Stern Idol brilliant in 2025 Crisp Steeplechase win

Stern Idol strengthened his credentials for another shot at the Grand National Steeplechase with an effortless display in Sunday’s Crisp Steeplechase (4200m) at Sandown.

The Ciaron Maher-trained star made all the running to post his third straight win in the race, with jockey Steven Pateman hailing it as the gelding’s best ever performance.

Stern Idol, a hot odds-on favourite, cruised to a 15-length victory over Not Usual Dream, with Field Of Lights finishing third.

He carried 71kg, having previously won the Crisp Steeplechase with 69kg and 70kg before heading to the Grand National Steeplechase, where he retired under top weights.

This year’s Grand National Steeplechase (4500m) has been moved forward and will take place on August 17.

“Everyone is going to ask about Ballarat, but he’s had a great prep, so I’ll leave that up to the team,” Pateman said.

“Today was actually another gallop.

“It’s crazy to say, but he felt the best he ever has today, and he looked amazing, so a shout out to the Ballarat crew.

“They just had him on today and he absolutely galloped.”

Pateman let Stern Idol roll along early before upping the tempo, with the gelding establishing a commanding break approaching the hill.

“Half-way up the hill I couldn’t hear the horses behind me,” Pateman said.

“Usually when you’re in front you can hear the horses jumping the fences, but I didn’t want to look around, but after that I had about 10 looks around.

“It’s a funny feeling riding him as you get a feeling, you’re the only one who can muck it up.

“At the second-last, I was looking down and not at the fence because I didn’t want to start organising him, I looked up and he wings it.

“Coming to the last, because we’re as good as home, I look up, he jumps it fine, safely and smart.”

Trainer Ciaron Maher, who had just flown back from the UK after attending Goodwood’s Group 1 Sussex Stakes, was not on course to witness the win.

“He didn’t have much to say about today when I spoke to him, that’s because we’re lucky to have such a brilliant horse,” Pateman said.

If you’re looking to bet on this year’s Grand National Steeplechase, visit Australia’s top betting sites for the latest odds and offers.