ONE of Paul Townend’s greatest strengths as a rider is making challenging rides look a whole lot more straightforward than is actually the case.That was again evidenced to real effect in I Am Maximus’ historic second Grand National triumph last weekend.

Whether it be managing to keep a lid on the wayward Brandy Love in Grade 1 company a few seasons ago, caressing back-to-back top-level victories out of strong-travelling but error-prone Jasmin De Vaux last term, or even harnessing the enthusiasm of Ballyburn and a young Gaelic Warrior, the seven-time champion jockey so often gets those difficult balances on the money when it matters most. It is a truly elite quality, and his relationship with the horse now on the cusp of emulating Red Rum has been intriguing to follow.