Delta Work: Remembering a Grand National stalwart

The world of National Hunt racing recently bid farewell to one of its modern greats, as Delta Work sadly passed away at the age of 12 following a bout of colic. A battle-hardened staying chaser trained by Gordon Elliott, Delta Work was a multiple Grade 1 winner and a Cheltenham Festival warrior, consistently delivering at the highest level across several seasons.

Gordon Elliott said: “Sadly Delta Work died this morning as a result of colic. After showing signs of colic, he was brought to Fethard Equine Hospital and was operated on but sadly there was nothing that could be done for him.

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“Everyone here is gutted by this news. He was such a huge favourite of the yard and he gave us so many memorable days over so many seasons. As a five-time Grade 1 winner and a triple Cheltenham Festival winner he was everything you could hope for in a racehorse.”

While much of his career was defined by his successes at Prestbury Park, including back-to-back victories in the Cross Country Chase, Delta Work also became a major force in the Grand National. His performances at Aintree cemented his legacy as a true staying chaser, consistently proving his ability to handle the extreme demands of the world's most famous steeplechase.

The Grand National is the ultimate test for staying chasers, demanding a unique blend of stamina, jumping ability, and tactical awareness.

Few horses manage to make a significant impact in multiple renewals, but Delta Work was among the select group that consistently thrived on the biggest stage and was regularly backed in the Grand National betting odds.

Over three consecutive years, he proved his mettle at Aintree, with performances that solidified his reputation as a genuine Grand National contender.

2022: Third place

Delta Work’s first attempt at the Grand National came in 2022, and he entered the race as one of the leading contenders. Carrying 11st 9lb and sent off at 10/1, he settled into a strong rhythm early on, always travelling comfortably in the main pack. As the race unfolded, he remained in touch with the leaders, showcasing his stamina and resilience.

Approaching the final fences, Delta Work loomed as a serious threat, challenging for the lead two fences from home. However, despite his best efforts, he was unable to match the finishing speed of Noble Yeats, who surged clear to claim victory. Delta Work ultimately finished a gallant third, approximately 20 lengths behind the winner, but his performance confirmed that he was a horse made for the Grand National test.

2023: Finished unseated

Hopes were high when Delta Work returned for the 2023 Grand National, with expectations that he could go even closer to victory. This time, he carried 11st 4lb and once again positioned himself well in the early stages, jumping fluently and travelling smoothly through the first circuit.

However, his race came to an abrupt end at the 21st fence, Becher’s Brook, when he unseated his rider, shocking the racing odds.

It was a frustrating outcome for connections and his many supporters, as he had been running strongly up until that point. Despite the disappointment, his class was never in doubt, and he remained a highly respected Grand National contender.

2024: Second place

Determined to make amends for his misfortune in 2023, Delta Work returned for the 2024 Grand National in what would ultimately be his finest performance at Aintree. Sent off at 16/1, he once again carried 11st 4lb and settled into a steady rhythm despite making a slight mistake at the first fence and a more significant error at the eighth.

As the race progressed, Delta Work gradually moved through the field, taking up the lead after the 24th fence. With his trademark battling qualities, he looked to have a real chance of victory, staying on powerfully as the field turned for home. However, in the closing stages, he was reeled in by I Am Maximus, who found another gear and pulled clear to win by seven lengths. Delta Work had to settle for second place, but it was a performance that epitomised his class and tenacity.

A career to remember

Following his near-miss in 2024, Delta Work was widely tipped as a leading ante-post favourite for the 2025 Grand National, with many believing he had the ability to finally claim the race that had eluded him.

Tragically, his career was cut short before he had the chance to make one final attempt at Aintree’s biggest prize.

Though he never won the Grand National, Delta Work’s consistency, bravery, and sheer determination made him a true stalwart of the race. His performances at Aintree will live long in the memory of racing fans, ensuring that his name remains etched in Grand National history.