There are few sights in racing quite like a horse soaring back to glory after adversity — and today at Aintree, the crowd witnessed one of those stirring comebacks. Colonel Harry proved courage and class still course through his veins as he captured the William Hill Grand Sefton Handicap Chase, the first race of the season to be run over the iconic Grand National fences.
After 311 days away from the track and carrying a hefty 11st 12lb, the eight-year-old gelding — trained by Jamie Snowden and ridden by Gavin Sheehan — produced a bold, front-running display to fend off the late challenge of Gaboriot, crossing the line two lengths clear. Behind him, Mahons Glory and Excello filled the minor places after a fiercely contested two miles and five furlongs.
“A Remarkable Horse and a Remarkable Team”
For Snowden, it was a moment of vindication — and relief. This was his second Grand Sefton win, following Hogan’s Height’s victory in 2019, and one that carried extra emotional weight.
“He’s such a talented horse, but he’s been through the wars,” Snowden reflected. “After falling at Cheltenham on New Year’s Day, he suffered a nasty leg infection — the same kind of injury that ended Sir Gino’s season. It was serious. He spent two weeks in the veterinary hospital. To have him back, and winning first time out over these fences, is just incredible. Full credit to the vets, the team at home, and his patient owners.”
Snowden added that Colonel Harry had originally been aimed at the Paddy Power Gold Cup at Cheltenham, but his impressive schooling over the Aintree fences convinced connections to change course. “He was electric when we schooled him in Lambourn,” the trainer said with a smile. “We thought — why not? Let’s have a go. Thankfully, it’s all come right.”
Sheehan’s Ride: From Chaos to Control
Jockey Gavin Sheehan was candid about how the race unfolded. “He was into the boards at the first couple and I made him make a mistake at Becher’s,” he admitted. “From the Canal Turn onwards, though, he came alive. I was pushing from three out, but he found for me every time. He missed the last, and even then, I knew his class would see him through.”
Sheehan, who has built a strong partnership with Snowden’s yard, was visibly moved as he returned to the winner’s enclosure. “It’s great to see him back,” he said. “The owners have been brilliant, and Jamie’s team deserve every bit of this.”
What’s Next for Colonel Harry?
With the William Hill Grand Sefton Handicap Chase now under his belt, Snowden has his eyes set on another Cheltenham appearance — the December Gold Cup, provided the ground comes up soft. “He’s a horse who loves a test,” Snowden noted. “If conditions suit, that’s where we’ll go next.”
Read more race day news and reports at RaceBuzz.
