[1] He garnered one victory over hurdles, a £2000 race at Newcastle in January 2007, but failed to win at Graded level, including attempts at the 2007 Cheltenham and Aintree festivals (although he was placed at the latter).

The following season he met former Cheltenham Gold Cup champion, Kauto Star, in the 2009 Betfair Chase at Haydock, and was beaten by a mere nose.

Again ridden by Paddy Brennan, Imperial Commander won the 2010 Cheltenham Gold Cup,[3] beating favourites and previous champions Kauto Star and Denman.

A comeback second in the 2013 Argento Chase at Cheltenham showed he was 'set to remain competitive in top company'[1] and a tilt at the Grand National was mooted.

Thus, as a 12-year-old, Imperial Commander ran in the 2013 Grand National as the top weight, ridden by his trainer's son, Sam Twiston-Davies.