Papillon landed an almighty gamble, having been backed from 33/1 down to 10/1, all the more impressive when considering it was Ruby Walsh’s debut in the race.

Papillon was brought in 1995 for 5,300 guineas, purchased by Trainer Ted Walsh on behalf of the American owner Betty Moran. A smart performer he had been tested in the ’97 Irish National as young as six, and placed forth in the Hennessy of 1999. In 2000′s National Papillon had the going required and was well handicapped. He benefited from a sharpener outing ahead of the National by coming third in a Leopardstown hurdle. After his victory Papillon would finish a distant and remounted forth in 2001 (going too heavy), was withdrawn injured ahead of 2002 and in 2003 though entered in the race he was retired a month ahead of the race.

Starting Price: 10/1

Age: 9 years

Winning Distance: 1 length

Owner: Mrs J. Maxwell Moran

Jockey: Ruby Walsh

Weight Carried: 10st12lb

Runners: 40

2nd: Mile Moss

3rd: Niki Dee

4Th: Brave Highlander

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