'Slippers' Madden announces retirement Grand National winning jockey Niall 'Slippers' Madden has announced his retirement from the saddle at Punchestown this afternoon. Madden rode Numbersixvalverde to win the 2006 running of the Grand National at Aintree. Other career highlights include Grade 1 victories on Jazz Messenger at Kempton and Nickname at Leopardstown on consecutive days over the Christmas period in December 2006. He also won a Galway Hurdle on More Rainbows the previous year while Rockall Blizzard gave him a Listed winner on the Flat at Ballybrit in September 2006. "I’ve had a great career. I had my first ride here in 2001 and it was nice to finish up at my local track," said Madden. “The Grand National was obviously the big highlight and I rode two Grade 1 winners — the Christmas Hurdle on Jazz Messenger and the two-mile chase at Leopardstown over Christmas on Nickname. “I’d like to thank all the owners and trainers who have supported me over the years and obviously mam and dad and Aine (O’Connor, fiancee). Unfortunately they can’t be here today but I’m delighted to come out on my own terms. “I’ve no major plans although there are a few roads I’d like to go down. Nothing is set in stone and I’m open to all job offers. “I’d also like to give my condolences to John McManus and his family on their very sad loss.”
