In a race packed with drama, heart, and no shortage of surprises, it was Haiti Couleurs who came storming up the hill at Fairyhouse to take the 2024 Irish Grand National – a victory that left few dry-eyed and plenty of punters smiling.
The 16-1 shot, trained by Rebecca Curtis and expertly ridden by Sean Bowen, produced a gutsy late run to overhaul early leader Hartur D’arc in the closing strides, sealing a remarkable result for a team that hasn’t exactly been front and centre on the big stage in recent years.
For Curtis, this was more than just a win – it was a moment of redemption. Based in West Wales, she’s had a quiet spell of late, but this was a reminder of the talent that once saw her send out the likes of At Fishers Cross and Teaforthree. She said after the race, “We haven’t had horses like we used to, and to win a race like this is just amazing. It’s been tough, and this makes it all worthwhile.”
It was an emotional scene in the winner’s enclosure. Curtis fought back tears while embracing her jockey and team, the sheer scale of the achievement starting to sink in. The Irish Grand National isn’t just any handicap chase – it’s a true test of staying power, nerve, and heart. Haiti Couleurs showed all three in abundance.
Bowen Brilliant
This was also a landmark day for Sean Bowen, the current leader in the British jockeys’ championship and a rider known for his cool head and tactical sharpness. He delivered Haiti Couleurs perfectly, biding his time and keeping the horse settled through the early stages of the 3m5f contest before making his move after the final turn.
Bowen, clearly moved by the occasion, said:
“You dream of days like this. He travelled beautifully the whole way and just kept finding. I’m thrilled for Rebecca – she’s worked so hard for this.”
It’s not every day you see a Welsh-trained, British-ridden horse come over and take the spoils in the biggest race on the Irish Easter calendar, but that’s what makes jumps racing so special. On paper, Haiti Couleurs wasn’t the obvious winner, but once the race got going, the seven-year-old travelled like a horse that meant business.
Punters Caught Out
Plenty of backers were left scratching their heads after the result.
The well-fancied Nick Rockett, who went off favourite, never really landed a blow, finishing well down the field, while others like Senior Chief and Meetingofthewaters failed to fire.
Hartur D’arc, who made much of the running, was game in defeat, only giving best late on. It was a brave effort, but the tank just emptied when it mattered.
Trainer Gavin Cromwell was gracious in defeat, saying: “He ran his heart out. Just found one too good today.”
A Special One for Curtis
Curtis has always been a respected trainer, but this win – her first in Ireland – could prove a turning point. The yard has been quieter in recent years, and she admitted that keeping things going hasn’t always been easy:
“We’ve got a small team now, but they’re a good bunch. And this horse, he’s always shown us something at home.”
The partnership with Bowen was also a highlight – the pair have teamed up more frequently this season, and this victory only strengthens that link.
For Curtis, this could be the spark that reignites her yard, and you wouldn’t bet against Haiti Couleurs picking up more big races if he stays fit.
Looking Ahead
As the dust settles on another thrilling Irish Grand National, there’ll be questions asked about the performances of some of the market principals. But for Curtis and Bowen, and for anyone who had a fiver on Haiti Couleurs at 16s, this was a day to savour.
And in a sport that can be unforgiving, moments like this – a small yard taking on the powerhouses and coming out on top – are exactly what racing fans live for.
There’s something magical about Fairyhouse in the spring. This year, it belonged to Haiti Couleurs.
