Joseph O’Brien’s horse, Jordans, has recently been under scrutiny as he prepares for the Grand National. Despite a challenging winter, his previous performances suggest he may be a strong contender.
Jordans: A Rising Star in Horse Racing
Arriving from France, Jordans has a solid foundation, having won multiple races across the continent. Since joining O’Brien’s training operation in September 2024, his career quickly ascended. He claimed victory in a Grade 3 novice chase at Punchestown in October 2024 and finished second in a Grade 1 race at Limerick by December.
The Aintree Performance That Changed Everything
In April 2025, Jordans raced in the Mildmay Novices’ Chase at Aintree, a prestigious Grade 1 event over three miles and one furlong. Starting at odds of 11/1, he finished second to Caldwell Potter, a highly-rated competitor. Jockey JJ Slevin highlighted Jordans’ impressive run, suggesting he had exceeded expectations and thrived on the Aintree track.
A Challenging Season
Following his standout performance at Aintree, Jordans faced a lengthy absence from racing, returning after 239 days. His subsequent performances included several lackluster efforts in late 2025 and early 2026. Heavy ground conditions seemed to hinder his performance, indicating he prefers drier track surfaces.
Upcoming Grand National Aspirations
O’Brien has expressed cautious optimism regarding Jordans’ potential for the Grand National. He noted the advantage of a suitable weight and a more favorable racing profile for younger horses. Despite not using the Bobbyjo Chase as a final prep run, Jordans has proved he can handle Aintree, crucial for a successful run.
Winning Profile and Statistics
- Age: 7 years old
- Weight: 10st 8lb
- Career Wins: 1 out of 10 starts over fences
- Best RPR: Competitive among recent National winners
While historical trends favor older horses, Jordans stands out due to his prior success at Aintree and the context of recent race statistics, which favor younger competitors.
Odds and Bet Preview
Currently priced at 28/1 with Betfred, Jordans presents an intriguing betting opportunity. His trainer believes he is well-suited for the race, considering his prior experience and potential for improvement. Given his form and the lighter weight, he may outperform expectations in the Grand National.
The key question remains: can he maintain the performance level necessary for a race extending over four and a quarter miles? For many punters, the risk is worth the potential reward. Jordans’ recent history suggests he could make a significant impact in this year’s Grand National.
