'We knew we had a National horse' - Monty's Pass and a monster Aintree gamble

Ireland editor Richard Forristal caught up with the connections of Monty's Pass, the 2003 Grand National hero, earlier this year. Monty's Pass has died at the age of 29.

Monty's Pass ambles in from the field with Mary Mangan at his head, the 2003 Grand National hero's ageing frame still demonstrating the casual swagger and aura of an equine boss. He is 29 years old and will always be the man around here.

When you drive into Conna, the sleepy north County Cork village that skirts the Waterford border, to this day you are greeted by a sign that proclaims it the home of Monty's Pass. The signage has been updated over the years, but that eponymous honour remains. This is his domain.