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The Ryan Potter-trained Jetoile sprung a 25/1 surprise in the Grade 2 Old Roan Chase at Aintree on Sunday.

Although the eight-year-old gelding has shown glimpses of promise over his career, including a second behind Constitution Hill in the Grade 1 Tolworth Hurdle in January 2022, the Aintree victory was by far his best achievement to date.

Partnered by Daryl Jacob, Jetoile settled in the midfield before making enough headway to move into second place after the revised final fence (all obstacles in the home straight were omitted). Although Minella Drama had appeared to have the race under control, Jetoile managed to take the lead as the pair passed the final omitted fence and stayed on well to secure the victory by one-and-three-quarter lengths.

It marked a first Grade 2 success for trainer Ryan Potter.

"At the start of last season we thought he was going to be one of the top novice chasers in the country," said Potter.

"He slipped at Cheltenham and he lost his confidence and it took him until the end of season to get it back. I know he didn't beat loads, but he was so impressive at Chepstow.

"I'm under no illusions that a lot of these big yards will be using this race as a stepping stone, but I had him ready for today as I felt it was a great opportunity so I had him fit. The bookmakers might have dismissed his chances but I didn't.

"I ride him every day and he has been working unbelievable at home. He is a yard superstar and I will probably never have another one like him. I'm only in my third season training and this is extraordinary. I'm nearly crying.

"This has been since the target since the day we turned him out after winning at Chepstow. I'm hoping because the fences were out that the handicapper won't be so hard on him as if the fences were in he would have won easier. All he does is jump and travel. The fences being out has hopefully done us a favour with the handicapper."

Paddy Power introduced Jetoile into the Ryanair Chase market at 33/1.