plan and treat wagering as entertainment, not a way to make money.

Betting should only be undertaken by those aged 18+, and customers should use tools such as deposit limits, time-outs and self-exclusion where appropriate to stay in control.

Practical preparation: data points to check before betting

Key items include the official going, declared weights, jockey bookings, recent wind and veterinary notes, and any late course gallops or stable updates.

Combining these data points with a check of the market can help build a rounded picture of Vanillier’s realistic chances without relying on hype or emotion.

How race tactics and field size affect finishing chances

Big fields increase the likelihood of pace collapses and traffic; Vanillier’s late-running style can flourish if the early tempo favours a quick back-end finish.

Conversely, if the race becomes tactical with many fallers or scrambles, a horse that loses momentum or takes a wrong path may struggle to regain a position.

Comparing Vanillier with key rivals in this renewal

Stumptown’s Cheltenham win gives him a class edge on form, but Vanillier’s proven stamina and cross-country background make him a particularly tough match if the ground is testing.

Assessing each rival’s late form, weight burden and Aintree-specific experience will define whether Vanillier is best considered a value alternative or a speculative each-way option.

Final checklist for readers considering Vanillier

Before committing any stake, confirm the official going, final weights, recent ветеринар notes and the declared rider, and compare odds across bookmakers for best value.

Remember that nothing is guaranteed in big-field jump races; back only with funds you can afford to lose and consider smaller stakes on wide-margin bets to manage risk.

You can explore current bookmaker offers through our comparison tools if you choose to bet responsibly and are 18+.

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Frequently asked questions about Vanillier and racing

Is Vanillier a realistic contender for Aintree?

Vanillier is a credible contender based on stamina and late pace, particularly if the ground is soft and he avoids early trouble.

How much does ground affect Vanillier’s chances?

Ground is significant for Vanillier; he has his best form on softer going which helps him stay on strongly in the closing stages.

Does Sean Flanagan’s booking materially improve Vanillier’s prospects?

Sean Flanagan’s familiarity with the horse and judged late-riding style can improve race execution, making it likelier Vanillier hits his true pace pattern.

Should I use ante-post markets for this type of horse?

Ante-post markets can offer value but carry added risk from non-runners and changing conditions, so stake conservatively and only if you accept the extra uncertainty.

What role do weights and penalties play in final chances?

Weights can be decisive in a gruelling handicap; a small rise or penalty may blunt a late-plunging horse like Vanillier when the field is deep.

Where can I check bookmaker odds and special offers safely?

Compare odds and verified welcome offers on licensed UK bookmakers via BestOfBets’ comparison pages, and always gamble responsibly if you are 18+.