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Monday 24th March 2025
   

A Brief History of the Aintree Grand National

The Grand National is the most famous steeplechase in the world, held annually at Aintree Racecourse in Liverpool, England. Known for its unpredictable nature, challenging fences, and thrilling finishes, it is one of the most prestigious and watched horse races globally.

Aintree Grand National

The first official Grand National took place in 1839, won by Lottery, a very apt name for the winner of a very unpredictable race. Just like the odds of losing blackjack 10 times in a row the probability of finding the winner can be difficult.

Aintree’s formidable fences, including Becher’s Brook, The Chair, and Canal Turn, quickly earned the race its reputation as the ultimate test of horse and rider.

In 1869, The Duke became the first horse to win back-to-back Nationals.

In 1993, the race was declared void after a false start controversy, the only time this has happened in its history.

In 2010, AP McCoy won his first Grand National on Don’t Push It, after 15 previous attempts.

In 2020, the race was canceled due to COVID-19, replaced by a virtual Grand National simulation.

Changes to fences and race conditions have made the event safer in recent years.

The Grand National has a rich history filled with legendary winners. Here are some of the most famous horses to have triumphed at Aintree:

1. Red Rum (1973, 1974, 1977)

  • The most famous Grand National horse of all time.

  • The only horse to win three times.

  • Also finished second in 1975 and 1976.

  • His comeback win in 1977 remains one of the greatest moments in racing history.

2. Tiger Roll (2018, 2019)

  • First horse since Red Rum to win back-to-back Grand Nationals.

  • Trained by Gordon Elliott and owned by Gigginstown House Stud.

  • Would have had a chance at a third win in 2020, but the race was canceled due to COVID-19.

3. Aldaniti (1981)

  • Famous for the emotional story of his jockey, Bob Champion, who overcame cancer to win.

  • His victory was made into the movie Champions.

4. Foinavon (1967)

  • Won at 100/1 after a huge pile-up at the 23rd fence.

  • The fence is now named after him.

5. Devon Loch (1956 - Didn't Win, But Became Famous!)

  • Leading just yards from the finish, he suddenly collapsed without explanation.

  • Owned by Queen Elizabeth, The Queen Mother.

6. Mr. Frisk (1990)

  • Holds the fastest winning time (8m 47.80s).

  • Ridden by amateur jockey Marcus Armytage.

7. Mon Mome (2009)

  • Won at 100/1, one of the biggest upsets in Grand National history.

8. Don’t Push It (2010)

  • Famous as the first Grand National winner for legendary jockey AP McCoy, after 15 previous attempts.

9. Neptune Collonges (2012)

  • The closest finish in Grand National history, winning by just a nose.

10. Corach Rambler (2023)

  • A popular winner trained by Lucinda Russell and ridden by Derek Fox.

The Grand National remains the most-watched horse race in the world, with millions tuning in across 140+ countries.

The race continues to produce legendary moments and underdog victories, making it one of the most beloved sporting events.

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