A year-long wait culminated in a sweet return to the winner’s enclosure for She’s A Saint, who stormed to victory in the Hallgarten And Novum Wines Handicap Hurdle on Ladies Day at the Randox Grand National Festival. The triumph marked a much-needed morale boost for Dan Skelton’s yard, which had endured a run of near-misses earlier in the week.
The six-year-old mare, sent off at 25-1, produced a remarkable performance despite her long absence from competitive action. Her comeback showcased not only her raw talent but also the importance of patience in training and race planning. The decision to let her run was a collaborative one between the trainer and owners, who demonstrated commendable trust in their horse and her ability to handle the prevailing conditions.
Rider Tristan Durrell executed a tactically astute ride, conserving energy for the final stretch and timing the late burst to perfection. It was a display of confidence and skill, belying concerns that the extended time off the track might dull the mare’s sharpness. As rivals began to falter in the closing stages, She’s A Saint surged ahead, proving she hadn’t lost her competitive edge.
Durrell, clearly moved by the victory, acknowledged the emotional weight of the moment. Having been part of the Skelton team since his teenage years, the win was more than just a professional milestone — it was a deeply personal one. His praise for the owners’ resolve and the stable’s support reflected the collective effort behind this result.
The runner-up, Slugger, looked poised to steal the spotlight, travelling strongly into contention. However, despite an eye-catching performance, he couldn’t quite repel the late challenge from the eventual winner. His trainer, Harry Derham, expressed understandable disappointment, but also immense pride in the horse’s consistent form this season. Moving up significantly in ratings, Slugger has little to reproach and appears to have a bright future ahead.
In a week where results hadn’t always gone their way, Skelton’s team finally found reward for their perseverance. The win by She’s A Saint was not just a return to form — it was a statement of resilience and expert horsemanship.
