Police horse Silver is trusted with one of the most important jobs at the Grand National.

The 18-year-old gelding, who serves with Merseyside Police, marked a special milestone this year when he led in the winner of the Aintree showpiece for a 10th time. The moment was even more special as Silver was taken to veterinary hospital in August last year for emergency colic surgery.

The team at the University of Liverpool’s Philip Leverhulme Equine Hospital found a lipoma was causing the issue.

“What followed was a long road to recovery: box rest, endless cuddles, careful hand walks, hand grazing and gentle time back out in the paddock,” said a police spokesperson.

“Fast forward to now, he’s fully recovered, back on full duties and loving the attention. We’re all convinced he thought the crowd was there just for him!”

The spokesperson said the police horses “always make us proud” but Silver “really outdid himself” at Aintree.

Silver was joined by his equine colleague Owen to accompany 2026 Randox Grand National hero I Am Maximus into the winners’ enclosure on Saturday (11 April).

Reflecting on the festival as a whole, Merseyside Police chief inspector Geoff Stewart said: “Merseyside has welcomed huge crowds at Aintree this week and I would like to thank the vast majority of racegoers for enjoying themselves safely and responsibly, while helping make it another successful event for the region.

“During the course of the three days our officers have enjoyed engaging with racegoers and ensuring their safety, and we are pleased to report there was a great atmosphere throughout with a low number of incidents.

“Months of extensive planning alongside our partner agencies goes into large-scale events such as this to ensure they run as smoothly as possible.

“Given the numbers of people attending, I am delighted that once again the overwhelming majority of visitors behaved themselves responsibly and enjoyed the fantastic atmosphere.”

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Aintree great channels Red Rum to reclaim Grand National title: ‘He’ll gallop to the end of the world for you’

‘You really connect with a horse like this’: galloping grey finds his groove to shine for Skeltons at Grand National Festival

‘He would beat Artemis II to the Moon’: Barton Snow rockets to Foxhunters’ glory on opening day of Grand National Festival

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I Am Maximus has won the 2026 Randox Grand National – becoming the first horse to regain the title since the great Red Rum.

The Willie Mullins-trained 10-year-old carried top weight of 11st 12lb and led home a dominant hand for owner JP McManus, who owned three of the first four over the finish line.

I Am Maxiumus closed in on leader Jordans at the elbow, leaving him in his slipstream as he powered up the run-in to win in emphatic style.

“He will gallop to the end of the world for you,” said winning jockey Paul Townend, who was also in the saddle for the horse’s first Grand National win in 2024 and when he finished runner-up in last year’s race.

“He’s so good; he has such an engine. It’s a privilege to have anything to do with him, what a horse.”

Mullins had nine potential contenders runners in the race – down to eight by the time they lined up following the withdrawal of defending champion Nick Rockett – but Townend only ever had eyes for I Am Maxiumus.

“Obviously Grangeclare West’s preparation was really good in the Bobbyjo, which I won on Nick Rockett in 2025 and who then came here last year and beat me, but this lad wasn’t telling me not to ride him, so I couldn’t not ride him,” he said.

Mullins, who today equalled Ginger McCain and Fred Rimell’s record of saddling four Grand National winners, hinted that we may see him in next year’s race.

“Hopefully I’ll be here, and hopefully I Am Maximus will be here. I think JP is very keen on I Am Maximus for the National, he says he loves the place, he jumps the fences well, we’ve got a great team with Paul, so hopefully we are all here next year,” he said.

“I imagine JP won’t hear of anything else, so there’ll be this little game going on – I’ll stick him in the Gold Cup, JP will take him out and I’ll stick him back in and he’ll take him out, so that’s what was happening this year. And he said, ‘No, we’re going to skip the Gold Cup’, and it proved so right.”

“Anyone would be emotional. Wow. It was a good call from JP – I wanted to go for the Gold Cup and he said, ‘We’re going to stay for Aintree’, as he felt he was well handicapped. Paul just executed it so well, didn’t he?

“It’s very hard [to win off top weight], but maybe the modern day National is changing and we have to look at it differently.

“It’s the first race we all grew up watching and the race we aspire to win when we go into racing. It’s a race you grow up watching and want to be a part of, just to have a runner is a tremendous sensation and for our owners – just to be involved and here at Aintree is great.”

It’s 49 years since Red Rum regained the title he won in 1973 and 1974, a feat that until now, only two others had achieved – both in the Victorian era. The Lamb, who won in 1868 and 1871, and Manifesto, the winner of the 1897 and 1899 editions.

I Am Maximus’s greatness is clear cut. It’s also on his own terms. His quirks are a part of his strength; the team around him work with that mercurial streak and so he is able to shine on the biggest stage of all. There will be ice-cream for fans at his home-coming celebrations, just don’t ask him for a selfie.

“He will eat you without salt. He is a character – don’t stand in his way!” said Mullins, with a smile.

“When he won the Irish National I said to Paul, whatever you do don’t come off the inside, and the horse refused to race on the inside. After two miles Paul said, sod this and went to the outside. The minute the horse went to the outside he had his ears pricked and he liked it. But he’s by Authorized, and horses by Authorized have that little bit of a quirk in them. You could call it immaturity, whatever, but they’re very good – but they have that quirk. You just don’t want to annoy him – you want to get on his right side.”

‘He ran a blinder’

Fellow McManus horse Iroko, ridden by Jonjo O’Neill Jr, finished second for local trainers Oliver Greenall and Josh Guerriro, who are also eyeing a return for next year’s race with their star.

“The build-up to this has been so intense, I think being local… I burst into tears when he got to the line, I felt like a pressure cooker being released,” said Greenall.

Guerriro added: “I’m very proud of him, he’s run a blinder. He finished fourth last year when I Am Maximus was second and he’s probably been beaten a similar distance today.

“We’ll come back and win it next year. He’s got even more experience now and probably his Cheltenham prep wasn’t the best. I Am Maximus will be another year older and we are only eight. It wasn’t to be today, but we’ll win it one day.”

Joseph O’Brien-trained Jordans was third, piloted by Ben Jones. Mr McManus also scooped fourth place with Johnnywho, ridden by Richie McLernon and trained by Jonjo O’Neill Sr.

Randox Grand National 2026 result: full finishing order

Position, horse, jockey, trainer

1 I Am Maximus, Paul Townend, Willie Mullins

2 Iroko, Jonjo O’Neill Jr, Oliver Greenall and Josh Guerriero

3 Jordans, Ben Jones, Joseph O’Brien

4 Johnnywho, Richie McLernon, Jonjo and A.J. O’Neill

5 High Class Hero, James Bowen, Willie Mullins

6 Favori De Champdou, Danny Gilligan, Gordon Elliott

7 Final Orders, Conor Stone-Walsh, Gavin Cromwell

8 Champ Kiely, Danny Mullins, Willie Mullins

9 Three Card Brag, Jordan Gainford, Gordon Elliott

10 Monty’s Star, Darragh O’Keeffe, Henry de Bromhead

11 Answer To Kayf, John Shinnick, Terence O’Brien

12 Gorgeous Tom, Sean Flanagan, Henry de Bromhead

14 Haiti Couleurs, Sean Bowen, Rebecca Curtis

15 Twig, Beau Morgan, Ben Pauling

16 Firefox, Keith Donoghue, Gordon Elliott

Non-finishers

Lecky Watson (pulled up 29th fence), Spanish Harlem (pulled up before 27th fence), The Real Whacker (pulled up before 13th fence), Amirite (pulled up before 29th fence), Banbridge (unseated rider 15th fence), Beauport (unseated rider 19th fence), Captain Cody (unseated rider 27th fence), Grangeclare West (unseated rider first fence), Jagwar (unseated rider 19th fence), Oscars Brother (unseated rider 15th fence), Perceval Legallois (unseated rider 27th fence), Gerri Colombe (fell seventh fence), Marble Sands (fell 18th fence), Mr Vango (fell sixth fence), Panic Attack (fell third fence), Quai De Bourbon (fell second fence), Stellar Story (fell 19th fence), Top Of The Bill (fell 30th fence).

Winning time: 9 minutes 9.68 seconds

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‘You really connect with a horse like this’: galloping grey finds his groove to shine for Skeltons at Grand National Festival

‘He would beat Artemis II to the Moon’: Barton Snow rockets to Foxhunters’ glory on opening day of Grand National Festival

Grey Dawning found his groove in the Melling Chase following a high-octane pas de deux with Solness on day two of the Randox Grand National Festival.

Solness led until the second last, when Grey Dawning kicked away from the field and loomed up his inside. The two titans rose together over the final two fences, locked in battle to the line. Grey Dawning held on, passing the winning post first by a neck in front of Aintree’s sell-out Ladies’ Day crowd.

The nine-year-old gelding ran gallantly to finish fourth in last month’s Cheltenham Gold Cup, so the drop back in trip and first-time cheekpieces in the Grade One feature race was an intriguing move.

“We said we had him in the best shape we could for a Gold Cup and that’s the truth,” said winning trainer Dan Skelton. “We had him in Gold Cup form but unfortunately he’s not good enough to win a Gold Cup. You then have to start batting clever.”

And so they did.

“I was always going to come to this, do something slightly different. What we were doing, we were doing well at, but we weren’t quite winning, so you have to change things,” said Skelton.

“We put the cheekpieces on just to help him a little bit – we didn’t think he needed them for any sort of quirkiness reason, but when you’re dropping back in trip it’s better to have them and not need them than not have them and need them. But he was brave at the back of the last, brave when he perhaps hasn’t sometimes been in the past, I must say, but it can take time sometimes, and what a place for it to happen.”

He added: “He’s been a great horse and he knows how to dance the big dances now. He’s not quite good enough to win a Gold Cup, but we can dance some other dances.”

Winning jockey Harry Skelton dedicated the win to owner Robert Kirkland’s late wife, Lesley, remembering her as a “tremendous lady” and nodding to the support the Kirklands have given him and his brother since they first started out.

“Solness is a tough horse to ride against because you don’t want to take him on too soon. He’s a little terrier, but full credit to our horse as he had the guts and put his head down where it mattered,” said the jockey.

“Solness keeps finding and you don’t want to put your cards on the table too soon, so I was just trying to hold on until we got down to the last. I got a good jump at the last thankfully and then my hands were open. He had to dig deep and he did.

“You really connect with a horse like this and I have a real love for him. Because he’s grey a lot of people have taken to him as well and he’s a multiple Grade One winner now.”

“The same bit of luck would be ideal”

Teenager Conor Stone-Walsh would dream he was sailing over the Grand National fences when he was riding his pony as a child.

The 19-year-old rising star lived that dream with a foot-perfect spin over the iconic fences to win the Randox Topham Chase aboard flashy chestnut Will The Wise for trainer Gavin Cromwell.

“I remember, when we were kids, making Grand National jumps for our ponies, and it’s massive to get a win over these fences,” said Conor, who also scored his first Cheltenham Festival winner this year.

“I grew up hunting with the Killinick Harriers, Pony Clubbing and point-to-pointing, and I’ve always wanted to ride at these big meetings. I ride Final Orders in the Grand National tomorrow – the same bit of luck would be ideal!”

“I rode on the Flat for Joseph O’Brien, but I only ever wanted to be a jump jockey and have worked for Gavin since I started over jumps. Gavin’s been very good to me, and his owners have been very good as well, so big thanks to them.”

Birthday gift keeps on giving

Wellington Arch showed how he has strengthened up over the past 12 months with a repeat of his 2025 success in the William Hill Handicap Hurdle.

The Blue Bresil seven-year-old, bought by Mary Gaskell for her husband Mike as a birthday gift, held on well to win by just over a length in the hands of Jonjo O’Neill Jr.

“His jumping was a little bit sketchy at one stage but ‘Jonje’ has done a great job getting him back into a rhythm to go and win again off a considerably higher mark than last year,” said AJ O’Neill, who trains the winner alongside his father Jonjo.

“It was a very brave performance and ‘Jonje’ gave him an awesome ride and had him in a great spot all the way. He went to Punchestown afterwards last year and we might consider it, but we’ll enjoy today first.”

Neil King celebrates storming first Grade One win

Storming George surged past his rivals in the closing stages of the Thatprizeguy Top Novices’ Hurdle to give trainer Neil King a first Grade One win.

“He’s a horse we made ourselves after buying him as a store (unbroken three-year-old) from Goffs. It’s been a fabulous journey with the most wonderful owner behind him in Mr [Peter] Beadles,” said King, also crediting jockey Jack Quinlan.

“I’ve always thought he’s a lovely horse and he’ll jump a fence as well. He’s always been a great jumper.”

He added: “How can I sum up 30 years of really hard work in one sentence? We do this day in and day out, all of us. We do it for the love of the horse and we love the sport. To get that kind of a result is just fantastic.”

Sad epitaph for Gold Dancer

In a sad note to the day, Gold Dancer was put down after winning the second race – the William Hill Mildmay Novices’ Chase.

The seven-year-old gelding momentarily lost his back end when jumping the final fence and continued to win. He was pulled up after the line and jockey Paul Townend quickly dismounted.

A spokesperson for Aintree Racecourse said that the horse “was immediately attended to by our expert veterinary team but sadly he could not be saved” and added that the racecourses’s “heartfelt condolences are with his connections”.

A British Horseracing Authority (BHA) stewards’ enquiry stated: “An enquiry was held into the riding of the winner […] from jumping the final fence up until rounding the bend towards the pull up area after which the gelding was immediately assessed by veterinary surgeons and subsequently euthanised on welfare grounds. Townend and the [BHA] director of equine regulation, safety, and welfare were both interviewed and shown recordings of the incident.

“Townend explained that Gold Dancer had made a bad mistake at the last fence after which it had taken a stride or two for the gelding to gather himself before, in his opinion, running on in a straight line to the winning line where Gold Dancer felt sound.

“Townend added that it was only until rounding the bend towards the pull up area that the gelding’s action changed when Gold Dancer went from a canter to a trot after which he immediately dismounted from the gelding.

“After reviewing the footage, the director of equine, safety, and welfare explained that Gold Dancer’s action was typical of a three-mile chaser in the final stages of a race and supported the evidence of Townend. After hearing all of their evidence, the stewards noted Townend’s explanation.”

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As Barton Snow swept across Merseyside, all trainer Joe O’Shea could see was the sun.

The former rag and bone man, who traces his love of Aintree to sneaking into the racecourse as a child to watch Rag Trade win in 1976, had to take the media’s word for how impressive his horse was, how cooly jockey Henry Crow rode, how easily he won the Randox Foxhunters’ Open Hunter Chase (9 April). The glare reflecting from the big screen meant he instead had to turn to his minds’ eye to picture Barton Snow rocketing to the Aintree-Cheltenham hunter chase double. But he knows how good this horse is.

“He’s so fast, he would beat Artemis II to the Moon!” said O’Shea, for whom this was a third Aintree Foxhunters’ success at the Grand National meeting. “If NASA had phoned me I could have got them to the moon and back in nine days, and it’s taking them 10.”

The nine-year-old, who won last month’s Princess Royal Hunters’ Chase at the Cheltenham Festival and who is now unbeaten in his last eight starts in hunter chases and point-to-points, looked well within his comfort zone as he cruised home seven lengths ahead of runner-up Lets Go Champ. Jockey Henry Crow took a peek over each shoulder after in the run-in – his only perceptible move in the saddle – and Barton Snow lengthened comfortably away to win with ease.

“We don’t know how good he is. He does this at home every day,” said O’Shea, who is recovering from a quadruple heart bypass.

“He’s an amazing horse, and again Henry says he’s done it in third gear. We first realised how good he was at Stratford last year, and he doesn’t just do 37 miles an hour for 100yards – he keeps it up.”

It’s 50 years since O’Shea crept into Aintree to put 10 shillings on Rag Trade. His first Foxhunters with Cousin Pascal came 45 years later (2021), followed by Gracchus De Balme in 2025. It’s the horses, he says, and the love of the game that gets him out of bed in the morning.

“It’s the thought of the opposition getting up before me and working their horses overtaking me. Getting to the top was easy; it’s staying there that’s hard,” he told H&H. “That’s what gets me out of bed. And having horses like him, Gracchus De Balme, and an unbelievable novice in Boley Bob, who is by the same stallion, Snow Sky, and who hasn’t been beaten yet.”

Crow, a 25-year-old Shropshire farmer, who has been in the saddle for all three of Barton Snow’s hunter chase triumphs this season, gave all the credit to the horse and to O’Shea.

“I’m the first Crow to be on this roll of honour, but all the praise should go to Joe – I feel very grateful he put me on. It’s all down to him. He gave me my very first ride and my very first winner and without him, I wouldn’t be here today,” he said.

Gold Cup runner-up shines at Aintree

Gold Cup runner-up Jango Baie, trained by Nicky Henderson, bounced out of Cheltenham to win the Grade One Racing Welfare Bowl.

“I think he’s put to bed that stat that they go to the Gold Cup and then don’t come here,” said jockey Nico de Boinville, who himself bounced back after parting company from favourite Lulamba in the William Hill Manifesto Novices’ Chase half-an-hour earlier.

“It’s a funny old game and it certainly keeps you meek and humble. It will certainly put manners on you,” said de Boinville, reflecting on his swing in fortunes in the space of two races. “You just have to look at yourself in the mirror and say, ‘Come on, lad. Chin up, let’s go again.”

He added: “My stomach was on the floor going into the race after Lulamba. [Luhlamba] was travelling really well and I thought he jumped the fence cleanly but suddenly he pecked on landing. His back-end must have overtaken the front and he’s gone down on his knees and then come back up and pushed me out of the way. It happens a lot. It’s gravity, and I wished I was on the moon! It was the right trip, and he’ll be a year older next year.”

Henderson added that the King George and the Gold Cup will be the likely targets for Jango Baie again next season.

“Coming here was the only option after the Gold Cup. We had the extra week this year; it’s always hard,” he said. “Both horses – him and Lulamba – came here great. What happened with Lulamba – he was fresh as paint and in great shape, well done everyone at home – but it was tough for Nico for that to happen and to come to another Grade One and have to pick yourself up, that’s testament to a proper Grade One jockey.”

‘I’d imagine she’s going to go chasing’

Brighterdaysahead sealed a double of Grade Ones on day one for trainer Gordon Elliott and jockey Jack Kennedy in a gripping William Hill Aintree Hurdle, which featured the horses who finished second to fifth in the 2026 Champion Hurdle at Cheltenham last month.

“This is probably her trip and she was awesome. I was nervous but it was kind of easy to watch and Jack was brilliant on her. It’s great for everyone at Gigginstown who have been massive supporters of mine, through thick and thin,” said Elliott.

“She’s a good mare and that’s why she wins over two miles, but I think two and a half is probably her trip. I’d imagine she’s going to go chasing. She was supposed to go this year but she pulled a muscle and that’s why she didn’t.

“She hasn’t won at Cheltenham but she ran a great race there this year.”

The pair also teamed up to win the opener with Mange Tout.

H&H is bringing you news from the 2026 Randox Grand National Festival. Don’t miss the bumper magazine report, in the shops Thursday, 16 April.

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Rachael Blackmore named Aintree legend as she takes on new Grand National challenge

Rachael Blackmore will join the ITV Racing presenting team at Aintree for its coverage of the Randox Grand National on Saturday (11 April).

Rachael, who won the 2021 race aboard Minella Times, will join fellow Grand National-winning jockeys Sir AP McCoy, Ruby Walsh and Mick Fitzgerald on the presenting team this year.

She said she is looking forward to joining the line-up, adding: “It is one of the most iconic races and transcends our sport, capturing the attention of millions all around the world.

“This year will be a completely different experience for me, not going into the weighing room, but I’m excited for the challenge.”

ITV Racing editor Paul Cooper said Rachael is “an icon in racing, as both a top-class jockey and now an ambassador for the sport”.

“We are really looking forward to having her with us on Randox Grand National day,” he said.

The 36-year-old, who retired from race-riding in 2025, was also inducted as a Grand National legend on the opening day of the 2026 festival today (9 April).

Her plaque will be attached to the wall of Blackmore’s, a new alcohol-free bar at Aintree, which she also opened today.

“Aintree is such an incredibly special place,” she said. “I was so lucky to have an amazing day here in 2021, and I absolutely love coming back. I love Liverpool – I love the city, I love the people, and it’s just a fantastic place.

“When I see the list of names – including equine athletes – on the Grand National legends roll of honour, it’s so special to be part of that and a great honour. And to see this beautiful bar opened – I never thought there’d be a racecourse bar named after me! It’s a very special thing. It does hit home how lucky I am.

“I think it is a brilliant initiative to have an alcohol-free space; it’s a really cool place, there’s something else on offer. I don’t drink myself, so I’d better be able to get a free hot chocolate in a minute!”

Aintree racecourse chair Julian Taylor said it is “an enormous privilege” to induct Rachael as an Aintree legend and that her great moment in 2021 is “one that none of us will ever forget”.

“You are a sporting icon, not just here at Aintree but globally, and you are also a lovely human being. Many congratulations to you,” he said.

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The Grand National runners and riders for 2026 are looking ahead to what is billed as the world’s greatest steeplechase. The £1m Randox Grand National takes place every April at Aintree Racecourse in Merseyside.

The historic race was first run in 1839, when the aptly named Lottery was crowned the first-ever Grand National winner and legendary horses, trainers and jockeys have been making sporting history in the 4m 2f contest ever since.

Sadly last year’s winner Nick Rockett will not be among the starters after he was withdrawn from the race early on Thursday morning, reportedly owing to a cough. Pied Piper and Spillane’s Tower will also not be taking part.

Once you’ve read the form guide, check out our Grand National tips provided by racing experts.

Grand National 2026 runners form guide

Below are all the Grand National runners and riders lining up for Aintree’s world-famous race, following the official declarations on Wednesday 8 April 2026. Download our Grand National sweepstake kit if you want to get involved ahead of the big race, and find out how to read a racecard to learn more about form.

1. I Am Maximus

10yo bay gelding by Authorized

Weight: 11st 12lb

Trainer: Willie Mullins

Owner: JP McManus

Jockey: Paul Townend

Form: 82-925

Trained in Co Carlow by Willie Mullins who 12 months ago saddled the first three in the National, with this horse splitting stablemates Nick Rockett and Grangeclare West. All three try again and are similarly weighted. I Am Maximus won the race in 2024 and his form has barely deteriorated, but now 10 he is not getting quicker. A likely top-six finisher who can add to the £1.1m he has won in prize money.

3. Banbridge

10yo chestnut gelding by Doyen

Weight: 11st 11lb

Trainer: Joseph O’Brien

Owner: Ronnie Bartlett

Jockey: JJ Slevin

Form: 7-4423

Presents those who fancy a flutter with a conundrum, because he is high class, but does he have the stamina for a Grand National? His dam’s half-brother tried and failed, but if Banbridge gets into a rhythm on his first attempt over these fences he should run well. Recent form includes being beaten by the length of a flared nostril in Boxing Day’s King George VI Chase before another good effort at the Cheltenham Festival.

4. Grangeclare West

10yo bay gelding by Presenting

Weight: 11st 10lb

Trainer: Willie Mullins

Owner: Cheveley Park Stud

Jockey: Patrick Mullins

Form: 5-8481

“A brilliant jumper” according to top jockey Paul Townend, and ran a scorcher when third in this race last year. Four further defeats followed, but in February he won Fairyhouse’s Bobbyjo Chase, a noted Grand National trial and in which he defeated no fewer than seven horses who are set to reoppose him at Aintree. Has 2lb more on his back than last year, but with luck in running he should be thereabouts again.

5. Gerri Colombe

10yo bay gelding by Saddler Maker

Weight: 11st 10lb

Trainer: Gordon Elliott

Owner: Robcour

Jockey: Jack Kennedy

Form: 3-P321

A class act, as proven by his second place in last year’s Cheltenham Gold Cup and then a Grade One victory at Aintree the following month. Finished a good second to Grangeclare West in February’s Bobbyjo Chase and then beat three rivals when winning at Down Royal (Nick Rockett third). Stamina for this race an unknown, but has won or been placed in 17 of his 18 races and has never fallen.

6. Haiti Couleurs

9yo bay gelding by Dragon Dancer

Weight: 11st 10lb

Trainer: Rebecca Curtis

Owner: Conyers, McDermott & Prowting

Jockey: Sean Bowen

Form: -1P11P

Trained on Pembrokeshire’s coast this horse will have broken some hearts when pulling up in last month’s Cheltenham Gold Cup. “As flat as a pancake” was jockey Sean Bowen’s verdict on that run, but with a CV that includes wins in the Welsh and Irish Grand Nationals he cannot be ignored. Soft ground would help and his trainer is pretty cute at targeting big races.

8. Firefox

8yo bay gelding by Walk In The Park

Weight: 11st 4lb

Trainer: Gordon Elliott

Owner: Bective Stud

Jockey: Keith Donoghue

Form: 2-1246

One of five likely runners in the race by stallion Walk In The Park, and while unlikely to find his Grand National attempt reflects his sire’s name he could give a good account. Outclassed in last month’s Cheltenham Gold Cup (just beaten for fifth by L’Homme Presse), but in 20 races has never fallen and often performs with credit against talented rivals. Stamina could be an issue and hard to envisage him out-foxing these rivals.

9. Monty’s Star

9yo bay gelding by Walk In The Park

Weight: 11st 3lb

Trainer: Henry de Bromhead

Owner: Barry Maloney

Jockey: Darragh O’Keeffe

Form: 4-3056

Likeable type who pays his way by reaching the frame in races, although he has not won for nearly two and a half years. Well beaten in Newbury’s Coral Gold Cup won by Panic Attack in November and outclassed in two Grade One races since, but should be competitive in this handicap, particularly if the ground turns soft. His astute trainer saddled the first and second in this race in 2021.

10. Spanish Harlem

8yo chestnut gelding by Spanish Moon

Weight: 11st 3lb

Trainer: Willie Mullins

Owner: Dr S Fitzgerald

Jockey: Brian Hayes

Form: -11PUP

An interesting contender from a yard chock-full of talent, although two of his three most recent runs have been disappointing. However, in the middle of two pulled-up efforts he looked set to land January’s Thyestes Chase at Gowran Park, only to unseat his young jockey at the final fence when in front. Rewind to September and he won the Kerry National (Three Card Brag second), just reward for some solid performances.

11. Lecky Watson

8yo chestnut gelding

by Valirann

Weight: 11st 2lb

Trainer: Willie Mullins

Owner: Slaneyville Syndicate

Jockey: Sean O’Keefe

Form: -F77P8

One of nine possible arrows for trainer Willie Mullins to fire at the National, but on recent form this one is unlikely to hit the bullseye. You would not have said that at the end of last season when he surfed a wave of success that included victory at the Cheltenham Festival, but since then results have been poor. Heavy winter ground may have been against him, and a drier surface could help.

12. Champ Kiely

10yo bay gelding by Ocovango

Weight: 11st 1lb

Trainer: Willie Mullins

Owner: Margaret Masterson

Jockey: Danny Mullins

Form: 12S57

It’s hard to envisage this one becoming champ on Saturday given doubts over his stamina plus heavy defeats in his two most recent races, albeit he was facing some of the cream of Ireland’s talent. Attempts at races over three miles have been inconclusive (slipped up in one race and then outgunned in Irish Gold Cup) and his best run this season was over two miles. The National is more than twice that distance.

13. Iroko

8yo bay gelding by Cokoriko

Weight: 11st 1lb

Trainers: Oliver Greenall & Josh Guerriero

Owner: JP McManus

Jockey: Jonjo O’Neill Jr

Form: 24-210

This AQPS-bred (not pure thoroughbred) gelding was fourth last year, finishing well from off the pace and suggesting he should be better equipped this time. Two fine runs before Christmas showed his wellbeing, and while well beaten at Cheltenham recently he subsequently produced a mucky tracheal wash (in short he was below par). If it’s cleared up he heads to Aintree with a fine chance.

14. Favori De Champdou

11yo bay gelding by Saddler Maker

Weight: 11st 1lb

Trainer: Gordon Elliott

Owner: Gigginstown House Stud

Jockey: Danny Gilligan

Form: 05F112

Taking the Tiger Roll route to the National, this horse has been running in cross-country races this season and has proved his talent. In-between three races around Cheltenham’s obstacle course (runner-up at the Festival) he beat 27 rivals in a handicap chase at Leopardstown over Christmas, so he jumps well and can cope with hurly-burly. On recent trends his age is against him (four 11-year-old winners this century), but he’s not dismissed.

15. Three Card Brag

9yo bay gelding by Jet Away

Weight: 11st

Trainer: Gordon Elliott

Owners: McNeill Family, Patrick & Scott Bryceland

Jockey: Jordan Gainford

Form: -82127

Ran close to the pace for a long way in last year’s National, although stamina began evaporating before the home turn and he finished 11th. Excellent efforts in shorter races since means he now carries another 9lb on his back. A win at Cheltenham in October was followed by second place in Newbury’s Coral Gold Cup behind Panic Attack but he needs a hand of aces on Saturday.

16. Oscars Brother

8yo bay gelding by Malinas

Weight: 10st 13lb

Trainer: Connor King

Owner: JP McManus

Jockey: Daniel King

Form: 221114

In terms of horsepower this runner represents a huge owner and a tiny trainer, for former apprentice jockey Connor King has just two racehorses in his Tipperary yard. This one was bought by JP McManus in November following a win at Punchestown and he soon added another victory at Navan. Recent fourth at Cheltenham Festival was a top effort when he might have preferred softer ground. Still a novice, but classy and progressive.

17. Mr Vango

10yo bay gelding by Ocovango

Weight: 10st 12lb

Trainer: Sara Bradstock

Owner: Cracker & Smodge Partnership

Jockey: Jack Tudor

Form: 11-2PP

A triple “National” winner, albeit the Devon, London and Midlands versions do not carry the kudos or prize money associated with the Aintree edition. But this big horse has lots of stamina and the ability to handle mud – if the ground dries out he may be withdrawn. Excellent second over Aintree’s National fences in December’s Becher Chase, but two curiously poor runs since temper enthusiasm.

18. High Class Hero

9yo chestnut gelding by Sulamani

Weight: 10st 11lb

Trainer: Willie Mullins

Owners: Sullivan Group, P Crowley & Neill Hughes

Jockey: James Bowen

Form: 23-2PP

Third in last season’s Gold Cup at Sandown, his debut in a handicap chase, implied this horse could run a big race in a Grand National. That looked no less likely when second at Punchestown in November, but two lacklustre performances since raise questions. Trained by a genius with a transformative touch, but this horse will need that to become an Aintree hero.

19. Stellar Story

9yo bay gelding by Shantou

Weight: 10st 11lb

Trainer: Gordon Elliott

Owner: Gigginstown House Stud

Jockey: Robert Dunne

Form: 2-3383

Created his own story when beating Harry Redknapp’s The Jukebox Man to land the Cheltenham Festival Albert Bartlett Hurdle two years ago, and has since become a consistent performer. Just one win but often in the money. Ran a fine National trial when third to Grangeclare West in February’s Bobbyjo Chase. Now weighted to reverse the placings with the winner and looks a sound each-way bet here.

20. Beauport

10yo bay gelding by Califet

Weight: 10st 11lb

Trainer: Willy & Nigel Twiston-Davies

Owners: Bryan & Philippa Burrough

Jockey: Sam Twiston-Davies

Form: 20-4P4

Ran well for a long way last year, albeit a little keen, before running out of puff in the home straight and finishing 12th, more than 60 lengths behind the winner. Had won a race of similar length at Uttoxeter a year earlier, so we know he has the stamina. Now carries 3lb less, and if more relaxed on his second National attempt he could be closer at the finish.

21. Captain Cody

8yo bay gelding by Arctic Cosmos

Weight: 10st 10lb

Trainer: Willie Mullins

Owners: Vincent Caldwell, Angela Shamoon & A Shamoon Ibgi

Jockey: Jonathan Burke

Form: 1-37F5

An interesting contender: the right age, a handy weight and from the number one stable. Won last season’s Scottish National and has thrown some good shapes this year. Well beaten when fifth in the Bobbyjo Chase behind four horses who he’ll face again on Saturday, but wasn’t given a hard race once his chance had gone and a final fence error made the defeat heavier.

22. Jagwar

7yo bay gelding by Karaktar

Weight: 10st 10lb

Trainers: Oliver Greenall & Josh Guerriero

Owner: JP McManus

Jockey: Mark Walsh

Form: 11-322

This big young horse might start favourite, for he has developed a Grand National profile with a series of good races. Yet to try a marathon, but stepped up to three miles at Cheltenham last month and ran a cracking race when second of 22 runners. Had won a shorter race at the meeting last year. Favourable weight on his back, locally trained, and if coping with the unique fences should give a good account.

23. Perceval Legallois

9yo bay gelding by Ballingarry

Weight: 10st 9lb

Trainer: Gavin Cromwell

Owner: JP McManus

Jockey: Harry Cobden

Form: 11F-P4

After two good victories this horse arrived at Aintree 12 months’ ago with a right chance… only to fall at the ninth. He has run below par twice since then, pulling up in Newbury’s Coral Gold Cup (which was won by Panic Attack) and was subsequently a well-beaten fourth at Tramore in January. His canny trainer could have him back on track, but he started 10/1 for last year’s race and will be a much bigger price this time.

24. Gorgeous Tom

8yo bay gelding by Champs Elysees

Weight: 10st 9lb

Trainer: Henry de Bromhead

Owner: Envirogreen Housing Services

Jockey: Sean Flanagan

Form: 4-4245

Should be a popular selection with Toms, and looks promising. This horse ran a very good, if not gorgeous, race when fourth to Panic Attack in Newbury’s Coral Gold Cup when conceding 15lb to the mare – he now has to carry just 4lb more. Warmed up for Saturday when finishing fifth of 16 at Leopardstown last month, and while his stamina is unknown his dam was a half-sister to National runner-up Cappa Bleu.

25. The Real Whacker

10yo bay gelding by Mahler

Weight: 10st 9lb

Trainer: Pat Neville

Owners: Neville, Mann, Duffus, Dennis-Price

Jockey: Gavin Sheehan

Form: 54-256

This former Cheltenham Festival winner (in a Grade One race) has been mixing it with the best for some time, and was fourth to subsequent Gold Cup winner Gaelic Warrior over Aintree’s Mildmay Course a year ago. This season has been geared around the National, so a mix of hurdle and chase starts. Nicely weighted on his best form, has a touch of class and could out-run what are likely to be big odds.

26. Quai De Bourbon

7yo bay gelding by Ivanhowe

Weight: 10st 9lb

Trainer: Willie Mullins

Owner: Gigginstown House Stud

Jockey: Donagh Meyler

Form: B3-PP3

Twelve months ago was out of luck at Cheltenham (unseated rider) and Aintree (brought down) in Grade One novice chases, but then ran a big race when third (beaten nearly 10 lengths) to Haiti Couleurs in the Irish National. Conceded 7lb to the winner on that occasion, but now receives 15lb so weighted to reverse the placings. The National defies the laws of racing and handicapping, but this horse is not ruled out completely.

27. Answer To Kayf

10yo bay gelding by Kayf Tara

Weight: 10st 8lb

Trainer: Terence O’Brien

Owner: Denis O’Connor

Jockey: John Shinnick

Form: 0-6144

Comes from a relatively small yard in Cork, but ran a big race when fourth to Grangeclare West in February’s Bobbyjo Chase, a classic trial for Aintree. Now receiving 16lb from the winner and weighted to get very close if not beat him, assuming he handles quicker ground and the National fences. Has completed all his 17 races to date, and for some he could be the answer to Aintree’s annual April puzzle.

28. Jordans

7yo black gelding by Coastal Path

Weight: 10st 8lb

Trainer: Joseph O’Brien

Owner: Cheeky Pups Syndicate

Jockey: Ben Jones

Form: 2-85P0

Is there nothing Kilkenny-based Joseph O’Brien can’t do? Dual Derby-winning and champion jockey before turning to training and saddling 1,000 winners in six seasons, he has landed big races worldwide, including two Melbourne Cups. Now the greatest test of his skills, the Grand National. His representative on Saturday not an obvious winner and stamina yet to be proved, but only seven and has bits of form which suggest he is not without hope.

29. Final Orders

10yo bay gelding by Camelot

Weight: 10st 5lb

Trainer: Gavin Cromwell

Owner: C M D Syndicate

Jockey: Conor Stone-Walsh

Form: P63151

This horse has become a talented obstacle-course performer this season, running a fine race when third over Punchestown’s banks course in November and then gaining two wins from three runs around Cheltenham’s cross-country course. Showed his current wellbeing when convincing winner at last month’s Festival, has fallen just once in 51 jumps races and not short of stamina. His backers will be staying for final orders at the bar if he wins on Saturday.

30. Marble Sands

10yo grey gelding by Martaline

Weight: 10st 5lb

Trainers: David Killahena & Graeme McPherson

Owners: D & J Adams & G McPherson

Jockey: Kielan Woods

Form: 250-12

Few horses have run on the Flat at Goodwood and tackled the Grand National in the same season. This horse is set to do that after finishing second in a novelty jump jockeys’ race at the Sussex course in October. He jumped round the National fences when unplaced in the Topham Chase, scored at Cheltenham in November and ran a fine race at Wetherby.

31. Panic Attack

10yo bay mare by Canford Cliffs

Weight: 10st 5lb

Trainer: Dan Skelton

Owner: Bryan Drew

Jockey: Harry Skelton

Form: 2-1113

This could be the horse to button up Dan Skelton’s bid to land the trainer’s championship for the first time. While many mares of her age are several babies down and being lined up for their next stallion, she is proving a very progressive chaser with convincing November wins at Cheltenham and Newbury in prestigious races. Good third at last month’s Festival, light weight on her back, might give the bookies a panic attack.

32. Top Of The Bill

10yo bay gelding by Fame And Glory

Weight: 10st 5lb

Trainers: Nigel & Willy Twiston-Davies

Owner: Charles Walker

Jockey: Toby McCain-Mitchell

Form: P1-192

Won the West Wales National at Ffos Las just over a year ago, and has progressed again this season, topping the bill in a handicap chase at Haydock in November and running a particularly good race at that track three months later. Comes from a yard that has sent out two National winners and the jockey has a fine Aintree heritage – his grandfather, Ginger McCain, trained the legendary Red Rum.

33. Johnnywho

9yo brown gelding by Califet

Weight: 10st 4lb

Trainers: Jonjo & A J O’Neill

Owner: JP McManus

Jockey: Richie McLernon

Form: 5-5351

Won a chase at Carlisle in October 2024, then over 18 months he put together a string of placed efforts – often meeting talented rivals – without winning. All that changed in grand style when, after an operation to improve his wind (breathing), he beat Jagwar no less at last month’s Cheltenham Festival. We will all know who Johnny is if winning the National, and it would cap a long and dedicated career for his 39-year-old jockey.

34. Twig

11yo bay gelding by Sulamani

Weight: 10st 4lb

Trainer: Ben Pauling

Owner: Georgia Morgan

Jockey: Beau Morgan

Form: 70-117

This former point-to-pointer gave his young jockey – whose mother owns the horse – a memorable first Grand National ride last year when jumping round and finishing tenth. The experience did the partnership no harm, for they won a chase at Sandown in November and then landed Aintree’s Becher Chase over the National fences in December. The National is a notch above, and at the age of 11 it is hard to see Twig winning.

36. Imperial Saint

8yo bay gelding by Saint Des Saints

Weight: 10st 2lb

Trainers: Philip Hobbs & Johnson White

Owner: Richard Johnson Racing Imperial Saint

Jockey: Callum Pritchard

Form: 2-5618

If Imperial Saint runs he will carry the colours of a group of owners set up by former outstanding jump jockey and four-time champion Dicky Johnson. He bought the horse for £40,000 as a five-year-old and has been rewarded with six wins and five places. Smart victory at Haydock in January, has finished all his 19 races, but well behind Johnnywho at Cheltenham last month.

37. Amirite

10yo bay gelding by Sholokhov

Weight: 10st 2lb

Trainer: Henry de Bromhead

Owner: Patrick Hale

Jockey: TBC

Form: 4-P140P

A game win at Kilbeggan in July was followed by a sound effort when fourth in the famous Galway Plate, but Amirite was subsequently well behind in a cross-country race and then pulled up over hurdles last month. He was fourth in last year’s Topham Chase over the National fences and he performs well without winning, and I believe I’m right in concluding it might be the same if he gets a run on Saturday.

Grand National reserve runners

38. Ain’t That A Shame

12yo bay gelding by Jeremy

Weight: 10st 2lb

Trainer: Tom Ellis

Owner: Eventmasters Racing

Jockey: Jack Andrews

Form: 9P16/F

Provided his then owner/rider David Maxwell with a memorable Grand National experience with sixth in the 2024 race won by I Am Maximus. When Maxwell retired and dispersed his horses at auction last year this one was bought for £40,000 and joined Tom Ellis. Just one run since when falling at Kelso’s final fence in February. Given his age and light preparation he seems up against it if getting a run.

39. Deep Cave

8yo bright bay gelding by Court Cave

Weight: 9st 13lb

Trainer: Christian Williams

Owner: Sue Howell

Jockey: TBC

Form: 1-1150

40. Buddy One

9yo bay gelding by Sans Frontieres

Weight: 9st 12lb

Trainer: Paul John Gilligan

Owner: E Lynch & T C Quinn & John J McGrath

Jockey: TBC

Form: -66P40

Grand National withdrawals

2. Nick Rockett – withdrawn on Thursday 9 April due to a cough

9yo bay gelding by Walk In The Park

Weight: 11st 11lb

Trainer: Willie Mullins

Owners: Stewart & Sadie Andrew

Jockey: Tom Bellamy

Form: 4111-3

The winner last year when enjoying a trouble-free lead-up to the race before scoring in some style. Had a few niggly issues this season and has therefore run just once, but it was a pleasing effort when third at Down Royal behind Gerri Colombe, who is also in Saturday’s line-up. Still only nine and probably at or near his peak, but back-to-back winners of this race are rare, and he carries 3lb more this time.

35. Pied Piper

8yo chestnut gelding by New Approach

Weight: 10st 3lb

Trainer: Gordon Elliott

Owners: Mrs M Roden & Mrs R Nolan

Jockey: TBC

Form: 2569FF

Bred by The late Queen, this horse was a capable Flat racer who became a high-class novice hurdler and reached the places in three visits to the Cheltenham Festival. When, two years ago, his owners at that time had a clear-out sale he changed hands for €570,000 and soon won three novice chases, but it’s been lean pickings since, and falls in his two most recent races are worrying. Seems unlikely to call the tune.

7. Spillane’s Tower

8yo bay gelding by Walk In The Park

Weight: 11st 8lb

Trainer: Jimmy Mangan

Owner: JP McManus

Jockey: Simon Torrens

Form: 5-2931

Trained by the youthful Jimmy Mangan, 70, who is based in Co Cork and who 23 years ago saddled Monty’s Pass to win the National under Barry Geraghty. In this horse he has another grand candidate who is the right age, has never fallen and showed his wellbeing with a Cheltenham victory in January (L’Homme Presse second). Soft ground would help Spillane Tower’s cause – was withdrawn from the Gold Cup due to drying ground.

• To stay up to date with all the breaking news from major events throughout the year, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

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Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Get your friends, family or colleagues involved in the excitement weekend with our Grand National sweepstake kit.

The 2026 Randox Grand National will take place at Aintree Racecourse at 4pm this Saturday (11 April 2026), and running a sweepstake is a great way to get everyone involved in the build up.

Download Horse & Hound’s free Grand National Sweepstake kit (PDF)

How to use the Grand National sweepstake kit

1. Round up your participants. Ideally you want 34 people – so that you get one horse each – but it’s possible to make smaller numbers work if participants are willing to take more than one horse.

2. Decide how much it will cost to enter your sweepstake. If, for example, you charge each participants £2 per horse, your prize pot will be £68 in total, which you could then spilt as £40 to the winner, £15 to the person in second and £8 to the person in third, and £5 to the owner of the last horse to finish, which keeps more people involved right until the end. You can split it however you like, but make sure you agree how the winnings will be split before you invite people to take part to avoid any confusion later.

3. Print the PDF download. Cut out the runners and put numbers 1–34 into a hat for participants to randomly select from. Once they’ve picked, write their name at the top of the print out so that you can keep track of who has picked which horse.

4. If a horse withdraws after you’ve done your selections, you can swap them directly with their replacement from the reserves (numbers R35–40). You can check current runners and withdrawals on our list of Grand National runners, which also includes a form guide so your participants can learn more about their horse’s chances.

5. Make sure you’ve sold all your horses – if you have any left, see if anyone is keen to enter a second or third time. Do not offer them a discounted rate as this will affect your prize pot.

Enjoy and good luck – and make sure you’re watching the Grand National at 4pm on Saturday!

• To stay up to date with all the breaking news from major events throughout the year, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

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How to watch the Grand National 2026 live from anywhere in the world

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A bluffer’s guide to reading a racecard

Celebrating Tiger Roll, the little horse with the biggest heart who became a national treasure

‘I’ve watched it 1000 times; I just wish he’d win it once’ – Dick Francis’s son Felix on the collapse of Devon Loch in the 1956 Grand National

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Latenightpass, the family horse “in every sense” who made dreams come true, has retired sound and happy aged 13 following a final spin at the Cheltenham Festival.

The gelding, known at home as Bobby, was bred and owned by Pippa Ellis, trained by her son, Tom, and ridden predominantly by her daughter-in-law, record-breaking amateur jockey Gina Andrews.

His 2022 Aintree Foxhunters win was the crowning moment in his lengthy racing career. Two years later, he gave Gina her first spin in the Randox Grand National itself, cruising up among the leaders to the final fence and finishing 12th.

In total, he jumped 120 fences on the Grand National course during his six starts in various races at Aintree, ran at the Cheltenham Festival three times, and won 13 of his 38 races.

“The horse of a lifetime. Bob has run his final race and what a story he’s given us,” said Tom.

“A true family horse in every sense. A career defined by courage and consistency. 120 fences jumped on the Grand National course. A Randox Foxhunters’ Chase and a Glenfarclas Crystal Cup Cross Country Chase [at Cheltenham]. Toughness personified.

“Thank you Bob, for the memories and all at Heath Barn who have been part of your story.”

After success pointing and hunter chasing, Latenightpass spent time with Dan Skelton in the 2023/24 season to run under Rules. His cross-country win at Cheltenham in December opened up the possibility of contending the Grand National that season, so champion point-to-point handler Tom then brought forward plans to take out a professional training licence to saddle the little horse in the world’s most famous race.

“If he were human, he would be very eccentric, quite hyperactive, very happy to be out and would want to say ‘hi’ to everyone. He is just a lovely person. My niece is six years old and she can lead him round the yard after he has schooled, he’s a legend,” said Tom at the time.

Gina rode him in 35 of his races, her sister Bridget won a hunter chase on him at Warwick and finished fourth in the 2021 Foxhunter Chase at Cheltenham during Covid rules and their brother Jack also rode him in the Topham Chase at Aintree last year.

Gina said Latenightpass trained for eight consecutive seasons “without a single lame step”.

“He gave me the best day of my career winning the Aintree Foxhunters’. Made my dreams come true in the Grand National itself. Never failed to complete around Aintree or Cheltenham and only twice came home without me,” she said.

“No words will ever describe what this horse has done for me in my career. A truly special horse. He gave me moments I will cherish for ever. Retired most importantly safe and sound. Thank you Pippa Ellis for breeding him. Thank you my husband Tom for training him so perfectly. Most importantly thank you Bob.”

Latenightpass finished fifth in his final race, the Glenfarclas Cross Country Chase (11 March) at the 2026 Cheltenham Festival.

From the archives: ’A dream come true’

An extract from H&H’s interview with Gina Andrews in summer 2022, following her Foxhunters’ win with Latenightpass…

“The highlight of this season has been the highlight of my entire career, and that was Latenightpass winning the Foxhunters’ at Aintree. That was a dream come true. I used to think I’d rather win at the Cheltenham Festival,” says Gina, who rode Domesday Book to victory in the 2017 Kim Muir.

“But Dad always said to me, ‘Riding a winner at Aintree is better than Cheltenham’. I always thought that’s because he hadn’t ridden a winner at the Cheltenham Festival, and I had.

“If I’d had a Cheltenham Festival win on Latenightpass or one of our own horses, maybe it would have been even more special, but I think the fact that my mother-in-law bred him and we’ve trained him at home, it was just such a family affair.”

Family is the golden thread that weaves through both the horses and humans’ lives at Heath Barn. Gina’s dad, Simon Andrews, won the 1988 Foxhunters’ on Newnham, and Latenightpass was the result of falling into breeding almost “by accident”.

His dam, Latenightdip, won three times with Tom in the saddle. In 2011, she sustained a career-ending injury, so the family decided to put her in foal to Passing Glance. The result was Bobby.

“He’s hilarious – he is very vocal and he likes to go out first. He shouts until he is ridden in the morning,” says Gina, adding that he has a particularly special relationship with Kim Hopley, who does everything with him.

“We keep saying, ‘When did he get so good?’ because he took ages to win a maiden. I think when you’ve bred them, you just sort of don’t let yourself believe that they are going to be as good as he is.”

Bobby was more a Harry Kane – famously released from Arsenal for lack of height and pace – than a youth academy star; and it took six attempts before he finally crossed the line in front.

“Once he started winning, he got his confidence up and he’s turned out to be such a good little horse. I say little, because he is – there isn’t a lot of him. I rode him out the morning of the Foxhunters’ and managed to get an interview on ITV with Luke Harvey, he nearly got me off in the process – he was absolutely wild. I had a good feeling from then on,” said Gina.

“I walked the course quietly with my best friend Charity, she came with me the first year I ever rode there. The race itself just all went to plan. I like to have a bit of daylight on him as he is only little, so you wouldn’t want to get bumped by anything bigger. As soon as we got to the Melling Road, I thought ‘I’m probably going to win now’. It was so surreal. You spend your whole career dreaming of winning a race like that. I don’t think it’s even sunk in now, really.

“An hour after the race I couldn’t even remember my interview with Alice Plunkett on TV. I had no idea what I’d said as there were just so many emotions.”

• To stay up to date with all the breaking news from major shows throughout the year, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

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If you’re planning a trip to Aintree Racecourse, here’s complete guide on how to get there so that you can make your journey as stress-free as possible.

Where is Aintree?

Aintree Racecourse is situated in the Metropolitan Borough of Sefton, Merseyside, bordering the city of Liverpool. The best postcode for sat navs is L9 5AS.

How to get to Aintree Racecourse by train

The best, and easiest, way to reach the racecourse is normally by train to Aintree Station, which is directly opposite the racecourse – less than a five-minute walk.

Merseyrail trains run between Liverpool Central and Aintree Station every 15 minutes on standard racedays. There are more frequent services (every 7.5 mins) running for the Grand National Festival between 11:00–13:00 (before the races) and 16:30–20:30 (after the races).

How to get to Aintree Racecourse by car

If you’re attending for the races, follow the instructions below and you’ll pick up the signs for the races. If you’re attending for a conference or an event, the main entrance to the racecourse via Grand National Avenue is just off Ormskirk Road (A59) – use L9 5AS for sat navs.

From the south, leave the M6 at Junction 21A and join M62 west. Leave M62 at J6 to join M57 — follow signs for races.

From the north, leave M6 at J26 and join M58 — follow signs for races.

From the Mersey Tunnels, follow signs for Preston, then for A59 and then signs for races.

Where to park

There is free car parking available at Aintree on non-Grand National meetings – follow the signs for the spectator parking at West Tip.

Car parking is limited for the Grand National Festival and must be purchased in advance at thejockeyclub.co.uk – you may have already added this on when purchasing Grand National tickets.

How to get to Aintree Racecourse by bus

The racecourse can be reached by bus on services 300, 310 and 345 — both to and from Queen’s Square Bus Station in Liverpool.

How to get to Aintree Racecourse by coach

National Express are providing coach travel directly to the racecourse on Grand National day (Saturday 11 April, 2026) from the following locations:

• Birmingham
• Blackpool
• Bradford
• Chesterfield
• Dudley
• Leeds
• Manchester
• Nottingham
• Preston
• Sheffield
• Stoke-on-Trent

For more information, visit nationalexpress.com

How to get to Aintree Racecourse by air

Liverpool John Lennon Airport is the nearest airport to the racecourse and is a 20 minute drive away.

Manchester Airport is approximately a 45 minute drive.

When to arrive at Aintree Racecourse

While you may be eager to avoid traffic, you will not be able to access the racecourse until the gates open, which is usually a couple of hours before the first race. Check Aintree’s official website for details specific to your race meeting.

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The Grand National fences: we take you around the course

Ahead of this weekend’s Randox Health Grand National (5.15pm on Saturday 10 April 2021), we thought we would give you

What to wear to the races – all occasions covered

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We’ve put together a list of hotels near Aintree Racecourse, including nearby guesthouses and B&Bs at a range of price points to help you make the most of your visit – and make it easier to get to Aintree on the day.

Aintree Racecourse hosts a number of racedays and meetings throughout the year and is home to the world-famous Grand National. If you’ve not got your Grand National tickets yet, you can get them at thejockeyclub.co.uk

Accommodation is likely to fill up quickly with racing fans travelling from across the country, so we suggest booking as soon as possible once you’ve found somewhere. These hotels near Aintree Racecourse are listed in order of distance from the venue (L9 5AS).

Accomodation near Aintree Racecourse by type

• Hotels near Aintree Racecourse
• Guest houses, inns and B&Bs near Aintree Racecourse
• Holiday lets and apartments near Aintree Racecourse

Hotels near Aintree Racecourse

Guesthouses, inns and B&Bs near Aintree Racecourse

Holiday lets and apartments near Aintree Racecourse

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If you want to be witness to the race “the world stops to watch”, you need to sort your Grand National tickets sooner rather than later as many enclosures are already sold out for Grand National Day (Saturday 11 April).

We’ve rounded up all your ticket options for whole The Randox Grand National Festival and given a brief description of the views and access areas to help you decide which is the right option for you. If you opt for an area with reserved seating, it’s best to book at the same time as your party to avoid being sat apart. Some enclosures are limited to six tickets per buyer, while others offer group discounts, depending on the nature of the area.

Grand National tickets

There are lots of ticket options for the Grand National and the price varies with each enclosure depending on their access to different areas of Aintree Racecourse. I’ve listed the options below in ascending order of starting price. The starting prices are usually correct for the Opening Day of the festival (Thursday 9 April), and these increase for Ladies’ Day (Friday 10 April) and again for Grand National Day (Saturday 11 April).

When choosing your enclosure, aside from price, consider what your priorities are on the day – do you want easy access to the parade ring, a view of the finish, a reserved covered seat or do you want to soak in the atmosphere and enjoy a range of live entertainment?

Festival Zone

Although you won’t have full access to the racecourse with this ticket, you will be able to enjoy live music and entertainment, plenty of food and drink options, and the opportunity to see horses around the Aintree parade ring.

Buy tickets from £33.50

The Embankment

The Embankment offers a view of the first fences of the Grand National course, plus access to bars and catering facilities, big screen viewing, live entertainment, betting facilities and unreserved seating.

There is no access to the parade ring side of the racecourse with these tickets and they are only available on Grand National day. Embankment tickets can be purchased at a discounted rate for groups of 10 or more.

Buy tickets from £44.10

Earl of Derby Terrace

This enclosure is located with views over the parade ring, winners’ enclosure and the course, with access to live entertainment in both the Red Rum Garden and Aintree Pavilion. You’ll also have easy access to Tote betting facilities and big screens.

Buy tickets from £59

Lord Sefton Terrace

This enclosure offers views over the parade ring, winners’ enclosure and the course. The outdoor terrace area next to the horsewalk and you’ll be in close proximity to the wash-down area and have trackside viewing. You can also access to live entertainment in the Red Rum Garden and Aintree Pavilion.

Buy tickets from £59

West Tip seats

These seats are located alongside the home straight and close to the final fences on the course. You will have access to a reserved, covered seat, private bar and toilets, as well the facilities in Festival Zone, which includes the Rum & Ginger bar, betting facilities and big screens.

Buy tickets from £63

Lord Daresbury Roof

For a birds-eye view directly above the finishing post, with a vantage point over the course, this area offers an outdoor balcony area, access to the parade ring and winners’ enclosure, and live entertainment in the Red Rum Garden and Aintree Pavilion.

Buy tickets from £69

Princess Royal Roof

This standing area is partially covered and has a dedicated bar in the Tommy Wallis Suite, which has a view of the final closing moments of every race. There is also viewing access to the parade ring and winners’ enclosure. You’ll have access to live music in the Aintree Pavilion throughout the day, with an act after the racing.

Buy tickets from £69

Garden Club

The Garden Club offers a unique experience in a private first floor bar with views of the parade ring – it is not course facing. There is live entertainment, betting facilities and big screen viewing. Garden Club ticket holders also have access to the Festival Zone.

Buy tickets from £91

Queen Mother Roof

These partially covered seats give you a direct view of the finishing post and a great view of the course. It is well located for the parade ring and winners’ enclosure, with access to live entertainment in both the Red Rum Garden and Aintree Pavilion. This enclosure has a dedicated bar, and your ticket includes a complimentary racecard voucher and street food voucher.

Buy tickets from £102

Earl of Derby lower seats

Here you will receive a dedicated seat within an uncovered area with views over the parade ring, winners’ enclosure and the course.

Buy tickets from £104

Earl of Derby upper seats

With this ticket you’ll get a dedicated seat in an uncovered area with access to the Upper Saddle Bar. It’s the highest vantage point you can view the racing from. You’ll also have viewing access of the Parade Ring and Winners’ Enclosure, plus access to the Red Rum Garden and Aintree Pavilion.

Buy tickets from £104

Lord Sefton upper and lower seats

These tickets give you a dedicated seat in an outdoor area next to the horsewalk and in close proximity to the wash down area and the course. You’ll also have access to the partially covered private Saddle Bar, which overlooks the parade ring and winners’ enclosure, and access to the Red Rum Garden and Aintree Pavilion.

Buy tickets from £104

Queen Mother Seats

Here you will be well-located for a direct view of the finishing post with excellent vantage points over the course. You’ll be able to enjoy a dedicated bar in an uncovered area with access to the parade ring, winners’ enclosure and live music in the Aintree Pavilion throughout the day. Your ticket includes a complimentary racecard voucher and street food voucher.

Buy tickets from £115

Princess Royal seats and gallery

In this over-21s area, you will get a reserved seat with good views of the course. You will be close to the finishing post and have access of the parade ring, winners’ enclosure and the Red Rum Garden.

Buy tickets from £140

Platinum Lounge seats

These covered seats offer a birds-eye view directly above the finishing post. You’ll have exclusive access to the private bar, dedicated betting and toilet facilities, and access to the parade ring, winners’ enclosure, Red Rum Garden and Aintree Pavilion. This ticket also includes complimentary race card.

Buy tickets from £140

Grand National hospitality tickets

There are a range of hospitality experiences on offer, ranging from restaurant packages to private boxes. These vary in price depending upon race day and the size of your party, but they start at £385 per person and include an admission ticket and food and drink refreshments throughout the day. They also include a complimentary racecard, and usually a number of car passes dependent on your party size.

For more information about hospitality options, visit thejockeyclub.co.uk

• To stay up to date with all the breaking news from major events throughout the year, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

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What to wear to the races – all occasions covered

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Heading to Aintree? Find hotels, B&Bs and holiday lets near the racecourse

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A “bargain buy” racehorse who cost just £100 gave 20-year-old jump jockey Beau Morgan the biggest win of his career at Aintree racecourse on Saturday (6 December).

The conditional jockey and Twig had been embroiled in an epic tussle with 9/2 favourite Mr Vango (Jack Tudor) up the run-in for the 3¾-mile William Hill Half A Mill Becher Handicap Chase over the Grand National fences and Beau had his fingers firmly crossed as he waited for judges to reveal the outcome of the photo finish.

“Twig is one of those horses that if you hit the front too soon, he will slam on the brakes,” explained Beau, who also had to survive a “nerve-racking” stewards’ enquiry before the final result was announced. “He dug deep today and I owe everything to him.”

Beau Morgan and Twig provide family with an emotional success

Twig is trained by Ben Pauling, assisted by Beau’s brother Luca Morgan and owned by their mother Georgia, who was stuck at home with a broken leg. But their father Arron called his son’s success a “dream come true”.

“To see Beau come across the line was emotional,” he said. “I turned away thinking, ‘Is this true?’ I’m so proud of the boys.”

Ben Pauling described Twig as “an absolute hero of a horse” for the Morgans, but he had an inauspicious start to his racing career. He was “lapped” in his first two races for his previous owner-breeders and was bought by the Morgans for £100 five years ago for Beau to go point-to-pointing on.

The pair won seven times before returning under Rules, finishing 10th in this year’s Grand National, and this success at Aintree came off the back of a win in the veterans’ chase at Sandown last month.

“He has run a blinder,” said Ben Pauling. “Beau has given him a lovely ride. He has jumped for fun and got lonely in front.”

Mr Vango is Grand National-bound

Although Twig won’t be aimed at another Grand National, it’s all systems go for runner-up Mr Vango, as long as the going is on the soft side in April.

“He loved the fences,” said trainer Sara Bradstock. “He is quite bright as he worked out quickly that he didn’t have to jump them too big. He is a big, slow old horse with an engine and attitude. Give us another furlong and we win it. He is a real old hero.”

You can read the full report from Aintree and Il Etait Temps’ epic success in the Betfair Tingle Creek in this week’s Horse & Hound, in shops Thursday, 11 December..

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The 2025 Randox Grand National winner Nick Rockett stands barely 16hh, but he’s as “brave as a lion” said jockey Patrick Mullins in the aftermath of their victory in the world famous race on Saturday, 5 April at huge odds of 33/1.

We wanted to find out more about the gallant little Aintree hero, who is trained by Patrick’s father Willie Mullins, so we spoke to his devoted groom Katie Walton about her beloved “Nickers”, as the eight-year-old is known at home.

She tells H&H about some of the charismatic gelding’s “bizarre” habits and the remarkable story leading up to that historic day when Nick Rockett became a true Grand National legend.

Grand National winner Nick Rockett: “A huge personality” with some “bizarre” habits

Nick Rockett’s groom Katie Walton has been part of the all-conquering Willie Mullins team at Closutton, Co. Carlow, for the past five years and she is now one of the head lads on the 200-horse training establishment. She has looked after Nick Rockett – AKA “Nickers” – since he came to the yard three years ago.

“When he first arrived, he was only around 15hh, he was like a big greyhound,” says Katie. “He did do a lot of growing over the summer – upwards, not outwards because he’s still very slim and petite. He’s around 16hh now. He came in with the name Nickers – I don’t know who gave it to him, but that’s how everyone knows him now.

“He’s an absolute pleasure to deal with, there’s never a peep out of him. He makes my life and my job so easy and he’s not a hassle at all. He tends to randomly stare up to the ceiling and I say he’s talking to ghosts or he sees something that we don’t, because his mouth will be moving as well. It’s bizarre. And if there’s music in the yard, he’ll bop away with his head. He’s such a character, a really big personality.

“We know when he’s in good form at home because I’ll fall off him!” she continues. “He’s quick, sharp and loves to whip round. But he’s an absolute pleasure to ride really – you squeeze, he goes, very simple. Although I make it look like I’m being run away with sometimes, otherwise the other riders will try to take him off me!”

Aintree Grand National day: “He was on his toes”

Nick Rockett started the year in flying form, winning the Thyestes and Bobbyjo chases, with Willie Mullins’ stable jockey Paul Townend riding. Paul chose to ride last year’s Grand National winner I Am Maximus at Aintree, however.

“In the run-up to the race, I kept telling everyone Nick Rockett was going to win, but I think that was more me manifesting than anything else,” says Katie.

“On the morning of the Grand National, we fed him and his jockey Patrick Mullins came and rode him out, then there are all the videos on social media of him having a good roll afterwards [pictured below]. Paddy said he was really keen and he felt in flying form.”

The son of Walk In The Park was “on his toes” by the time he and the 33 other Grand National runners were in the parade ring.

Katie says: “As he was being saddled, I said to his owner, Stewart Andrew, ‘I just want him to come home safe’ and Stewart said, ‘Katie, he doesn’t owe us anything – he deserves his place to run in the race’. Nick Rockett winning the Thyestes [Grade Three chase at Gowran Park in January] was obviously a really big moment for his owner and for his beloved wife, who sadly passed away.

“When Patrick got up on him, I said he’s in flying form – I really think he’s in with a chance,” says Katie.

“I couldn’t really see the race and I tried to watch it on my phone but there was no internet, so I was really just listening to the commentary. I could hear he was still in the race, then watching him come to the last fence, I was in floods of tears.

“I grabbed hold of David Porter, one of the head lads in Closutton. I got hold of the back of his bodywarmer and I was just shaking him – I don’t think he had any of his eardrum left either! I did think I Am Maximus was going to catch him, but Nick Rockett kicked on. He’s so tough, he’s only a small horse but he has the heart of a lion and he absolutely loves to jump. He jumps for fun.”

The aftermath of the race: “The Aintree vets and staff were fantastic”

Katie explains that Nick Rockett was feeling the effects of the heat in the immediate aftermath of the race, so as soon as he’d crossed the line, she and the vets and Aintree’s brilliant team of horse handlers attended to him, after which connections returned to the winner’s enclosure and waiting media.

“He was very warm afterwards – he’d put his heart and soul into the race and he came past the finish line with his ears pricked, then when he stopped he just got very warm and very tired, so he was a bit wobbly. But the Aintree vets and staff were fantastic,” says Katie.

“I’d say there were around 100 buckets of water poured over him before we even got him to the wash bay area, then another 300 buckets went over him as we walked in front of the fans. They were so good, there were maybe 10 people around him constantly pouring buckets of water over him. He got the best care in the world.

“The vets were on standby and stayed with us until he was perfect.

“I didn’t want to leave him to go to the presentation,” Katie continues. “But he’d started to perk up. We put him back in his stable and let him calm down. He was quiet as anything, back to normal, then later on, the minute we put his rug and sash on, he was ready to go again.

“‘Did you just forget you ran four miles?’ I said to him. Then I couldn’t get him to stand for the photos – he was so proud of himself and I’m so proud of him.”

Reflecting on the glory of Grand National success

Once Nick Rockett had been given the all-clear, he joined his stablemates on the journey back to Ireland and they were back in Closutton by 6.30am on Sunday morning. The bay gelding enjoyed a day in the field where videos showed him trotting around with a real spring in his step. The traditional Grand National homecoming parade and party was due to take place on Wednesday, 9 April.

“It still hasn’t sunk in that he’s won the National,” says Katie. “I’m just so happy for him. People wait 50 years to have a horse like Nick Rockett. He’s proved he’s the best. He’s always been a legend to me, but now he’s proved he’s a legend to the world – everyone knows who Nick Rockett is now.

“He’s a credit to Willie Mullins and to his owners; I’m just so lucky that they’ve brought this horse into my life.”

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The 2025 Randox Aintree Foxhunters’ Open Hunter Chase went the way of one of its most local participants on the opening day of the Grand National meeting at Aintree Racecourse (3 April). This race is a huge goal for many amateur jockeys, trainers and owners of point-to-point horses.

The winner, Gracchus De Balme, is trained in nearby Cheshire by Joe O’Shea and was today ridden by Huw Edwards. Together they put in a stunning display of jumping around one circuit of the famous Grand National fences, virtually leading from start to finish.

“He jumped and travelled; I kept filling him up the whole way and he’s seen it out well – it’s brilliant,” said Huw, who was overcome with emotion following this victory aboard the nine-year-old gelding, owned by Derek Malam.

“The start was a bit messy [a false start] but he travels and jumps well so he took me there, and he was spot-on the rest of the way. I could hear them coming, but I was too scared to have a look, really. He didn’t feel tired and he just kept finding.”

Second-placed Jet Plane, who was ridden by Jack Andrews and trained by Dan Skelton, headed Gracchus De Balme at the Elbow, but the latter bravely fought back to win by a length at odds of 22/1.

Gracchus De Balme started life in Ireland and was trained by Joseph O’Brien under Rules before he was bought for £12,000 in an online auction by Joe in 2024. He won his British pointing debut at Knightwick Races in Worcestershire last November and Joe’s head girl said after that victory that a crack at the Aintree Foxhunters’ was a possible target.

“I ride out for Joe most days and he does so well with his horses,” said Huw. “This horse was cheap and to have come and done this – it’s brilliant.”

Soon after that victory at Knightwick, Hannah suffered a serious fall on the gallops at home, which knocked her out and resulted in a broken back requiring emergency surgery.

“It was the worst day of my life,” said Hannah after Gracchus De Balme’s Aintree Foxhunters’ win. “But this horse winning like that is unbelievable and a great achievement. Honestly it’s so emotional.”

Trainer Joe O’Shea saddled Cousin Pascal to victory in the same race in 2021 when it was held behind closed doors, owing to Covid restrictions, and, echoing Hannah’s thoughts in November, he said this race had been the target for Gracchus De Balme.

“When Hannah had her accident on the gallops, I said to her ‘I’ll win the Foxhunters’ for you, don’t you worry’,” said Joe. “The right horse won and the money was on. Once he went past me at the Grand National start, I said to Hannah, ‘we’ve won this’.

“This is better than four years ago. Where we are in Cheshire, everyone is a hunting person and it was a shame there was nobody here then as it was a Covid year. This is what we missed. We are going to make up for it. We’ve won in front of our home crowd.”

• To stay up to date with all the breaking news from major shows throughout 2025, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

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I Am Maximus powered to victory with a superb performance in the 2024 Randox Grand National, giving top jockey Paul Townend his first win in the Aintree showpiece.

The 7/1 joint-favourite, trained by Willie Mullins, showed a fierce turn of foot at the end of the 4m 2 1/2f test, blazing up the run-in to win by 7 ½ lengths.

“It was an unbelievable race and he’s an unbelievable horse,” said Paul, carrying the famous green and gold silks of JP McManus to their third Grand National success.

“The volume of horses just pushed me down over the first three and he got a little careful on the second circuit, but I was trying to conserve as much as I could as well.

“We didn’t get the clearest run from the second last to the last, but it kind of helped me – I felt that he was going to start motoring when he got into clear air, which he did.

“The ones in front of me, I’m sure they weren’t looking for me, but I had them well in my sights and I was hoping he’d respond as I thought he would.

“The Gold Cup is the Gold Cup and Grade Ones are hard to win, but Grand Nationals are a bit different and you need so much luck. I can’t believe it, I’m a lucky boy.

“It’s what every young boy with a pony wants to do.”

Mr Mullins, who is now at the business end of the mix for the British trainers’ championship title, said that the eight-year-old “never shows on the gallop that he is a champion”.

“He’s nearly a stable pet. If you saw him out in the field you wouldn’t pass any remark, but he’s obviously got an engine,” he said.

Winning owner Mr McManus added: “I love everything about the race. I love Liverpool, the excitement of coming here, the build-up to the race. It’s just a very special place among very special people.”

The Gordon Elliott-trained Delta Work, third here in 2022 and who unseated his jockey last year, added another Grand National podium finish to his CV by finishing second with Jack Kennedy.

The 2021 Gold Cup winner Minella Indo, ridden by record-breaking Grand National-winning jockey Rachael Blackmore and trained by Henry De Bromhead, was third.

Ronnie Bartlett’s Galvin, saddled by Mr Elliott, completed the Irish-trained one-two-three-four with Sam Ewing on board.

Kitty’s Light, ridden by Jack Tudor, was the highest-placed British finisher in fifth for trainer Christian Williams. British amateur owner/rider David Maxwell finished sixth, with Ain’t That A Shame – the horse he bought for this race, trained by Mr De Bromhead.

Last year’s winner Corach Rambler unseated Derek Fox at the first.

This was the first running of the race since changes were made following the 2023 edition. A total of 32 started, 21 finished, four jockeys were unseated and seven pulled up.

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Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits. 

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Six former Grand National winners will hear the roar of the crowd again as they return to Aintree this week.

Dual winner Tiger Roll (winner 2018 and 2019), Minella Times (2021), plus senior veterans 21-year-old Pineau De Re (2014), 21-year-old Neptune Collonges (2012), Mon Mome (2009), now aged 24, and 27-year-old Silver Birch (2007) will be among those taking part in the legends parade before racing on the day of the Randox Health Grand National (Saturday, 13 April).

Those heading to the Randox Grand National Festival on Friday (12 April) will also have the chance to see a bevy of other former racing stars in the Retraining of Racehorses (RoR) parade. This will take place at 12.40pm and features eight horses, who are all excelling in their post-racing careers.

These include 2017 Becher Chase winner Blaklion, who had four Grand National starts and is now turning his skills to showing, fun rides, hunting and hunt races. Popular mare Lady Buttons, formerly trained by Philip Kirby, joined her exercise rider Jenny Durrans in retirement. She had a successful first debut season in the showing arena and will target eventing this season.

Others taking part in Friday’s parade include the former Willie Mullins-trained duo of Kemboy and Melon, plus Duke Of Navan, Touch Of Faith, Peveril Point and Master Wickham.

“Our thanks to Aintree racecourse and The Jockey Club for giving us the opportunity to put together such a great line-up of former racehorses to parade for the Aintree crowd,” said RoR director David Catlow.

“RoR parades are designed to educate racegoers whilst offering them a chance to witness first-hand the variety of different second career options open to racehorses once they retire from racing.

“They also highlight the need for further support and resources, as set out in the RoR Strategy 2024-2026, to ensure that we are able to safeguard the wellbeing of all former racehorses.”

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Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

A hospital specialist who helps comfort sick children through play will be recognised for her “outstanding work” by being named as the honorary 35th runner in the 2024 Randox Grand National this Saturday (13 April).

Amanda Walker, a play specialist in the A&E department at Alder Hey Children’s Hospital in Liverpool, helps children during their time there. This can be through play or by providing them with toys and equipment such as iPads and VR headsets

If a patient needs further treatment, for example a scan or a blood test, she will help demonstrate the step-by-step process by using dolls, example medical equipment and storyboards, to help them feel relaxed and reassured.

“I love the job because you’re always a friend to someone,” said Amanda. “You can see a child who comes in so scared, and they can leave so relieved and happy, and being a part of that is great.

“When we’re speaking to the patients and their families, everyone is so worried and they don’t know what’s going to happen next, so to be able to make their experience a bit more pleasurable and make them feel a bit more reassured is what this job is all about.”

Amanda’s career has always revolved around caring for children, including working as a nursery nurse, as a nanny, and in a school before studying for her play specialist qualification.

She will be joined by other members of the play specialist department from the hospital as guests at this year’s Randox Grand National Festival.

“I’ve got my hat ready! I’m very excited to be attending and am really looking forward to it, as well as being very proud to represent Alder Hey. A big thank you to Jockey Club for the opportunity, and for the support they’ve shown us throughout the years,” she said.

Alder Hey has a 22-year association with Aintree racecourse. The final race on ladies’ day (Friday, 12 April) will be run as the Alder Hey Handicap Hurdle and the racecourse will also be handing out 110 complimentary tickets to Alder Hey for each day of the festival.

The annual visit of jockeys to the hospital will take place on Friday morning and will include 2021 Grand National-winning jockey Rachael Blackmore, Patrick Mullins, Harry Skelton and the now 23-year-old former winning horse Neptune Collonges.

Dickon White, The Jockey Club’s regional director for Aintree racecourse and the northwest, said: “Aintree’s relationship with Alder Hey is an extremely close one which now stretches back over two decades.

“We are delighted to strengthen it even further by naming Amanda Walker as the honorary 35th runner in the 2024 Randox Grand National in recognition of her outstanding work as a play specialist.

“It is also tremendous news that a race will be run in Alder Hey’s name on ladies’ day, following on from the ever-popular visit by jockeys to the hospital in the morning.”

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Irish racehorse trainer John “Shark” Hanlon is riding the crest of a mighty wave with £800 purchase Hewick. The diminutive gelding has won more than £600,000 in prize money, including winning the American Grand National and most recently triumphing in the Grade One King George VI Chase at Kempton Park.

Next on the agenda is a crack at racing’s Blue Riband event, the Boodles Cheltenham Gold Cup, before all roads lead to Aintree for the Randox Grand National.

“You could travel the world to get a horse like him and the lad came from only five minutes down the road,” says Shark, who says Hewick’s small stature may have put off potential purchasers at his local Goresbridge sales. But after Shark’s intended purchase was a no-show, something about Hewick caught his eye, knowing nothing about him or his pedigree. “You never know where your next bargain is going to show up – and I like bargains!

“Every day you buy a horse you’re hoping that he’s the one, that he’s better than what’s on the card or you can improve his farm. But it’s getting harder.”

Hewick – “The biggest legend of all time and our pet”

The now nine-year-old gelding was bought for the knock-down price for owner TJ McDonald and Shark’s 16-year-old son Paddy now looks after the stable superstar.

“He was a bit wilder when he was younger so I took over when he was a five-year-old,” Paddy tells H&H. “As a four-year-old he wasn’t going that great – he had no luck point-to-pointing [his form figures read UR, F, F] or even when he went over hurdles. But it all just clicked one day and he’s been on an upper ever since. When he won Sedgefield over 3m5f in 2021, we realised we had something special – we had a Grand National horse on our hands.

“He’s the biggest legend of all time. He’s our lad and our pet.”

Hewick stays all day and is one of the “most chilled” horses on the yard, standing happily with his stable door wide open to greet his visitors on the day we visit, later enjoying a good roll in the mud with his field companion.

“A few horses would knock you down if you left his door open, he’s just one of those horses you can do what you like with him, go where you like with him – he has a great temperament and travelling doesn’t bother him so we probably won’t go to Cheltenham until Wednesday,” reveals County Carlow-based Shark.

Hewick’s target is Friday’s Gold Cup and the team are hoping their “tough as nails” yard hero fares better than his fall two fences from home in last year’s race when he looked in with a chance of victory under jockey Jordan Gainford.

“After Cheltenham, there is the English Grand National, then it will be back to America,” says the trainer. “There was also a race in Australia I was considering, but there are no flights which fit in with the two weeks’ quarantine, so he won’t be able to go this year. But the big plan remains to go to Australia with him.

“Having a horse like him gives us such a buzz,” says the trainer. “Hewick is such a talking horse, he’s everyone’s horse and everyone loves him, no matter where you go, everyone knows and wants to talk about Hewick. There’s a buzz everywhere – I was in the local town yesterday and they were all wishing us well for Cheltenham. But had he been at Willie Mullins, he wouldn’t have been seen because he’d be only one of a big number. Willie has a lot better horses than Hewick, but there’s not nearly so much buzz about them.”

Hewick “hits a flat spot then always comes back on the bridle”

“But the buzz of winning in America was unreal. The race after ours was delayed by about 25 minutes because of all the celebrations. Then it was absolutely brilliant to win the King George. I knew before we left that there was going to be some serious pace in the race because it had six runners, five of whom were front runners, and in races like that they often end up cutting each other’s throats. I said to jockey Gavin Sheehan that going down the back you might feel like he’s beaten, but don’t stop riding him, your last two furlongs are going to be your best two furlongs and that’s exactly what happened. Similarly, when Rachael Blackmore won on him at Sandown, she said, ‘You were right Shark – I thought he was well beat’, but he just comes back on the bridle.

“The one thing about our lad is you can make the running, you can sit in second or you can sit in last, it doesn’t matter,” says Shark, revealing that the son of Virtual is “in really good form” in the run-up to the Cheltenham Festival next month (12-15 March).

“He had a small cut on his leg before he came back in this season and we only had seven weeks before Kempton so I was afraid he wasn’t going to be fit enough,” explains Shark. “But he is not a huge horse who needs a lot of galloping – a couple of gallops puts our lad right and he is easy enough to keep sound.

“The ground is most important for him – he doesn’t want soft ground. Galopin Des Champs is obviously a very good horse but I’d love to meet him on proper good ground. Maybe if he’s as good as he is, he’ll win, but maybe he’s not as good on heavy ground. But every horse in the race is there to be looked at – it is always going to be a good race.”

“He’s small but he’s mighty – hopefully I’ll get a spin on him one day”

Paddy describes the feeling of his “powerful stride” when you’re riding Hewick.

“He’s small but he’s mighty, he’s come back stronger than ever and he’s fresh and happy in himself,”says the teenager, who has to wait for his 17th birthday in May before he can ride over jumps in Ireland, but has already ridden a winner for his father in England.

“Hopefully I can get a spin on Hewick one day. I learn from Dad every day – I’m tall so I’m not going to be a jumps jockey forever, so eventually I’d love to be a trainer. Hewick turned him from rags to riches and I hope he gets more horses. Four-year-old Silver Pageant is one we think very highly of – she’s doing everything right at home anyway, so hopefully she’ll be good for us when she races.”

Shark never ducks away from a challenge, travelling all over the world with his stable celebrity, but facing the might of the likes of Willie Mullins often feels like a David versus Goliath situation.

“It’s a tough game for smaller trainers and I think HRI [Horse Racing Ireland] need to open their eyes,” he says. “There should be more races for smaller trainers – maybe races for trainers who haven’t trained more than 10 winners, or 20 winners, or 30 winners and so on.

“I speak to my owners every day and some of them don’t even want a runner on a Sunday because they’ll come up against Willie winning all the races, so they’d rather have one in Thurles or Clonmel where they’d have more chance.

“At the Dublin Racing Festival there was more excitement in the two big handicaps than there were in all the Grade Ones. The Grade Ones and Grade Twos are lovely but they’re all about three or four people. HRI need to look beyond that to work out how they’re going to get people back to racing. That’s nothing against Willie or Gordon Elliott or anyone. But the smaller people have to be looked after, because without them you’re going to have races every weekend with five runners and people will quickly get bored.

“If it wasn’t for the cost of getting the horses from Ireland to England, I’d be racing in England every week – you can say I’m running away from Willie, I don’t care! But you have a better chance because you have a bigger area, more suitable races and lower grade races.”

Hewick will carry top weight for the Randox Grand National

Hewick has been allocated top weight of 11st 12lb for this year’s Randox Grand National on 13 April, where he bids to become the first horse since Golden Miller in 1934 to win the Cheltenham Gold Cup and the Grand National in the same season, which, with a cyclical four-week gap rather than three between the two races this year, makes for a prime opportunity.

“He probably deserves top weight,” says Shark. “I think the trip will suit him. He’s going for the Gold Cup first and please God he comes out of the Gold Cup safe and if he does he’ll definitely head to Aintree.

“He won the Galway Plate off nearly top weight, he won the bet365 Oaksey Chase at Sandown Park off a big weight. It’s not that he’s not used to carrying top weight and he carries it very well.

“It’s a mighty day. It’s one of those days you look forward to all year. The National, the Gold Cup and the King George at Kempton – they’re the three big days in England aren’t they, so it’s great to have a runner there.”

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The start time for the 2024 Randox Grand National (13 April) has been brought forward to 4pm following a review of last year’s race.

The Jockey Club, which owns and manages Aintree racecourse, revealed a number of changes to the iconic race in October. These included a new start time, which was to be confirmed following discussions with ITV.

What time does the Grand National start?

In recent years, the race has been scheduled for 5.15pm, but it will be brought forward to 4pm in a move to reduce “heightened tension” and ensure the best ground conditions.

“We leave no stone unturned in providing world-class standards of welfare for our participants and undertake a review after every Randox Grand National,” said Suleka Varma, Aintree’s clerk of the course and The Jockey Club’s northwest head of racing.

“These reviews look at a wide range of factors, and the learnings from the process drive a number of changes, large and small, annually. In October we announced that one of the changes being made from 2024 would involve bringing forward the start time of the race, which has been 5.15pm since 2016.

“This was a decision we took after a number of participants and other racing stakeholders raised concerns about the long build-up to the race throughout the day and heightened tension as a result. These were not issues which had been identified as a problem when the race was previously staged at 3.45pm and 4.15pm.”

She added: “Bringing forward the start time of the Randox Grand National by 75 minutes to 4pm will also help us to maintain optimal jumping ground, as warm or breezy conditions can dry out the racing surface.

“We would like to thank both our broadcast partner ITV and the British Horseracing Authority for their assistance in helping to bring about this change to a race which remains a British institution, loved and watched by millions of people all over the world every year.”

Other modifications to Aintree showpiece include a reduction in the maximum number of starters from 40 to 34, moving the first fence closer to the start, an increase in minimum ratings for horses and a standing start.

A total of 94 horses have been entered for the 2024 race. Weights will be announced on 20 February.

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Amateur National Hunt jockey Lucy Turner, 30, made history at Aintree Racecourse, Merseyside, on Saturday (9 December) as the first female jockey to win the BoyleSports Becher Handicap Chase over the world-famous Grand National fences.

Lucy has worked at Venetia Williams’ Herefordshire stables since she left school – her father worked there before her – and she triumphed on the yard’s 18/1 shot Chambard, an 11-year-old gelding owned by David and Carol Shaw. The yard favourite often races with his teeth out looking like a big grin, and this was his fifth win over fences since Lucy took the reins at the start of last year.

One of Lucy’s career highlights was winning the Fulke Walwyn Kim Muir Challenge Cup at the Cheltenham Festival last year on the same brilliant horse.

However, this was their first attempt at Aintree’s unique obstacles together and the pair quickly found a beautiful rhythm and looked to be loving the experience. They lobbed along with the front runners for much of the 3m2f race, effortlessly clearing the famous Grand National jumps including Becher’s Brook, Foinavon and The Chair.

When the underfoot conditions, combined with driving wind and rain, started to take is toll on much of the field – only five of the 12 starters crossed the line, separated by 137 lengths – Lucy and the son of Gris De Gris took up the running and soared across the line some 13 lengths clear of their nearest challenger, the Gordon Elliott-trained top weight Coko Beach, with Danny Gilligan in the saddle.

Finishing third was Percussion for trainer Laura Morgan and jockey Harry Reed, while the champion jockey Brian Hughes finished fourth on Celebre D’Allen for trainers Philip Hobbs and Johnson White.

Winning the Becher Chase “means the world”

Lucy’s sheer delight at winning the prestigious Becher Chase was clear to see.

“Chambard has been fantastic for me, and I am so pleased for owners David and Carol Shaw, who have been great supporters of mine over the last few years, so it is nice to get another big one for them. He hasn’t jumped these fences before, so we said we’d see how he takes to them, but that was the best spin I’ve ever had round there and he just loved it and kept galloping,” she said.

“As soon as they came to him, he quickened again. I could hear the others coming, but he’d gone again, and at the last he was like a fresh horse.

“I’ve always wanted to ride a winner over these fences, so to do it on him means the world. It was a bit hard trying to see coming into the home straight with all the rain coming down and the headwind, but he was a total professional. I think he surprises people; they think, ‘Can he go and do that?’ but then he shows them he can. I thought the way he jumped round Cheltenham last time, if he jumped like that round here he’d be absolutely fine, and as soon as he was over the first couple I knew he was loving it.”

Cheshire-based owner David Shaw said: “We’ve been lucky enough to have a few winners with Venetia – we thought Cheltenham was the pinnacle, but this gets pretty close to that. We love having Lucy on board!”

Lucy said she had a moment of disbelief, even after crossing the line.

“In the final furlong you just want to keep kicking until you are over the line, but I had a little look at the big screen and I could see we were clear,” she said. “After the line, I was thinking, ‘Has that actually just happened?’”

Lucy described the win as “probably the best day I’ve ever had in racing” and the Randox Grand National itself could be the target in April.

“Aintree is such a marvellous place, so to have a winner here is fantastic,” she said. “April is a long way away and we will think about that when the time comes, but this is a dream.

“If I can inspire someone from the next generation by winning here today, that’s wonderful.”

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The 30-year-old show pony mare Mountain Gale topped a 66-strong veteran in-hand final at the recent Show Teams And Rising Stars (STARS) Champion of Champions show at Aintree Equestrian Centre (23 — 26 November).

Mountain Gale, a pure-bred Welsh section B who is known at home as Gale, was handled to perfection by four-year-old Grace Speak, who had ridden the ever-green pony to also finish fourth in the show pony lead-rein final and second in the ridden veteran championship earlier in the week.

Grace is a member of Thornton Cleveleys and District Horse Club. Gale has been on loan from the Peake family for a decade.

Last season, Gale won the ridden veteran championship at STARS with Poppy Gorst in the saddle. She is also a former Royal Windsor in-hand senior champion, has previously contended the senior finals at London International Horse Show and is set to return this year with Grace.

“Gale was formerly ridden by my nieces and now Grace has taken the reins,” said Grace’s mother, Lucinda Speak, who led the pair during their ridden finals at Aintree. “They do all Pony Club activities together, and Grace recently rode Gale to pass her D and riding road safety tests. Gale is a true kid’s pony.”

When asked what the secret to Gale’s longevity is, Lucinda said that the mare thrives on a varied routine.

“She doesn’t like to be stabled so she lives out,” Lucinda said. “She lives a very varied life, and she is very rarely schooled. We love her to bits.”

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The Grand National field size will be reduced to a maximum of 34 runners and the first fence moved closer to the start in 2024 as part of changes designed to improve safety.

The decisions follow an evidence-based review by Aintree racecourse operators The Jockey Club, supported by the British Horseracing Authority (BHA).

The headline change is the reduction in runners from 40 – which was set in 1984 – to 34 in next year’s race (13 April, 2024). The first fence will be moved 60 yards closer to the start, to prevent horses from building up too much speed, and a standing start is being reintroduced. A new race time is also in discussion.

Aintree’s clerk of the course Sulekha Varma, who is also The Jockey Club’s north west head of racing, led the review.

“The welfare of our racehorses and jockeys is our number one priority at Aintree and we have invested significantly in equine welfare over many years,” she said.

“We continually review the Grand National and following an in-depth, evidence-based review process this year, we are announcing several changes as part of its continued evolution.

“One of our key areas of focus is reducing the risk of incidents during the race. We know from research papers and internal analysis of jump races that there is a direct correlation between the number of runners and the risk of falling, unseating or being brought down.

“However, we also must consider that reducing the field size by too great a number could create a faster race and have an adverse impact in terms of safety. Using the information available to us and considering the experiences of participants, our conclusion is that 34 should be the maximum number of runners in the race which we hope will result in the least number of incidents.”

Grand National changes: what else is on the cards?

Changes for 2024 also include alterations to the inside running rail, to help with early capture of loose horses, pop-up irrigation for more effective watering, widening the walkways in the paddock, plus foam and rubber toe boards on every fence. The height of fence 11, an open ditch, will be reduced by two inches on the take-off side (from 5ft to 4ft 10in) on take-off side, with some levelling off on landing side to reduce the height of the drop.

The minimum rating for all horses will be raised from 125 to 130 and pre-race veterinary protocols will continue to be developed. A Grand National review panel will “closely scrutinise” horses entered that have made jumping errors in 50% or more of their last eight races before allowing them to run.

Horses will no longer be led by handlers on course during the pre-Grand National parade and will instead be released at the end of the horsewalk to then canter in front of the grandstands.

“We also considered the start time of the race, which was traditionally much earlier in the afternoon but changed to 5.15pm in 2016,” said Ms Varma. “While this has helped build excitement among the crowd throughout the afternoon, it has proved challenging in managing the ground. Returning to an earlier race time was recommended by both the BHA executive and Horse Welfare Board in their feedback.

“The benefits and relevance of the pre-race parade of horses in front of the grandstand was also brought into question. We hope that allowing jockeys to canter their horses in front of the stands at their own pace will help create a calmer environment during the build-up to the race.”

BHA chief executive Julie Harrington said that the Grand National “is the world’s greatest horse race” and that it has “maintained that status, in part, because of the developments and changes that have been made to it”.

“These changes have enabled it to move with the times and maintain public support while also ensuring that it remains a unique, thrilling spectacle and the ultimate test of a racehorse,” she said.

“The package of measures which will be introduced for next year’s race seeks to strike this crucial balance, and the BHA endorses them in full.”

Dual Randox Grand National-winning trainer Lucinda Russell said the changes are “a clear sign” that Aintree and The Jockey Club “continue to be proactive in trying to support the Grand National and the wider sport”.

“I am fully supportive of reducing the field size and I don’t feel that six fewer runners will make a difference to the heritage of the race – it can only be a good step and hopefully will help improve the start procedures,” she said.

“As regards moving the first fence, the further you go then the more speed you are going to pick up so logically it should mean they approach it slower. I know that it’s tricky for the jockeys to manage their speed as it’s such an important race and everyone is vying for a good position.

“Aintree do a wonderful job in always producing perfect ground conditions; it is ground on the soft side of good which is the way it should be.

“The level of welfare in racing is phenomenal and something we should be proud of. Once again Aintree is trying to make things safer.”

Retired jockey Ruby Walsh, who rode two Grand National winners, said the changes “represent the evolution of the Grand National”.

“The world is ever-changing and the Grand National and indeed horseracing, like any other sport, has to be prepared to change. Risk can never be removed but you have to try and minimise it,” said Ruby.

“Horse welfare is a huge part of horseracing – it’s a team sport between horse and rider and we are responsible for the welfare of the horse.”

He added: “You hope small things make for big progress. A lot of thought and effort has gone into this process – it was a proper and thorough review. It’s 10 years since the last changes were made and you can look and see what has worked and what needs to be evolved.

“There are lots of people who don’t like change but all sports change. Soccer is not the same game it was 30 or even 15 years ago and looking at the Rugby World Cup, rugby has had to evolve. Racing is the same in that we have to evolve to ensure the future of the sport.”

RSPCA director of policy Emma Slawinski described the changes as “a welcome step”.

“We believe that racehorses should have a good life on and off the track and should never be exposed to unacceptable risk of injury or death,” she said. “Any steps from The Jockey Club to meet that aim are a positive step forward, we look forward to seeing this announcement pave the way for further changes and remain keen to work with them.”

• What do you think? Send your thoughts to hhletters@futurenet.com, including your name, nearest town and country, for the chance for your letter to appear in the magazine.

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Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits. 

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Jockey Davy Russell, who retired recently after a stellar 20-year career in the saddle, signs off again from the sport on a winning high at Aintree

To have the opportunity to ride such exceptional horses at Aintree in my last few days in the sport was really special. Winning a double of Grade Ones on Irish Point and Gerri Colombe was very pleasing and, looking back, continuing on beyond the Cheltenham Festival was the right thing to do.

Sometimes it doesn’t work out and I was happy enough to take my punishment after Cheltenham, but Gordon Elliott and my wife Edelle were adamant that it would be better if I finished on a better note, and they were right!

Unfortunately, my Grand National chances were lost at the first fence – which was entirely my own fault. A couple of strides out, I was happy enough, but then two horses to my side squeezed in and my horse Galvin just didn’t fully see the fence. That horse is a true professional, so it was just unfortunate.

There were a load of things going through my head as I hit the ground – my first thought, of course, was whether Galvin had got up OK, which he had. I checked I wasn’t too sore – I still had Pour Les Filles to ride in the bumper, my final ride. Then I made sure that the other lads who’d fallen at the first were all right, and when we knew they’d be bypassing the fence on the next circuit, due to Hill Sixteen’s fall, I helped the ground staff make sure the runners got a clean route past, which fortunately all worked out.

It’s very worrying what the protestors are talking about doing – their knowledge of horses appears very low and the harm they could do to the horses is a huge problem. Behind the scenes, while events were unfolding, there was no real panic, and the authorities did a marvellous job in trying to keep the disruption to a minimum. At the same time, it had a big effect on a lot of people and the horses.

While I wholeheartedly disagree with what the protestors are doing, there are tweaks to the Grand National that could be made. A shorter run to the first fence could be something for them to look at, and we need more room at the start because it does get pretty narrow towards the first for the 40 runners, while everyone is jostling for an early position.

But no taking away from what Corach Rambler and Derek Fox achieved by winning. Over the whole three days, trainer Lucinda Russell really advertised her abilities as a horsewoman. She’s a marvellous trainer, with Ahoy Senor also running so well in the Aintree Bowl, then Apple Away winning the Grade One Novices’ Hurdle on Friday.

“Everyone should be proud”

I enjoyed several other stand-out performances at the meeting – what the Gordon Elliott-trained Sire Du Berlais did to win the Liverpool Hurdle on Saturday was quite outstanding, and everyone involved should be very proud of that one. He’s an 11-year-old and he looked for all the world that he was going to be pulled up during the race, but jockey Mark Walsh knew best and he kept plugging on and actually won cosy in the end.

Constitution Hill is an exceptional horse, so his sixth successive Grade One success was great for trainer Nicky Henderson and especially owner Michael Buckley who’s been such a big supporter over the years. Then Famous Clermont got a marvellous ride from Will Biddick to win the Foxhunters.

What ties in all these winners is that connections know how hard it is to get a good horse, while they also know how important it is to look after them, and how to look after them. They know how to campaign them in the right races and how to design the year around a good horse.

I’d like to sign off by thanking everyone. I’ve really enjoyed myself over the past 20 years and the racing fans – on both sides of the Irish water – have been so good to me, which means so much. So thank you all.

● Does the Grand National need tweaking? Let us know at hhletters@futurenet.com, including your name, nearest town and county, for the chance to have your thoughts published in a future issue of Horse & Hound magazine

• This exclusive column will also be available to read in Horse & Hound magazine, on sale Thursday 27 April

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A long-time Randox Grand National favourite for the 2023 race is the charismatic gelding, Corach Rambler. The nine-year-old is trained in Kinross, Scotland, by Lucinda Russell and is ridden out at home by her partner, retired eight-time champion jockey Peter Scudamore and is the apple of Peter’s eye.

Lucinda is no stranger to success in the Grand National, having won in 2017 with the popular One For Arthur – Scotland’s first winner since Rubstic in 1979 – with Derek Fox in the saddle. Derek also hopes to take the reins on the nine-year-old Corach Rambler in this year’s race despite suffering a shoulder injury in a fall last week.

Corach Rambler had his first start under Rules for Lucinda over two years ago and quickly made a big impression, winning twice over hurdles before switching to fences that autumn. The gelding has since gone from strength to strength and comes to this year’s Randox Grand National off the back of an eye-catching victory in the three mile and a furlong Ultima Handicap Chase at the Cheltenham Festival, repeating his success of the previous year. As a result, he was then made favourite for the mile-longer Grand National, a race in which favourites have had a good record in recent years.

“The horse means so much and everyone knows that,” says Lucinda.

Speaking on the The Horse & Hound Podcast, Peter, who rides Corach Rambler out at home, says: “He takes me for a ride most days. The most dangerous part of being involved with Corach Rambler is tacking him up.”

Lucinda elaborates: “You put the bridle on, turn round to put the saddle on and he just walks off, wanders off down the line of stables, trit trot, trit trot.”

“Corach Rambler is smart, funny and he takes on cyclists on the road!”

Peter’s grandchildren have all sat on Corach Rambler and his striking face markings make him a real eye-catcher.

“He is an extraordinary character, you can see in everything about him,” he says. “Is he more of a character than any other? I don’t know.

“You never know about the fences at Aintree until they do it, but my undoubted belief is that he’s got all the talent and his style of racing would suit him in an ‘Arthur’ [One For Arthur] type of National. There’s part of me saying that we were so lucky to win it once, that could we ever deserve it again and I take nothing for granted. I have utmost belief that he can do it, but whether he will be able to is another thing.

“I look at Arthur’s National and you’d think he’d have to have a chance. We went to Liverpool though for the weights announcement last month and when you start to look at the list you realise just how tough a race it is.

“I think to myself ‘why do I love that horse at 64 years of age’ and it’s because the horse instills it into you. He’s a funny horse, if you watch him up the gallops he’ll do his work and then he turns around and wants to go home!

“I enjoy all of the attributes that Corach has, and I’d love to see that in a human being – he’s smart, he’s funny and he takes on cyclists on the road!”

Lucinda adds: “It’s funny having a favourite. If the bookies make your horse favourite, you’ve done your job. It just reaffirms we might have him in the right race.”

 “I think he’ll run a massive race in the Grand National”, says jockey Derek Fox

Jockey Derek Fox, who Peter describes as having an “innate sense of a horse”, says it’s a pleasure to ride Corach Rambler.

“I feel very lucky to be riding him as he is a very talented horse,” he says. “Thanks to Lucinda and ‘Scu’ for giving me these opportunities. I’m really looking forward to the Grand National now. He stays well and I think he will run a massive race in that.

“He’s a marvellous horse, the yard favourite really. He’s the horse of a lifetime. I can’t believe it.”

Corach is owned by an enthusiastic seven-strong syndicate named “The Ramblers”, one of whom is travelling over from Australia to watch his horse in action.

“They’re a syndicate of seven people and some of them had never had a horse before. They’re so together and it’s lovely and it meant a lot,” says Lucinda.

While most of us can only dream of having a runner in the Randox Grand National, 21-year-old student Cameron Sword has struck gold with Corach, his very first horse.

“I remember watching the Grand National and was just fascinated by it. I remember then learning how to study the form and things like that as well as the breeding side of racing,” says Cameron, who is in his third year studying business at Heriot-Watt University in Edinburgh and only started watching racing properly during lockdown.

“For me it’s always been the Grand National, I know for some people the Gold Cup is their great love, but I just love Aintree.

Corach Rambler: a £17,000 purchase and long-time Grand National favourite

“Lucinda and Scu, along with their bloodstock agent Paul McIvor, bought Corach for £17,000 and Lucinda set the syndicate up on the back of that,” continues Cameron. “There’s four of us in Scotland, one in Ireland, one in London and one in Australia. The age range goes from me to boys in their late fifties and early sixties, so it’s a nice mix.

“None of us knew each other before Corach, but as we started to go to races we started to become friends. We all know each other well now and we’ve shared some really special moments together, which I think build that bond more.”

Of his tilt at the world famous steeplechase, Cameron says: “It’s a complete underdog story and it always has been. Winning the Ultima the first time at Cheltenham was amazing itself, but to go back there and do it again and now be favourite for the Grand National is just a dream for all of us.

“It’s my first horse, but some of these guys have had a few horses in the past and have never experienced anything like this before – so it just opens my eyes to how lucky I’ve been.

“My family have previously had a Royal Ascot runner on the Flat years ago and after that haven’t had anything. They weren’t really involved but once my involvement with Corach started and my racing obsession has grown they’ve got back into it. They went to the Punchestown sales last year and picked up a really expensive horse and I think my mum is quite jealous that she’s spent all this money and Corach who cost 17 grand is the Grand National favourite!

“I was sitting down with Scu though and we were looking at all the angles of the race and this horse just ticks every single box. He’s 10lbs well-in at the weights, he’s got the stamina and he’s a good jumper, touch wood – so he should be there or thereabouts.

“The horse has given us absolutely everything,” says Cameron, who admits to screaming at the top of his lungs, cheering Corach home. “He’s won over £200,000 in prize money and he owes us nothing, but it’s having that dream of winning the Grand National which is so special.”

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Retired Grand National winner Neptune Collonges delighted youngsters and inspired dreams on his annual visit to Alder Hey Children’s Hospital today (14 April).

Owner John Hales and top jockeys Nico de Boinville, Harry Skelton Aidan Coleman and Patrick Mullins were among those who joined the gentle grey on his trip to the hospital, where they met children, parents and staff. Jockeys gave away signed goggles, and soprano Laura Wright performed a rendition of Somewhere Over the Rainbow.

“He has been coming here every year since he won the Grand National in 2012, excluding the two Covid years. He loves it and his temperament with the children is brilliant,” said Mr Hales.

“I enjoy this day and it is nice for the kids to help put a smile on their faces. I get a lot of satisfaction out of doing this.

“Thank God old Neptune is fit and well and long may it continue. I’m sure he does know when this day comes around, he certainly does when he sees the children.”

Nico de Boinville, fresh from his Grade One double on Thursday, was among those to visit Alder Hey Children’s Hospital with Neptune Collonges.

“It is fantastic what they all do here,” he said. “If we can do a small little thing to brighten up someone’s day then that is great. It is very touching to be here.

“You think about if you were in this position how would it feel for you and it is great to see so many cheery faces here and everyone being very positive.

“Of course it does put a different edge on the visit being a father, but what they do here is fantastic and words can’t really describe what they do here.”

Harry Skelton said it is an event that he always looks forward to.

“It puts everything into perspective coming here and it sometimes gives you a kick up the backside you might need about life,” said Harry.

“The kids are very unassuming and they are so positive which is great to see.

“Leading up to Aintree we always speak about this trip coming and it is great that a good number of us can make the effort and come here.”

Aidan Coleman echoed Harry’s thoughts, adding that he hopes meeting Neptune Collonges might inspire some to get into horses.

“It is great to do something like this and see the kids get some enjoyment. It is always cool to see Neptune Collonges and it is great that John Hales brings him. It is a special thing we are able to do and we are fortunate to be able to do it,” said Aidan.

“I guess we take it for granted that we are exposed to these horses every day. It is great to see from an outside perspective what it means to meet horses. Hopefully a couple might get the bug when they get out of hospital and take up riding.”

Patrick Mullins added that it is “nice to try and give something back”.

“I’ve heard about it and seen the pictures and we have done something similar at Crumlin (Children’s Health Ireland) back in Dublin,” he said. “Being here puts everything into perspective, really.

“When you think have problems this puts it all into perspective and I think it makes everyone realise how lucky we are.”

The visit was the first time that teenager Jess Plumpton, who is being treated for parainfluenza, had met a horse up close.

“He was lovely, especially as he was a grey horse, and I was surprised how gentle he was,” said the 13-year-old.

Ronnie Gough, seven, who broke his leg on Good Friday, was one of the first in the queue to meet Neptune Collonges.

“When he came down off the ward Ronnie was so excited to meet the horse. He would have liked to have ridden him but I said that might be a bit ambitious,” said his mum, Sam Price.

“It is lovely for the kids something like this taking place as it really brightens up their day,” she said. “Ronnie certainly enjoyed it and he wants a pony now! I really can’t fault the hospital. Both of us have been so well looked after.”

It was a special moment, too, for seven-year-old Hari John Cain Jones, who has spent a large part of his young life in hospital, receiving care and treatment for rare muscle-wasting condition X-linked myotubular myopathy.

Hari’s father, Michael Jones, said: “Hari has been in here for the last nine weeks but he has spent a lot of time in Alder Hey Children’s Hospital as the first time around he spent four years here.

“Things like this are brilliant. We were upstairs in the ward looking down but as soon as Hari heard the horse come in he wanted to come down.

“He loves horses and he watches the racing on television. With his disability it is not easily accessible seeing horses so this is great.

“He has been given some goggles by Rachael Blackmore and that has made his day. I think she is now his favourite jockey!”

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The brilliant racehorse Monty’s Pass, who won the 2003 Grand National with jockey Barry Geraghty, has died at the age of 29.

The Jimmy Mangan-trained gelding won eight of his 57 races and was placed in dozens more during an impressive career over fences. Among his greatest achievements were winning the Kerry National in 2002 and the Aintree showpiece the following year.

He retired from the sport in 2005 and lived out his days at the Mangan family’s farm in Cork and was the oldest living Grand National winner until his death last week, shortly before his 30th birthday.

His regular jockey Barry Geraghty credits Monty’s Pass for giving him one of the greatest moments in his career and he last visited the “brilliant” gelding in September.

“I couldn’t believe how alert and sharp he was – you’d never think for a second he was getting close to 30,” Barry told H&H. “Unfortunately he just slipped away last week.

“Jimmy and the whole Mangan family have been great friends of mine over the years so we’d always be chatting about him. We even brought our kids down to visit him in 2019 which was great – even our youngest son got to sit up on him and we got some great photos.

“He was so well cared for by the Mangan family and the lads on the yard, he’ll be very sadly missed down there.”

The son of Montelimar started out in point-to-pointing before he went chasing, and Barry first took the reins on a seven-year-old Monty’s Pass in 2000. The pair finished fifth in the Mildmay of Fleet Challenge Cup at the Cheltenham Festival in 2002 and came second in the Topham Chase over the Aintree fences shortly afterwards, but their standout moment came in 2003 when they won the Grand National by a staggering 12 lengths in the colours of the Dee Racing Syndicate.

“When you dream of winning the Grand National as a kid, it’s a titanic struggle all the way to the line and you win by a short head, you never dream of winning the Grand National celebrating with 100 yards to go,” said Barry, who was just 23 when he claimed the sport’s most famous race. “The race was just plain sailing for him – it was just ridiculously easy how it all unfolded. It was just magic.

“The Grand National is the race everyone wants to win, so to win one so early in my career was unbelievable. He was brilliant round there, he was just such a good jumper. The National is all about jumping, obviously, but he was just so neat and nimble, quick and clever, he was an armchair ride for a young jockey at Aintree.”

Trainer Jimmy Mangan had targeted the 2003 Grand National and, according to Barry, the conditions were ideal for Monty’s Pass that year.

“The ground was key to him – he needed good ground and the better the ground the better he was,” said Barry. “So once the ground came right for him, with the way he jumped and he had the perfect weight, 10st 7lb, the conditions were ideal so as much as you can fancy a horse for that race, we did.

“He was fourth in the race the following year with top weight – the ground was probably a bit slow for him – then he retired after the next one.”

“He also won the Kerry National at Listowel [in 2002] and his jumping was key that day too because there were a good few fallers. But he excelled round Aintree because it’s the ultimate jumping test. I never rode another horse like him round Aintree, he was just so clever. Absolute dynamite.”

The trainer’s daughter Jane Mangan told RTE on Sunday: “A few days ago my family said goodbye to the horse that made their dreams reality.

“The day was always going to come, it was always going to be sad, but rather than it be sad, we are grateful to have had him and for him to prove that fairytales do come true for ordinary people.”

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A little girl, who was born weighing 650grams and spent the first 13 months of her life in hospital has been named as the honorary 41st runner in the 2022 Randox Grand National (9 April).

Four-year-old Becky Batt was nominated by the Jockey Club for the spot, as part of a partnership to raise money for the Alder Hey Children’s Charity, which supports Alder Hey Hospital.

“Betty is just amazing. She is the most delightful, placid and brave little girl. A nurse once said to us, ‘Betty brings out the best in people’. Betty’s journey will continue and the remarkable NHS that saved her countless times will continue on this road with her,” said her father, Phil Batt.

“She is our little miracle and no matter what comes we will all continue to love her with everything we have and with utter joy and immense gratitude to those who never gave up on her and gave us this most precious gift.”

Betty was the size of a biro when she was born, more than four months premature, in June 2017. She needed constant treatment in the neonatal intensive care unit at Liverpool Women’s Hospital.

Doctors discovered Betty’s bowel was perforated in two places and she was transferred to Alder Hey Hospital for emergency surgery. It proved the first in a number of procedures needed to save Betty’s life.

She had frequent infections, needing blood transfusions, blood cultures and lumbar punctures, and her liver was seriously affected by her intravenous feeds. She also required a second bowel operation at Alder Hey.

Betty’s parents, Phil and Karen, were determined to bring Betty home to be with her brother and sister, Stanley and Martha. The team at Alder Hey trained them with the skills needed to deal with her medical needs, including her tracheostomy, so she could go home to her family after 13 months in hospital.

This year marks the 20th anniversary of Aintree’s partnership with the hospital, and Alder Hey is also the official charity of the Randox Grand National Festival (7 to 9 April).

“Our relationships with those in the local community are so important to us all here at Aintree and none more so than the close bond we’ve formed with Alder Hey Children’s Hospital over the past 20 years,” said Dickon White, the Jockey Club’s regional director for Aintree racecourse and the north west.

“The work they do is phenomenal and rightly receives not only nationwide but worldwide recognition. We’re proud to work with them throughout the year, not just during the Randox Grand National Festival, and it’s our honour to name Betty as the 41st runner in 2022.

“By highlighting the Batt family’s story and promoting the work Alder Hey do for children and young people day in, day out we hope to raise awareness and much needed funds to help other youngsters and their families.”

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Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

If you’re wondering which of the Grand National contenders to side with after the all-important weights were revealed last week, Ascot’s meeting on Saturday 19 February provided a good pointer in the form of the Swinley Chase winner. The Henry Daly-trained Fortescue is certainly worth keeping an eye on as we get nearer to the Randox Health Grand National Festival at Aintree in April, while we even look ahead to the 2023 Grand National…

FORTESCUE

With the first two in Haydock’s Grand National trial on Saturday (The Galloping Bear and Bristol De Mai, see below) not engaged in this year’s Grand National at Aintree, it was the greatbritishstallionshowcase.co.uk Swinley Chase that provided more National clues. It was won by Henry Daly’s Fortescue, who stayed on strongly from the second-last to beat top-weight Fiddlerontheroof whose powder had been kept dry by the Tizzards until after last week’s National weights had been announced.

Fortescue could have done with this result a week earlier – before the weights were published. He was ridden by Hugh Nugent, who is attached to Venetia Williams. The horse has been allotted 10 stone in the National, which means 25 horses on top of Tiger Roll need to drop out of the race before he gets a run.

“It’s great,” said the jockey after what was by some margin his biggest winner. “My [maternal] granddad bred and owns him – it would be great to have a ride for him in the National; last year he’d have missed the cut, the time before he’d have got in.

“But I’m pretty happy with today. You always have to niggle a bit with him, but you don’t mind because he always finds and his jumping is superb. In those marathon trips, you want a horse who always has a bit up his sleeve,” he added.

THE GALLOPING BEAR

Looking even further ahead, one of the best-named horses in training could be one to add to your notebooks for the 2023 Grand National.

Genuine heavy ground has been something of a rarity this winter, but The Galloping Bear – a graduate of the British point-to-point scene along with his “rookie” trainer Ben Clarke – absolutely thrived on it to win the William Hill Grand National Trial at Haydock.

Turning in, Bristol De Mai – winner of three Betfair Chases, but not a National candidate this year after showing his disdain for Aintree last April – looked set to win his sixth race at Haydock. But conceding 19lb to the Adrian Paterson owned ex-pointer was beyond even Nigel Twiston-Davies’s star 11-year-old and The Galloping Bear, for whom no distance or ground can be too testing, finally ground him down going to the last before going on to win by seven lengths.

He won the Surrey National over 3m5f on Lingfield heavy so Haydock, over a similar distance, was never going to hold any fears for him.

“We had talked about the Midlands National, but that was an absolute war out there today,” said Ben Clarke. “If you see him again this season, it’ll be over the water in the Irish National. He’s very conditions dependent, so next season we’ll probably look at the Welsh National and then maybe on to the big one at Aintree – but it will depend on the ground.

“And he’s not the type of horse you’ll see running five or six times a season. We had him two seasons before we got him on track, because he had niggling problems and he’s still quite fragile.”

• Read Marcus’s full report on the weekend’s racing action in Horse & Hound, in shops on Thursday 24 February

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Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits. 

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Trevor Hemmings, three-time Grand National-winning owner and one of racing’s most ardent supporters, has died aged 86.

Tributes from across the sporting world have poured in for the philanthropist and businessman, whose yellow, green and white colours will be forever synonymous with jump racing.

Preston North End, the football club owned by Mr Hemmings, announced the news of his passing on Monday night (11 October), and a minute’s silence was held before the club’s match against Rochdale today.

Mr Hemmings was brought up in Woolwich Arsenal, where his father worked at the munitions factory, and he was sent to Lancashire as a five-year-old during World War II.

He left school at 15 to become a bricklayer’s apprentice, going on to set up his own housebuilding company with £12 capital, before becoming involved in Pontins holiday business. It was during his time with Pontins that his passion for racing was sparked.

“All of us at The Jockey Club are extremely saddened to hear of the passing of Trevor Hemmings,” said Dickon White, the Jockey Club’s regional director for the north west.

“His passion for jump racing was unrivalled and his support for the Randox Grand National was second to none. It was hugely satisfying for everyone to see his support rewarded with a joint-record third Grand National winner six years ago and it is no exaggeration to say that it is due to Trevor’s passion that the great race’s profile remains as high as ever.”

Hedgehunter (2005), Ballabriggs (2011) and Many Clouds (2015) were the three horses to carry his colours to the winners enclosure in the Aintree showpiece. His first Grand National runner was Rubika in 1992, who finished 14th, and he had at least one runner in every edition of the race from 2000 to 2021.

Mr Hemmings also enjoyed success as an owner at the Cheltenham Festival, with a total of 12 winners. These were headed by dual Ryanair Chase winner Albertas Run, while Hedgehunter recorded a memorable second place in the 2006 Gold Cup a year after his Grand National triumph.

His love of horses reached beyond the racing world, including owning Zara Tindall’s London 2012 Olympic silver medal-winning ride, High Kingdom (“Trev”). Zara’s current top ride, Class Affair, who is entered at Maryland CCI5* this week, is also owned by Mr Hemmings’ Gleadhill House Stud.

Many of his horses retired to live with him at his Isle of Man base, Ballaseyr Stud, also home to Shires and Suffolks among others, and he was a life member of the Shire Horse Society.

Mr Hemmings’ philanthropic work included the role of chairman of the TJH Foundation, a charity that makes grants to good causes. In 2011 he was appointed a Commander of the Victorian Order (CVO) for his work as vice-president of the Princess Royal Trust Carers.

Twenty-time champion jockey AP McCoy said he was “very proud” to have worn Mr Hemmings’ colours on “many wonderful days”.

“He was a great friend to many, but a greater friend to our sport and that of his beloved [Preston North End],” he said.

Oliver Sherwood, trainer of Many Clouds, added Mr Hemmings was a “true legend of a man” and as important as that, he was a “true gentleman”.

Donald McCain, who trained Ballabriggs, remembered him as a great supporter to both him personally, National Hunt racing and the sport in the north of England.

“A gentleman and a huge support to myself and my family for many years, there can be no bigger loss to National Hunt racing,” he said.

Jonjo O’Neill added he was “desperately sad” to hear the news.

“He was a passionate, generous and loyal friend who I was lucky to share so many magical days with on and off the racecourse,” he said.

“The world has lost a truly incredible man and horse racing, one of its greatest supporters.”

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Hedgehunter wins the Grand National

The 2005 John Smiths Grand National sees the 7-1 favourite Hedgehunter come home ahead of Royal Auclair and Simply Gifted

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After rewriting the history books to become the first female jockey to win the Grand National in the race’s 182-year history, Rachael Blackmore announced: “I can’t believe I am Rachael Blackmore. Genuinely I feel like that little kid and I just can’t believe it’s me.”

The Irish jockey is living the dream while inspiring a new generation of aspiring young riders that anything possible.

To help celebrate Rachael Blackmore’s tremendous feat, we take a look back at some of the other women who smashed the glass ceiling at Aintree. 

1951: Nickel Coin is the first Grand National winner to be led in by a stable lass, Jo Wells (now Motion), rather than lad.

The 19-year-old looked after Nickel Coin and the following weekend took the mare hunting at the Surrey Union’s closing meet of the season. Incidentally, the Jack O’Donoghue-trained winner, who was ridden in the race by Surrey farmer John Bullock, was the 13th mare to win the Grand National but none has passed the line in front since.

1977: Charlotte Brew (now Budd) on Barony Fort is the first woman to ride in the race.

Shortly after female jockeys were given the green light to ride in the Grand National, 21-year-old Charlotte Brew lined up for the 1977 race (pictured), reaching as far as the fourth fence from home where they were hampered and Barony Fort refused. The winner of the race was Red Rum, earning the third of his Grand National victories.

1982: Geraldine Rees is the first female jockey to complete the Grand National, on Cheers.

Geraldine, 26, a junior European eventing gold medallist, rode round to finish eighth and last of the finishers in the fifth attempt by a female jockey in the four-and-a-half-mile steeplechase. 

1983: Jenny Pitman becomes the first female trainer of a Grand National winner, with Corbiere. 

Jenny went on to repeat the feat in 1995, with Royal Athlete, and was subsequently joined by Venetia Williams (Mon Mome, 2009), who also rode in the race in 1988, Sue Smith (Auroras Encore, 2013) and Lucinda Russell (One For Arthur, 2017). In 1993 the Jenny Pitman-trained Esha Ness was first past the post in the void Grand National.

1986: Caroline Beasley on Eliogarty is crowned the first woman jockey to win over the Grand National fences, in Aintree’s Fox Hunters race.

Caroline (now Robinson) won in this race for amateur riders, having also made history as the first woman to win at the Cheltenham Festival in the Foxhunter there in 1983.

1994: Rosemary Henderson achieves a then highest-placed finish of fifth on Fiddlers Pike.

Rosemary was 51 when she crossed the line behind Miinnehoma with her own Fiddlers Pike and became only the second female jockey to complete the course. After an absence of 11 years, the next woman to enter the Grand National, Carrie Ford (Forest Gunner) also finished fifth, with the pair sharing the record for a further seven years. 

2012: Katie Walsh goes two better on Seabass to finish third in the Grand National.

The Irish jockey was the first female jockey to finish in the top three and both Katie and Nina Carberry started in a record six Grand Nationals each.

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2021: Rachael Blackmore becomes the first female jockey in the Grand National’s 182-year history to win the famous steeplechase.

Riding the Henry de Bromhead-trained Minella Times and lining up in the Grand National for her third attempt, Rachael rewrote the history books and became a global superstar. “Keep your dreams big,” she said afterwards. There were three female jockeys in this year’s race – Rachael was joined by Bryony Frost and first-timer Tabitha Worsley, who finished 14th.

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade to access our H&H Plus online service which brings you breaking news as it happens as well as other benefits.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

The family of late Aintree chairman Rose Paterson have launched a suicide prevention charity in her memory to help others who are silently suffering “before it is too late”.

Her daughter, Evie Paterson, opened the virtual Aintree Grand Women’s Summit on Friday (9 April), the day before the family officially launched the Rose Paterson Trust.

“It shouldn’t be me here today at all; it should be my mother, Rose Paterson, who was chairman of Aintree until she tragically took her own life in June last year,” said Evie.

“She always did the introductions to the Grand Women’s Summit so beautifully and so gracefully, and I cannot hope to fill her shoes.

“As the first female chairman of a National Hunt racecourse, she herself understood what it was like to operate in a man’s world and was passionate about helping other women succeed in racing, and sport more broadly.”

She added that her mother would have been delighted to see Rachael Blackmore’s achievements at the Cheltenham Festival, with Rachael’s history-making Grand National win following a day after the conference.

“I myself know how much she believed in the value of amateur sport. Thanks to her selflessness, encouragement and support, I had a relatively successful eventing career as a teenager and was selected to represent Great Britain a few times,” she said.

“My eventing career was not only great fun, but also an invaluable experience and it would not have been possible without her unwavering support and willingness to sacrifice her weekends, driving me around the countryside and even sleeping in a horsebox. She never resented doing this as she recognised the link between physical and mental health so well, and firmly believed that competing was great training for life. Not least in learning how to cope with failure.”

Evie added: “I hope I’ve made it clear by now what a wonderful woman my mother was and how much she did for others. By launching the trust in her name, we hope to do her proud and use our family tragedy to ourselves help others, who are silently suffering like she was, before it is too late. We’ve said from the start that if we can help just one other family from the agony of suicide, then the initiative will have been worth it.”

Mrs Paterson was inducted as an Aintree Legend in a short ceremony at the racecourse on Saturday (11 April) morning, where a plaque bearing her name was unveiled in the hall of fame, and the trust was officially launched.

The ceremony was brought to a close by a rendition of Ave Maria by soprano Laura Wright, and the Aintree chairman Nicholas Wrigley paid tribute to Mrs Paterson’s legacy.

Her husband Owen Paterson, MP for North Shropshire, paid tribute to his late wife and thanked the racecourse for making her one of its legends.

“She absolutely loved this place. She loved Liverpool, she loved the staff and she loved doing what she did. She loved the characters and I think she’d be very pleased with her position (on the wall), above Trevor Hemmings but below Many Clouds!” he said.

“For us it’s just a very sad day. Normally we’d have come in early and we’d have walked the course and she’d be picking out all the details, and she’s not here. But what we’ve done — and I pay massive tribute to my three children — we’ve set up the Rose Paterson Trust.

“Our very simple aim is to raise money for suicide prevention and to publicise that in the next 90 minutes someone will take their life – which is nearly 15 jumbo jets [of people] per year. We feel very strongly that this should be talked about more and if we can possibly prevent one single family going through the extreme anguish that we went through.

“The reaction of racing has been quite extraordinary and I’d like to thank everyone who has pledged so far. We will put the money forward to projects and charities which we hope will prevent suicide and might just save that one family.”

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Community award

An award recognising women from Merseyside who are “making a difference” to grassroots sport was also launched at Friday’s summit in Mrs Paterson’s memory.

“She [my mother] understood that Aintree and the Grand National belonged to Liverpool, and did a huge amount to forge and strengthen the links between the racecourse and the communities of Merseyside, through sponsorships, partnerships and charitable causes,” said Evie.

“She even took in four rather naughty equine inhabitants of Park Palace Ponies, a riding school for deprived children in Toxteth, at the beginning of the first lockdown and they spent the entire summer with us at home in Shropshire.

“Because of everything she did, she was — and still is — incredibly highly regarded and well-loved in the community here in Liverpool. It’s an amazing thing to be able to announce now and to bring all these aspects of her legacy together, we are launching the Rose Paterson Community Sportswoman Award.

“This will be an annual award given by Aintree to recognise a girl or woman from Merseyside who is making a difference to grassroots community sport, through participation or support.

“We want to reward girls and women, sportspeople or otherwise, who display the qualities that my mother possessed in abundance — perseverance, selflessness, devotion and inclusiveness among others.”

The winner will be announced at next year’s Grand Women’s Summit and she will receive financial support, through a bursary at Aintree, and will also be invited to the Grand National.

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade to access our H&H Plus online service which brings you breaking news as it happens as well as other benefits.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Who will win the Grand National when the race gets underway today (10 April) at 5.15pm 2021? Here’s the full list of runners and riders…

Who will win the Grand National? Here are the runners to pick from

The following horses will line up for the Grand National. Currently 44 horses are declared to run, but only 40 are permitted to line up in the race.

Horse: Cloth Cap | Jockey: Tom Scudamore | Place bet: 6/1

Trainer: Jonjo O’Neill

Burrows Saint| Jockey: Mr P W Mullins | Place bet: 10/1

Willie Mullins

Any Second Now |Jockey: Mark Walsh | Place bet: 11/1

Henry de Bromhead

Minella Times | Jockey: Rachael Blackmore | Place bet: 11/1

Henry De Bromhead

Mister Malarky | Jockey: Jonjo O’Neill Jr | Place bet: 16/1

Colin Tizzard

Takingrisks | Jockey: Sean Quinlan | Place bet: 16/1

Nicky Richards

Magic Of Light | Jockey: Robbie Power | Place bet: 20/1

Jessica Harrington

Kimberlite Candy | Jockey: Richie McLernon | Place bet: 20/1

Nicky Henderson

Discorama | Jockey: B J Cooper | Place bet: 22/1

Paul Nolan

Acapella Bourgeois | Jockey: Danny Mullins | Place bet: 25/1

W. P. Mullins

Potters Corner | Jockey: Jack Tudor | Place bet: 25/1

Christian Williams

Farclas | Jockey: Jack Kennedy | Place bet: 25/1

Denise Foster

Bristol De Mai | Jockey: Daryl Jacob | Place bet: 28/1

Nigel Twiston-Davies

Anibale Fly | Jockey: Denis O’Regan | Place bet: 28/1

A J Martin

Definitly Red | Jockey: Henry Brooke | Place bet: 33/1

Brian Ellison

Give Me A Copper | Jockey: Harry Cobden | Place bet: 33/1

Paul Nicholls

Chris’s Dream | Jockey: Darragh O’Keeffe | Place bet: 50/1

Henry De Bromhead

Yala Enki | Jockey: Bryony Frost | Place bet: 50/1

Paul Nicholls

Talkischeap | Jockey: Tom Cannon | Place bet: 50/1

Alan King

Shattered Love | Jockey: Kevin Sexton | Place bet: 50/1

Denise Foster

Milan Native | Jockey: Mr J J Codd | Place bet: 50/1

Denise Foster

Sub Lieutenant | Jockey: Tabitha Worsley | Place bet: 50/1

Georgie Howell

Lake View Lad | Jockey: Brian Hughes | Place bet: 66/1

N W Alexander

Lord Du Mesnil | Jockey: Nick Scholfield | Place bet: 66/1

Richard Hobson

Class Conti | Jockey: Brian Hayes | Place bet: 66/1

Willie Mullins

Vieux Lion Rouge | Jockey: Conor O’Farrell | Place bet: 66/1

David Pipe

Canelo | Jockey: Tom Bellamy | Place bet: 66/1

Alan King

The Long Mile | Jockey: L P Dempsey | Place bet: 66/1

J P Dempsey

Blaklion | Jockey: Harry Skelton | Place bet: 66/1

Dan Skelton

Ballyoptic | Jockey: Sam Twiston-Davies | Place bet: 80/1

Nigel Twiston-Davies

Alpha Des Obeaux | Jockey: Jody McGarvey | Place bet: 80/1

Denise Foster

Ok Corral | Jockey: Mr Mr Derek O’Connor | Place bet: 80/1

Nicky Henderson

Cabaret Queen | Jockey: Sean O’Keeffe | Place bet: 80/1

Willie Mullins

Double Shuffle | Jockey: Jonathan Burke | Place bet: 80/1

Tom George

Balko Des Flos | Jockey: Aidan Coleman | Place bet: 100/1

Henry De Bromhead

Jett | Jockey: Mr Sam Waley-Cohen | Place bet: 100/1

Jessica Harrington

Minellacelebration | Jockey: Ben Poste | Place bet: 100/1

Katy Price

Hogan’s Height | Jockey: Gavin Sheehan | Place bet: 100/1

Jamie Snowden

Ami Desbois | Jockey: Kielan Woods | Place bet: 100/1

Graeme McPherson

Tout Est Permis | Jockey: Sean Flanagan | Place bet: 125/1

Noel Meade

Betting terms and conditions: Minimum deposit £5. Bet credits available for use upon settlement of bets to value of qualifying deposit. Minimum odds, bet and payment method exclusions apply. Returns exclude bet credits stake. Time limits and T&Cs apply. Be Gamble Aware.

What is the prize money for winning?

The total prize pot for the 2021 Randox Grand National Handicap Chase is £750,000 and the winner takes home £375,000 making it the most valuable jumps race in Britain and Ireland.

Recent winners

2020: race cancelled due to Covid-19

2019: Tiger Roll – read the race report

2018: Tiger Roll – read the race report

2017: One For Arthur – read the race report

2016: Rule The World – read the race report

2015: Many Clouds – read the race report

2014: Pineau de Re – read the race report

2013: Auroras Encore – read the race report

2012: Neptune Collonges – read the race report

Winning-most trainer, horse, jockey and owner

There are currently four all-time leading Grand National trainers — each have won four renewals of the race. They are George Dockeray (Lottery, 1839; Jerry, 1840; Gaylad, 1842; Miss Mowbray, 1852), Fred Rimell (E.S.B., 1956; Nicolaus Silver, 1961; Gay Trip, 1970; Rag Trade, 1976) and Ginger McCain (Red Rum, 1973, 1974, 1977; Amberleigh House, 2004. The all-time most successful horse in the Grand National is Red Rum, who won it a total of four times. The top all-time Grand National jockey is George Stevens, who won a total of five times – (Freetrader, 1856; Emblem 1863; Emblematic, 1864; The Colonel, 1869, 1870). And there are four leading Grand National owners, who each have a total of three wins to their names — James Octavius Machell (Disturbance, 1873; Reugny, 1874; Regal, 1876), Noel Le Mare (Red Rum, 1973, 1974, 1977), Trevor Hemmings (Hedgehunter, 2005; Ballabriggs, 2011, Many Clouds, 2015) and Gigginstown House Stud (Rule The World, 2016; Tiger Roll, 2018, 2019).

Continued below…

How to watch Grand National 2025 live streams and TV coverage: your armchair viewing guide

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Today (8 April 2021) the Grand National meeting gets underway at Aintree Racecourse.

Here we bring you a full day-by-day breakdown of the Grand National racecard, so that you know what is happening, when at this year’s meeting.

Grand National racecard

Thursday 8 April

1.45pm: SSS Super Alloys Manifesto Novices’ Chase (Grade One)2.20pm: Doom Bar Anniversary four-year-old Juvenile Hurdle (Grade One)2.50pm: Betway Bowl Chase (Grade One)3.25pm: Betway Aintree Hurdle (Grade One)4.05pm: Rose Paterson Randox Foxhunters’ Open Hunters’ Chase (Class Two)4.40pm: Close Brothers Red Rum Handicap Chase (Grade Three)5.15pm: Goffs UK Nickel Coin Mares’ Standard Open National Hunt Flat Race (Grade Two)

Friday 9 April

1.45pm: Pertemps Network Handicap Hurdle (Grade Three)2.20pm: Betway Top Novices’ Hurdle (Grade One)2.50pm: Betway Mildmay Novices’ Chase (Grade One)3.25pm: Marsh Chase (Grade One)4.05pm: Randox Topham Handicap Chase (Grade Three)4.40pm: Doom Bar Sefton Novices’ Hurdle (Grade One)5.15pm: Pinsent Masons Handicap Hurdle (Class Two)

Saturday 10 April

1.45pm: EFT Systems Handicap Hurdle (Grade Three)

2.25pm: Betway Mersey Novices’ Hurdle (Grade One)

3pm: Doom Bar Maghull Novices’ Chase (Grade One)

3.35pm: Ryanair Stayers Hurdle (Grade One)

4.15pm: Betway Handicap Chase (Grade Three)

5.15pm: Randox Grand National Handicap Chase (Grade Three) Have a flutter on your favourite here

6.20pm: Weatherbys nhstallions.co.uk Standard Open National Hunt Flat Race (Grade Two)

Continued below…

A bluffer’s guide to reading a racecard

Who will win the Grand National? Have a flutter on your pick here…

Who will win the Grand National when the race gets underway today (10 April) at 5.15pm 2021? Here’s the full

Which race? Which day? What time? The full Grand National meeting racecard

On 8 April 2021 the Grand National meeting gets underway at Aintree Racecourse. Here we bring you a full day-by-day

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Keep up-to-date with all the latest news and updates from the Grand National meeting via the Horse & Hound website and read the full report in the 15 April issue of the magazine

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Over three days of great sporting action, you will be able to view the top three past the post Grand National results right here from the whole meeting.

This page will be updated after the conclusion of each race at Aintree Racecourse, so keep checking back.

Grand National results

Thursday 8 April

1.45pm: SSS Super Alloys Manifesto Novices’ Chase (Grade One)

1st: Protektorat | Jockey: Harry Skelton | Trainer: Dan Skelton | Owner: Sir A Ferguson, G Mason, J Hales & A Hales2nd: The Shunter | Jockey: Brian Hughes | Trainer: Emmet Mullins | Owner: John P McManus3rd: Hitman | Jockey: Harry Cobden | Trainer: Paul Nicholls | Owner: Mason, Hogarth, Ferguson and Done

2.20pm: Doom Bar Anniversary four-year-old Juvenile Hurdle (Grade One)

1st: Monmiral | Jockey: Harry Cobden | Trainer: Paul Nicholls | Owner: Sir A Ferguson, G Mason, J Hales & A Hales2nd: Adagio | Jockey: Tom Scudamore | Trainer: David Pipe | Owner: Bryan Drew & Friends & Professor C Tisdall3rd: Fiveandtwenty | Jockey: Brian Hughes | Trainer: Donald McCain | Owner: Middleham Park Racing XCVI

2.50pm: Betway Bowl Chase (Grade One)

1st: Clan Des Obeaux | Jockey: Harry Cobden | Trainer: Paul Nicholls | Owner: Mr & Mrs P K Barber, G Mason & Sir A Ferguson2nd: Clondaw Castle | Jockey: Jonathan Burke | Trainer: Tom George | Owner: J French, D McDermott, S Nelson & T Syder3rd: Native River | Jockey: Jonjo O’Neill Jr | Trainer: Colin Tizzard | Owner: Brocade Racing

3.25pm: Betway Aintree Hurdle (Grade One)

1st: Abacadabras | Jockey: Jack Kennedy | Trainer: Denise Foster | Owner: Gigginstown House Stud2nd: Buzz | Jockey: James Bowen | Trainer: Nicky Henderson | Owner: Thurloe For Royal Marsden Cancer Charity3rd: Millers Bank | Jockey: Kielan Woods | Trainer: Alex Hales | Owner: Millers Bank Partnership

4.05pm: Rose Paterson Randox Foxhunters’ Open Hunters’ Chase (Class Two)4.40pm: Close Brothers Red Rum Handicap Chase (Grade Three)5.15pm: Goffs UK Nickel Coin Mares’ Standard Open National Hunt Flat Race (Grade Two)

Friday 9 April

1.45pm: Pertemps Network Handicap Hurdle (Grade Three)2.20pm: Betway Top Novices’ Hurdle (Grade One)2.50pm: Betway Mildmay Novices’ Chase (Grade One)3.25pm: Marsh Chase (Grade One)4.05pm: Randox Topham Handicap Chase (Grade Three)4.40pm: Doom Bar Sefton Novices’ Hurdle (Grade One)5.15pm: Pinsent Masons Handicap Hurdle (Class Two)

Saturday 10 April

1.45pm: EFT Systems Handicap Hurdle (Grade Three)

2.25pm: Betway Mersey Novices’ Hurdle (Grade One)

3pm: Doom Bar Maghull Novices’ Chase (Grade One)

3.35pm: Ryanair Stayers Hurdle (Grade One)

4.15pm: Betway Handicap Chase (Grade Three)

5.15pm: Randox Grand National Handicap Chase (Grade Three) Have a flutter on your favourite here

6.20pm: Weatherbys nhstallions.co.uk Standard Open National Hunt Flat Race (Grade Two)

Continued below…

Who will win the Grand National? Have a flutter on your pick here…

Who will win the Grand National when the race gets underway today (10 April) at 5.15pm 2021? Here’s the full

How to watch Grand National 2025 live streams and TV coverage: your armchair viewing guide

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Keep up-to-date with all the latest news and updates from the Grand National meeting via the Horse & Hound website and read the full report in the 15 April issue of the magazine

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Ahead of this weekend’s Randox Health Grand National (5.15pm on Saturday 10 April 2021), we thought we would give you a virtual tour around the entire course and provide you with all the information you need to know about the Grand National fences…

The Grand National fences

There are 16 fences on the Grand National and they are created with spruce from the Lake District. They are topped with at least 14 inches of spruce. The cores of 12 fences were rebuilt in 2012 in an effort to improve the safety of the race and they are now made of a flexible plastic material, which is more forgiving than the traditional wooden core fences.

Fence one and 17

Height: 4ft 6 inches (1.37 m)

Fence two and 18

Height: 4ft 7 inches (1.40 m)

Fence three and 19 – open ditch

Height: 4ft 10 inches (1.47 m); fronted by a 6ft (1.83 m) ditch

This is the first big test in the race as it comes quite early on in the course as horses are finding their position and rhythm.

Fence four and 20

Height: 4ft 10 inches (1.47 m)

Fence five and 21

Height: 5ft (1.52 m)

Fence six and 22 – Becher’s Brook

Height: 5ft (1.52 m), with the landing side six inches (15cm) to 10 inches (25cm) lower than the takeoff side.

The drop at this fence is prone to catching runners by surprise. The fence is named after Captain Martin Becher who fell there during the first Grand National and took shelter in the small brook running along the landing side of the fence while the remainder of the field tackled the obstacle.

Fence seven and 23 – Foinavon

Height: 4ft 6 inches (1.37 m)

One of the smallest fences on the course, it was named in 1984 after the 1967 winner who avoided a mêlée at the fence to go on and win the race at outside odds of 100/1.

Fence eight and 24 – Canal Turn

Height: 5ft (1.52 m)

This fence features sharp 90-degree left turn immediately after landing.

Fence nine and 25 – Valentine’s Brook

Height: 5ft (1.52 m) with a 5ft 6 inches (1.68 m) brook

The fence was originally known as the Second Brook but was renamed after a horse named Valentine was reputed to have jumped the fence hind legs first in 1840.

Fence 10 and 26

Height: 5ft (1.52 m)

Fence 11 and 27 – open ditch

Height: 5ft (1.52 m), with a 6ft (1.83 m) ditch on the takeoff side

Fence 12 and 28 – ditch

Height: 5ft(1.52 m), with a 5ft 6 inches (1.68 m) ditch on the landing side

Fence 13 and 29

Height: 4ft 7 inches (1.40 m)

Fence 14 and 30

Height: 4ft 6 inches (1.37 m)

This is the last fence on the final lap.

On the first lap of the race, runners then continue around the course to negotiate two fences which are only jumped once. They are:

Fence 15 – The Chair

Height: 5ft 2 inches (1.57 m), preceded by a 6ft (1.83 m) wide ditch

This is one of the most popular jumps on the course for spectators, when they are permitted in normal pre-Covid years due to its sheer size and the fact it is located in front of the main grandstand.

Fence 16 – Water Jump

Height: 2ft 6 inches (0.76 m)Originally a stone wall in the very early runnings of the Grand National.

On the final lap, after the 30th fence, the remaining runners bear right, avoiding The Chair and Water Jump, to head onto a run-in to the finishing post. The run-in is not perfectly straight and is known as the ‘elbow’. It is one of the longest run-ins in the United Kingdom at 494 yards (452m) and can see dreams made and shattered.

You may also be interested in…

Who will win the Grand National? Have a flutter on your pick here…

Who will win the Grand National when the race gets underway today (10 April) at 5.15pm 2021? Here’s the full

How to watch Grand National 2025 live streams and TV coverage: your armchair viewing guide

Which race? Which day? What time? The full Grand National meeting racecard

On 8 April 2021 the Grand National meeting gets underway at Aintree Racecourse. Here we bring you a full day-by-day

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Keep up-to-date with all the latest news and updates from the Grand National meeting via the Horse & Hound website and read the full report in the 15 April issue of the magazine

Would you like to read Horse & Hound’s independent journalism without any adverts? Join Horse & Hound Plus today and you can read all articles on HorseandHound.co.uk completely ad-free

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Bob Champion will embark on a 191-mile anniversary walk from Aintree next month, 40 years on from his Grand National win aboard Aldaniti.

The #Bobs40For40Challenge walk is in aid of the Bob Champion Cancer Trust and he will leave Aintree on 11 April, the day after the 2021 Randox Health Grand National.

The 191-mile route represents the 191 days from his diagnosis on 14 July 1979, to receiving the all-clear on 31 January 1980. It will feature 40 stops, all connected with his life story and representing every year from 1981 to 2021, finishing at Findon, where Aldaniti was trained.

“My story 40 years ago gave hope to people around the world fighting cancer,” said Bob. “I have dedicated my life to the cause and hope that people will support me again on this anniversary walk for the good work my trust does on a daily basis.”

The stops include Tom Dascombe, Dan Skelton and Jonjo O’Neill’s yards, as well as places of interest such as Barkfold Manor, where Aldaniti lived in retirement and is buried.

At each place, Bob will walk a circuit, or up and down the gallops, and he will be joined by people along the way. Members of the public can also apply to be sponsored to join him on certain days, in line with Covid restrictions.

Martin Tedham, chairman of the pharmaceutical industry partner Wasdell Group which is supporting Bob and also sponsors Jonjo O’Neill Racing, added: “Bob Champion’s story of surviving cancer and the amazing contribution he has since made towards funding research into the disease is legendary.

Continues below…

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The story of Bob Champion and Aldaniti’s comeback from serious illness and injury is the stuff of legend – and

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“I have spent decades working closely with partners who develop life-saving drugs for serious illnesses, and in the spare time that I have, I love nothing better than dropping into Jackdaws Castle to see the great progress my friends Jonjo and Jacqui are making with my racehorses, including Sky Pirate who won at this year’s Cheltenham festival, so I feel an affinity with what Bob is doing.

“I sadly lost my wife Carol to cancer three years ago, and of course Jonjo has also had to deal with cancer in the past, so it’s an absolute privilege to support Bob in such a worthy endeavour.”

To donate, visit Bob’s JustGiving page.

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade to access our H&H Plus online service which brings you breaking news as it happens as well as other benefits.

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Dual Randox Health Grand National winner Tiger Roll heads the 106 Grand National entries for 2021 as he aims for a third victory in the iconic race, after the 2020 race was cancelled owing to the coronavirus pandemic.

Grand National runners 2021

In 2019, the Gordon Elliott-trained 10-year-old became the first horse since Red Rum (victor in 1973, 1974 and 1977) to win back-to-back Grand Nationals. A victory in this year’s race would equal Red Rum’s total of three.

Tiger Roll is currently 16/1 to land the Aintree feature race and is one of 15 Elliott-trained runners on the entries list, which was released today (Wednesday, 3 February).

Elliott also has Grade One winners Delta Work and Presenting Percy among his entries.

2019 Welsh National champion and 2020 Virtual Grand National winner Potters Corner (Christian Williams) — part-owned by Wales rugby union international Jonathan Davies — is also among those aiming for glory on 10 April.

Jessica Harrington’s 2019 runner-up, Magic Of Light, is on the list, while three-time Betfair Chase winner Bristol De Mai for trainer Nigel Twiston-Davies is also entered.

Ladbrokes Trophy winner Cloth Cap (Jonjo O’Neill) and impressive Welsh Grand National winner Secret Reprieve (Evan Williams) are also on the initial list.

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‘The people’s horse’: Tiger Roll’s phenomenal back-to-back Grand National wins

The Gordon Elliott-trained little hero with a big heart won his second Grand National today (6 April) in emphatic style

The current Champion trainer, Nicky Henderson holds the most entries of any British trainer with six, including Gold Cup runner-up Santini.

A final total of 40 horses will go to post on the day due to safety restrictions on the number of runners in the race.

The weights will be revealed on 16 February and the full list of Grand National runners entered in alphabetical order is:

A Toi Phil, 11, Gary Moore

Acapella Bourgeois, 11, Willie Mullins

Achille, 11, Venetia Williams

Aforementioned, eight, Gordon Elliott

Agusta Gold, eight, Margaret Mullins

Ajas, seven, David Cottin

Al Roc, 10, Dr Richard Newland

Alpha des Obeaux,11, Gordon Elliott

Ami Desbois,11, Graeme McPherson

Anibale Fly, 11, Tony Martin

Another Venture, 10, Kim Bailey

Any Second Now, nine, Ted Walsh

Articulum, 11, Terence O’Brien

Aso, 11, Venetia Williams

Balko des Flos, 10, Henry de Bromhead

Ballyoptic, 11, Nigel Twiston-Davies

Battleoverdoyen, eight, Gordon Elliott

Beau Bay, 10, Dr Richard Newland

Bellow Mome, 10, Willie Mullin

Bellshill, 11, Sandy Thomson

Beware The Bear, 11, Nicky Henderson

Blaklion, 12, Dan Skelton

Brahma Bull, 10, Willie Mullins

Bristol de Mai, 10, Nigel Twiston-Davies

Burrows Saint, eight, Willie Mullins

Cabaret Queen, nine, Willie Mullins

Canelo, eight, Alan King

Cap du Nord, eight, Christian Williams

Captain Drake, eight, Harry Fry

Champagne Classic, 10, Gordon Elliott

Chris’s Dream, nine, Henry de Bromhead

Class Conti, nine, Willie Mullins

Cloth Cap, nine, Jonjo O’Neill

Crievehill, nine, Nigel Twiston-Davies

Death Duty, 10, Gordon Elliott

Definitly Red, 12, Brian Ellison

Deise Aba, eight, Philip Hobbs

Delta Work, eight, Gordon Elliott

Discorama, eight, Paul Nolan

Double Shuffle, 11, Tom George

Dounikos, 10, Gordon Elliott

Easysland, seven, David Cottin

Fagan, 11, Alex Hales

Farclas, seven. Gordon Elliott

Fingerontheswitch, 11, Neil Mulholland

Fitzhenry, nine, Paul Nolan

Flying Angel, 10, Nigel Twiston-Davies

Give Me A Copper, 11, Paul Nicholls

Glen Forsa, nine, Mick Channon

Golan Fortune, nine, Phil Middleton

Gold Present, 11, Nicky Henderson

Hear No Evil, nine, Noel Kelly

Hogan’s Height, 10, Jamie Snowden

Hold The Note, seven, Mick Channon

Jerrysback, nine, Philip Hobbs

Jett, 10, Jessica Harrington

Kauto Riko, 10, Tom Gretton

Keeper Hill, 10, Warren Greatrex

Kimberlite Candy, nine, Tom Lacey

Lake View Lad, 11, Nick Alexander

Le Breuil, nine, Ben Pauling

Lord du Mesnil, eight, Richard Hobson

Magic of Light, 10, Jessica Harrington

Milan Native, eight, Gordon Elliott

Minella Times, eight, Henry de Bromhead

Minellacelebration, 11, Katy Price

Mister Malarky, eight, Colin Tizzard

Monbeg Notorious, 10, Gordon Elliott

Moyhenna, nine, Denis Hogan

Musical Slave, eight, Philip Hobbs

Ok Corral, 11, Nicky Henderson

One Style, 11, Venetia Williams

Plan of Attack, eight, Henry de Bromhead

Potters Corner, 11, Christian Williams

Presenting Percy, 10, Gordon Elliott

Prime Venture, 10, Evan Williams

Pym, eight, Nicky Henderson

Roaring Bull, eight, Gordon Elliott

Robin des Foret, 11, Willie Mullins

Rocky’s Treasure, 10, Kim Bailey

Run Wild Fred, seven, Gordon Elliott

Saint Xavier, nine, Richard Hobson

Santini, nine, Nicky Henderson

Saturnas, 10, Willie Mullins

Secret Reprieve, seven, Evan Williams

Shantou Flyer, 11, Paul Nicholls

Shattered Love, 10, Gordon Elliott

Some Neck, 10, John McConnell

Soupy Soups, 10, Neil Mulholland

St Barts, seven, Philip Hobbs

Storm Control, eight, Kerry Lee

Sub Lieutenant, 12, Georgie Howell

Takingrisks, 12, Nicky Richards

Talkischeap, nine, Alan King

The Conditional, nine, David Bridgwater

The Hollow Ginge, eight, Nigel Twiston-Davies

The Jam Man, eight, Ronan McNally

The Long Mile, seven, Philip Dempsey

The Storyteller, 10, Gordon Elliott

Tiger Roll, 11, Gordon Elliott

Tout Est Permis eight, Noel Meade

Treacysenniscorthy, nine, Robert Widger

Valtor, 12, Nicky Henderson

Vieux Lion Rouge, 12, David Pipe

Yala Enki, 11, Paul Nicholls

Yorkhill, 11, Sandy Thomson

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A popular racehorse who delighted fans over his nine-season career on the track is shining in his new venture in the dressage arena.

The versatile Bear’s Affair, bought as a three-year-old by George and Anne Barlow who still own him, scored over hurdles, fences and most recently added the 2018 Aintree Foxhunters’ title to his CV following the delayed outcome of the Balnaslow cobalt case.

He is now, aged 14, enjoying a new career in his retirement with Samara Swan.

Samara, who has had former racehorses before, was looking for another when a friend mentioned she had one in for retraining that might suit.

She went to try him, loved him, and in December 2019 Bear’s Affair arrived to see if he would enjoy a new job after racing.

“He loves to learn — he is just like a sponge and his lateral work is already there. If you could bottle [the qualities] he has, you would be on to a winner. He is amazing,” said Samara, adding that he is “loving” his new career.

“He has a really quick brain, so we have to keep him occupied upstairs. He doesn’t feel his age at all to sit on; he can put out a trot that will challenge a German stallion; his canter is incredible and he is just such an athlete. He can collect, he is supple, and he finds it all so easy. It is now just a case of time and not rushing him.

“It is all credit to him and I feel so privileged to have him.”

She added the good parts of his work are “very good” and they are now working on keeping his brain occupied, while also ensuring that they take his retraining very much at the horse’s pace.

Aintree proved a particularly happy hunting ground, serving as the venue for four of his 10 victories under Rules, and is fittingly where he has been enjoying much of his new career between the white boards. The pair have qualified for the Area Festivals at novice silver level, which will also take them back to Aintree in February.

Samara, who trains with Charlotte Thomas, added the grounding racehorses such as Bear’s Affair are given is a great foundation to work from when they go on to life after racing.

“There is not a malicious bone in his body; if he was a human I would probably marry him,” laughed Samara, adding Bear’s Affair has a new best friend in a Welsh pony named Duncan.

“His whole attitude is bright-eyed, smiley and pleased to see you. He is really cuddly and is the easiest horse to do; I don’t even need a headcollar to plait him and he is exactly the same when we get to a show. He is just the easiest horse to do in the stable and he loves to have his carrots at bedtime.

“He is spoiled and he knows it, but he gives back double the amount. He is the sort of horse that gives you absolutely everything and will do anything you ask of him.”

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The son of Presenting spent six successful years with champion trainer Nicky Henderson before moving to Philip Rowley’s Shropshire base for the final three years of his eminent racing career, where he was a familiar sight on the point-to-point and hunter chase circuit. He was retired aged 13 in May 2019 after finishing third at Tabley.

“He was a star,” said jockey Alex Edwards, who rode him in all 17 starts since the horse’s move to the Rowley team. “We had some great days with him, with the highlight being a great performance in the Aintree Foxhunters’.”

Owner Mrs Barlow added Bear’s Affair has always been — and continues to be — “such a fabulous horse”.

“He has always been a pleasure to own and when in training with Nicky he used to come home for a break for Christmas and New Year and then go back for the spring campaign,” she said. “I always felt he knew it was us when we went to see him saddled up at the races!”

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Ponies from an urban riding school have found a luxury “evacuation” home with the chairman of Aintree racecourse.

The racecourse already has a close working relationship with Park Palace Ponies — an innovative set-up operating out of an 19^th century theatre in the Dingle, Liverpool.

The social enterprise was established three years ago and has become a treasured part of the Toxteth community. Its eight ponies usually graze on nearby council land but as Covid-19 lockdown was enforced, its voluntary directors were keen to ensure they could be safely cared for.

“One of the problems we faced was that we wanted to be able to pay our staff and to do that, we had to furlough them, which is a really difficult situation when it comes to animal care,” said director Bridget Griffin.

“Other than the staff, we have five voluntary directors and most of them are in their 60s. To turn out we have to walk down a main road in the city and we usually do it in pairs and it wouldn’t have been safe.

“Luckily the phone rang just at the right minute and it was Rose Paterson from Aintree offering to take some ponies in.”

Two ponies have gone to Rose and another two to her neighbour in Shropshire, while the remaining four ponies are with the Porter family in Stockport, who are neighbours of one of the school’s instructors.

“It really takes the weight off your shoulders, as they have said ‘we will treat them as our own’, which is exactly what you want to hear as a horse owner,” Bridget added. “At least you know that even if people fall ill, they are in a field with access to water and shelter and will be fine.”

She said the ponies had been settling in well in their new homes.

“Where Bobby and Kev are is actually quite posh — we were sent a picture of them next to a tennis court which is a bit different from the middle of the Dingle,” she said.

“I was also sent a picture of Will, who is with the Porters, trying to walk into the conservatory.”

Park Palace Ponies works a lot with local schools and has previously joined forces with Aintree on a number of initiatives.

“There’s a perception that because you live in a city, you can’t have a job with horses and we want to change that perception,” said Bridget.

“Aintree is also focused on having bonds with the community and although the [Grand National meeting] is as a big event locally, the races are still seen as posh and we want people to know that everyone can go and be involved.

“Other people feel that you can go to the races but they wouldn’t be able to go near a horse or learn to ride. By working with Aintree, we’re trying to cross over the two.”

Continues below…

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Every year Park Palace Ponies runs a learn to ride course, which culminates with a graduation ceremony. Last summer this was hosted in a suite at Aintree with the children getting to meet 2012 Grand National winner Neptune Collonges, as well as touring the course and weighing rooms.

“As well as children coming to us, we have also been going into schools to teach about horses, with the lessons being joined up with the science syllabus,” said Bridget. “Our next event was going to be a walk in March co-organised with Aintree, with Ruby and Katie Walsh as well as Neptune Collonges as guests. We were going to walk to local schools and give presentations on how we were all working together but it has had to be postponed.

“Hopefully we will get to reschedule — we want to build a relationship to Aintree in the community and for kids to understand that horses are normal and that if they want to be a jockey, it doesn’t mean they can’t just because they come from a city.”

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With this year’s Grand National abandoned due to the coronavirus pandemic, H&H takes a look back at some memorable Aintree heros.

2018/19 – Tiger Roll

The National Hunt star raced into the history books in 2019 when winning back-to-back Grand Nationals. Trained by Gordon Elliott and owned by Michael O’Leary’s Gigginstown Stud, the diminutive gelding, who was bred to be a Flat racehorse, claimed the impressive double under Davy Russell.

2001 – Red Marauder

The year when foot-and-mouth disease wreaked havoc with racing fixtures with the Cheltenham Festival abandoned, the Grand National went ahead, but was run in terrible weather conditions owing to high winds and rain. Only four horses completed the race successfully – two having been remounted – due in part to the bad conditions and because of loose horse Paddy’s Return causing mayhem at the Canal Turn. The 33/1 chance Red Marauder was victorious under Richard Guest.

2009 – Mon Mome

Ridden by Liam Treadwell and trained by Venetia Williams, Mon Mome won the Grand National at a huge price of 100/1 and was the largest-priced winner since 1967.

2015 – Many Clouds

The popular chaser, who was trained by Oliver Sherwood, helped jockey Leighton Aspell to win back-to-back Grand Nationals. Sadly, in January 2017, the gelding collapsed and died after crossing the finish line at Cheltenham, having narrowly beaten Thistlecrack to the post.

2010 – Don’t Push It

The JP McManus-owned and Jonjo O’Neill-trained gelding helped multiple champion jockey AP McCoy to his first Grand National win in 2010.

1973/74/77 – Red Rum

Without doubt the greatest horse to grace the Aintree turf, Red Rum loved the big fences at the Merseyside track and still holds the record for winning the Grand National on three occasions – two of which were consecutive. Jockey Brian Fletcher was on board for the first two victories, while Tommy Stack took the reins to win in 1977.

1997 – Lord Gyllene

Jockey Tony Dobbin partnered the Steve Brookshaw-trained Lord Gyllene to the rescheduled 1997 Grand National. That year’s renewal was postponed by two days following an IRA bomb threat on the initial Saturday.

1990 – Mr Frisk

The Kim Bailey-trained Mr Frisk won the 1990 contest under amateur jockey Marcus Armytage, who is now H&H’s racing correspondent and a writer for the Telegraph.

1967 – Foinavon

The 100/1 shot was the only horse to survive carnage at the 23rd fence, when the rest of the field either fell, refused or were hampered and brought down thanks to a loose horse. The outsider was ridden by journeyman jockey John Buckingham, and the fence was officially named after Foinavon in 1984 by Aintree Racecourse.

1981 – Aldaniti

Jockey Bob Champion and the Josh Gifford-trained gelding were victorious in 1981. The winning jockey was making a comeback having successfully battled cancer, while Aldaniti had also bounced back from injury.

Don’t miss the virtual Grand National, being shown on ITV on 4 April at 5pm.

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Aintree Racecourse has teamed up with The Guide Liverpool to create “A Grand Day In”, an alternative style award from the comfort of people’s homes, which will take place today (Friday, 3 April) – the day that would have been Ladies’ Day at the Randox Health Grand National Festival.

Owing to the coronavirus pandemic, Aintree’s gates will remain closed for the three-day festival, for the first time since the end of the Second World War.

There may not be any racing on but fashion fans can still enjoy getting dressed up and create their own version of Ladies’ Day at home. Why not show the judges how you’d be looking if you were visiting Aintree this year, and give yourself the chance to win an exciting prize? Each winner will receive four hospitality tickets for Ladies’ Day at the 2021 Grand National meeting.

There are two categories: best female and best male, and judging will take place on the afternoon of Monday, 6 April, by Jay Hynd and Gemma Cutting from The Guide Liverpool – who will announce the winners on Facebook that day at 5pm.

Entries for this unique style award open at 10am on Friday, 3 April, and will close at 12noon on Monday, 6 April.

“You might not be able to be at the races but we still want to celebrate your amazing sense of style and create a little bit of fun – where appropriate – at this difficult time for everyone,” Aintree Racecourse said in a statement.

“Take a picture of yourself in your full raceday outfit. We want to see your dress, bag, shoes and hat/fascinator, or if you’re a guy let’s see that amazing suit and shoes.

“If you don’t feel comfortable dressing up at the moment, that’s okay too. Why not take a flat-lay photo [lay out outfit on the floor instead of wearing]. As long as we can see the whole outfit, we’ll accept the entry.”

For more information on how to enter, click here.

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The new clerk of the course for Aintree has been revealed as Andrew Tulloch prepares to step down after 24 years.

Sulekha Varma, who has served in the role at four other Jockey Club courses and helped deliver the Grand National Festival for the past 10 years, will become the first woman to take on the position in early 2020.

Mr Tulloch has been at the helm while the course has undergone major changes and developments in the past quarter of a century.

He was fundamental in the £1.5m changes made to the Grand National course, fences and welfare facilities. He also co-ordinated the redevelopment of Aintree, including the building of a new parade ring, weighing room, media centre and stands.

Mr Tulloch also has a strong background in equestrian sport. He is a former director of Burghley Horse Trials and was central in founding the Aintree International Equestrian Centre (AIEC).

He will remain with Aintree in an advisory role and his new job is overseeing commercial activities at Bolesworth Estate — whose equestrian events include the Equerry Bolesworth International Horse Show, Equitop Bolesworth Young Horse Championships and the Theraplate Liverpool International Horse Show.

“Being responsible for the world-famous Grand National has been a privilege and I have enjoyed being involved with the development and innovation to ensure Aintree, and the Grand National, remain at the forefront of both equine and jockey safety, while protecting the unique character of the race,” he said, adding he is “looking forward to a fresh challenge” with Bolesworth.

“I am most grateful for the support and help received from the team at Aintree, my colleagues, owners, trainers, jockeys, press, the BHA and the other equestrian disciplines.”

Ms Varma, who has been racing manager and clerk of the course at Hamilton Park since 2016, will be responsible for all aspects of racing at Aintree, oversee the AIEC and be joint clerk of the course at Carlisle.

Since starting her career as a trainee at Haydock in 2009, she has also been clerk of the course at Nottingham, Market Rasen, Warwick and Huntingdon.

Ms Varma said she is sad to leave the “fantastic team” at Hamilton, but is “honoured” to be taking on her new role.

“While British racing has faced and will face challenges, I hope that Aintree will continue to be at the forefront of addressing many of those and showcasing our wonderful sport to an ever-wider audience,” she said.

Dickon White, north west regional director for the Jockey Club, added the organisation is delighted to welcome Ms Varma and thanked Mr Tulloch for his “dedication and undoubted passion for racing”.

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Multi-talented retired racehorse and Heythrop regular Kikos has topped the 2019 Ri-Dry Retraining of Racehorses (RoR) racing to hunting challenge.

The 17-year-old gelding’s career on the track spanned six years, winning four times under Rules for trainer Renee Robson. He finished his time in racing under the care of Kerry Lee, enjoying spins on the hunters’ chase circuit before switching to the hunting field.

Kikos, who is known for his “good manners and versatility” on the hunting field with owner/rider Amy Morgan, beat five other retrained racehorses to win the Meriel Tuffnell Trophy.

“Kikos has proven to be the most honest, calm, kind and generous hunter,” said Amy.

“I can lead my young son on his small pony, jump the biggest of our vale country up at the front of the field, stop and shut gates, jump the gates and walk across fields when 200 of our Saturday field are galloping. He is as well known for his sanity as he is for his tongue, which hangs out constantly!”

The pair also went home with a Ri-Dry waterproof jacket and a cash prize of £1,500, with the remaining £3,500 prize pot split between the five other finalists.

The six were whittled down through a selection process, which included a visit to watch each horse during the autumn hunting season by a member of the judging panel.

The finalists were judged on how well they have adapted to their second career at Aintree racecourse on 27 October in front of a racing crowd.

The challenge included jumping and negotiating obstacles they might find on a day’s hunting, before parading with hounds from the Holcombe Harriers.

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Mr Chippy and Suzie Dent from the Hurworth claimed the runner-up spot, with the Morpeth’s Newyearsresolution and Amie Waugh in third.

“Congratulations are in order to all six finalists and in particular Amy and Kikos,” said RoR chief executive Di Arbuthnot.

“He is clearly a star, and not only in Amy’s eyes as his outstanding behaviour is recognised and appreciated by many, not least the judges today.

“All the horses were a credit to their connections and a big thank you to all involved, especially Aintree Racecourse, our sponsors Ri-Dry and our fantastic team of judges.”

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A team of cyclists will undertake the 150-mile journey from Cheltenham to Aintree to raise money to fund mental health support training in memory of a talented young rider.

Tim Jones was 17 years old when he took his own life earlier this year. The teenager held his amateur jockey licence and worked for trainer Micky Hammond. He also competed in eventing, including riding at Badminton’s Mitsubishi Motors Cup championships earlier this year.

His father, Simon, launched an appeal to raise money for Racing Welfare to spend on training those working in the industry in mental health first aid (news, 26 September).

Mental Health First Aid England’s training gives people practical skills, knowledge and confidence to help them spot signs of mental ill health in those around them and to offer support as a first point of contact.

“The response to our campaign, launched in memory of Tim has been overwhelming,” said Mr Jones.

“With the money raised, we now start the job of delivering the training that will help us realise our initial ambition of a trained mental health first aider in each yard.

“It is wonderful that our generous donors can now see how their money is being used and how the welfare of our racing colleagues is being supported.”

Mr Jones is part of the team taking on the sponsored bike ride include will pedal from Cheltenham racecourse in Gloucestershire to Aintree racecourse in Merseyside on 2 April, the first day of the 2020 Randox Health Grand National Festival.

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The Liverpool venue will also host a fundraising event in Tim’s memory on the day, where a painting of the young rider will be auctioned.

The painting (pictured top), by artist Diane Marshall, is of Tim riding on Middleham’s gallops through the snow and was presented to Mr Jones on Saturday (19 October) at Market Rasen.

Around £15,000 has already been raised in Tim’s memory and some of this money has already gone towards running a training course by Mental Health First Aid England for racing staff in Middleham.

For more information, visit: https://www.justgiving.com/s-jones38

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Aintree stalwart Saint Are will head to Royal Windsor Horse Show this week (8 to 12 May) hot off the back of his first affiliated success.

“Arnie”, who ran in five Grand Nationals and is owned by the Are Saint syndicate, retired from racing in 2018 and was turned away for a holiday before joining Rebecca Court and Justine Armstrong-Small’s yard last summer.

After winning his first showing rosette — a red one — at an unaffiliated event at Brook Farm in February, Arnie made his affiliated debut at Keysoe on 29 April.

He finished fourth in the novice riding horse class with Justine, before winning the Jockey Club novice Retraining of Racehorses (RoR) class and standing RoR champion later that day with Rebecca.

Rebecca said he “took the whole day in his stride”.

“Since Brook Farm he has been continuing his schooling and groundwork, lots of hacking still and some ride judge practice for his first affiliated show,” she told H&H.

“We’ve done lots of practice riding with others in the school and standing still, which is often quite hard for an ex-racehorse, but he’s so bright he’s quickly learnt what to do.”

She added producer Will Morton will lead him in-hand in the RoR class at Windsor as they want to give the horse experience of that sort of environment, without rushing him to do a ridden class.

“He has been over to sit on him and practise the in-hand and said he was phenomenal to sit on — he has such power and elevation,” said Rebecca.

“We asked Will to lead him at Windsor as he’s very experienced running horses in hand, having competed in the Cuddy at Horse of the Year Show, and can keep up running alongside him to keep up with Arnie’s big free-moving trot!”

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The 13-year-old, trained by Tim Vaughan and most recently by Tom George, was an Aintree specialist with 13 starts at the track and wins in the Grade One Sefton Novices’ Hurdle in 2011 and the John Smith’s Handicap Chase over the Mildmay course the following year.

Arnie was runner-up to Many Clouds in the 2015 Grand National and third behind One For Arthur and Cause Of Causes in 2017.

His final start came in the big race in 2018, where he was brought down at the Chair.

After his holiday, Rebecca and Justine have taken his re-education “very gradually” to give him time to adjust and fill out his 17hh frame.

“We aren’t in any rush with him and he will get all the time he needs,” said Rebecca earlier this year.

The RoR in-hand class is scheduled for 1.30pm on Wednesday (8 May) in the Adelaide arena.

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Retrained Grand National winner Pineau De Re will return to Aintree today to parade for racegoers.

The 16-year-old gelding, who triumphed in the iconic race under Leighton Aspell in 2014 (pictured below, green and gold colours), heads the nine-strong line-up in the Retraining of Racehorses (RoR) parade today (4 April).

Formerly trained by Dr Richard Newland, “Pineau” ran his final race at Uttoxeter in 2016 before retiring from the track.

He was retrained Dr Newland’s daughter, Amelia, and Lizzie Doolittle. He made his eventing debut with Lizzie at Aston-le-Walls in April 2017 and is thriving in his second career.

Pineau will be joined by five other former Grand National Festival winners in the parade ring at 12.15pm for the event, sponsored by the Peter O’Sullevan Charitable Trust.

These include three-time Topham Chase victor Always Waining, El Dancer, Peddlers Cross, Walkon and Grade One Mildmay Novices’ Chase winner Saphir Du Rheu.

“Saffi” delighted crowds on the opening day of the Cheltenham Festival, taking part in the RoR parade before leading in Champion Hurdle victor Espoir D’Allen to the winners’ enclosure.

The former H&H cover star is also enjoying an active second career with Charlotte Alexander since his racing days came to an end in April 2018, taking part in his first affiliated event at Aston-le-Walls in March and relishing open team chasing with Team Rideaway and the Boring Gorings.

Charlotte said “Saffi” has also turned into a “super hunter”, following the Beaufort hounds.

“He will jump everything from the stiff park railings to hairy hedges. He is my ‘show off’ horse,” she said.

“He is very athletic, bold and intelligent. Going forward the aim is to do some eventing. We recently completed our first BE100 class and he is showing a great aptitude for dressage and showjumping, as well as being a machine across country.”

The RoR parade line-up is completed by The Queen’s prolific showing star Barbers Shop, Wild West, Cloudy Too, who was the 2017 supreme champion at the RoR National Championships.

Di Arbuthnot, chief executive of RoR, said: “There is a great line-up for this year’s Aintree parade featuring some wonderful examples of the racehorse’s adaptability and versatility.

“The team at Aintree are great supporters and promoters of the charity and we would also like to thank the Peter O’Sullevan Charitable Trust for their most generous sponsorship.”

The full line-up is as follows:

1. Always Waining (hunting and showing) ridden by Rebecca Francis

18-year-old by Unfuwain, formerly trained by Peter Bowen

2. Barbers Shop (showing) ridden by Katie Jerram Hunnable Is her surname hyphenated?

17-year-old by Saddlers’ Hall, formerly trained by Nicky Henderson

3. Cloudy Too (hunting) ridden by Carolyn Woods

13-year-old by Cloudings, formerly trained by Sue Smith

4. El Dancer (hunting and eventing) ridden by Clemmie Hoskins

15-year-old by Seattle Dancer, formerly trained by Lucy Wadham.

5. Peddlers Cross (showjumping and showing) ridden by Brian Storey

14-year-old by Oscar, formerly trained by Donald McCain

6. Pineau De Re (eventing) ridden by Lizzie Doolittle

16-year-old by Maresca Sorrento, formerly trained by Dr Richard Newland

7. Saphir Du Rheu (team chasing and eventing) ridden by Charlotte Alexander

10-year-old by Al Namix, formerly trained by Paul Nicholls

8. Walkon (hunting) ridden by Catherine Warner

14-year-old by Take Risks, formerly trained by Alan King

9. Wild West (showing) ridden by Lizzie Harris

11-year-old by Galileo, formerly trained by Jonjo O’Neill

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Aintree specialist Saint Are has made a winning debut in the show ring after retiring from racing last year.

The 13-year-old ran in the Grand National five times and had a total of 13 starts at Aintree.

He is now enjoying learning the ropes in his second career with Justine Armstrong-Small and Rebecca Court, who retrained the 2017 Retraining of Racehorses (RoR) horse of the year Beware Chalk Pit.

His first win was at a local showing show at Brook Farm in Essex and he also finished second on his dressage debut with a score of 70% in January.

Trained by Tim Vaughan and most recently by Tom George, Saint Are (“Arnie”) won the the Grade One Sefton Novices’ Hurdle in 2011 and the John Smith’s Handicap Chase over the Mildmay fences the following year. His best results in the National came in 2015, where he finished second to Many Clouds, and 2017, where he finished third to victor One For Arthur and runner-up Cause Of Causes.

He was brought down at the Chair in his final start in the race last year, before falling again while loose later in the race and was attended to on course.

“After being brought down at the Chair and giving everyone a bit of a scare he returned to trainer Tom George’s yard to be let down and the turned away for the summer holiday,” Rebecca told H&H, adding he joined them in August.

“We have bought him back into work very slowly, spending the first three months only hacking him really — gradually through lots of ground work and varied activities we have built up his schooling and he is coming along really well.

“He is extremely intelligent and immediately understands what you are asking him, he is very kind and willing and enjoys having tasks to focus on.”

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She added it will take time for Arnie’s muscles to develop, his frame to fill out to his 17hh hunter stamp and for him to settle into his new role, but “all the early signs are promising”.

“We aren’t in any rush with him and he will get all the time he needs,” said Rebecca, adding his owners, the Are Saint Syndicate, are all keen to be part of his journey from racehorse to riding horse.

“He is a phenomenal sit on, a huge stride and so much power he just floats across the ground. He’s also go great presence; a key factor for show horses!”

Arnie will now do some dressage, clinics, training classes and possibly some novice RoR or novice hunter classes over the spring, with the hope that he will also compete in lightweight hunter classes eventually.

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The Grade One-winning Bristol De Mai will be the top weight for the 2019 Randox Health Grand National carrying 11st 10Ib, it was revealed today (12 February).

Bristol De Mai, who is owned by Simon Munir and Isaac Souede, is one of nine entries for dual National-winning trainer Nigel Twiston-Davies in the Aintree feature race on 6 April. The eight-year-old grey gelding gained his second Grade One Betfair Chase at Haydock Park in November, when he beat Gold Cup hero Native River by four lengths.

Nigel’s big Aintree successes came courtesy of Earth Summit in 1998 and Bindaree in 2002. The Gloucestershire-based handler also has hopefuls in Go Conquer (10st 13lb) and Blaklion (10st 12lb) among his nine 2019 entries.

The 2018 victor Tiger Roll, who is trained by Gordon Elliott, has been given 11st 1lb. He will bid to become the first dual winner of the race since the legendary Red Rum.

Tiger Roll is the 20/1 joint-favourite alongside Colin Tizzard’s Welsh Grand National winner Elegant Escape (11st 4lb).

Gordon — also successful with Silver Birch in 2007 — accounts for 22 of the record 47 Irish-trained entries. His team of 2019 National runners include Cheltenham Festival winner The Storyteller (11st 3lb) and General Principle (10st), winner of the 2018 Irish Grand National.

“It was fairly straightforward to do the weights,” said British Horseracing Authority handicapper Martin Greenwood, who framed the weights for the first time this year. “I tried to treat it like any other race, while bearing in mind there has to be some digression when needed.

“Bristol De Mai heads the weights and his rating has been compressed by 5lb, as I thought it was better to have a horse at the top of the handicap whose rating was slightly out of kilter.

“Tiger Roll is up 9lb from his mark for last year’s Grand National and Pleasant Company [is up] 7lb. I have them both on the same mark for what they were rated after last year’s Grand National. Tiger Roll confirmed that rating in the Cross-Country Handicap at Cheltenham in November. Pleasant Company has been a bit disappointing in a few runs since, but I think the Aintree fences will bring out the best in him, so that is why I left him on that mark,” he added.

“I think there are several interesting runners like Vintage Clouds and Elegant Escape. The latter is towards the top of the betting, he is an improving horse and was a good second to Frodon at Cheltenham last time out — so you can see why he is one of the more fancied horses.”

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The 2017 winner One For Arthur, who is trained by Lucinda Russell, was unable to defend his crown last year due to injury, but will return with an allotted weight of 10st 10lb.

No mare has won the Grand National since Nickel Coin in 1951. The four female contenders for 2019 are Shattered Love (Gordon Elliott, 10st 10lb), a dual Grade One-winning novice over fences last season, National Hunt Chase runner-up Ms Parfois (Anthony Honeyball, 10st 2lb), Magic Of Light (Jessica Harrington, 10st 7lb) and Baie Des Iles (Ross O’Sullivan, 9st 12lb).

With a prize-fund of £1million, the Grand National is the most valuable jump race across the globe, over 4m2f and 30 fences, and will take place at 5.15pm on Saturday, 6 April.

“The countdown to the 172nd running of the world’s greatest and most valuable chase begins in earnest today, with the unveiling of the weights,” said John Baker, Aintree’s managing director.

“Our thanks go to Martin Greenwood for framing the weights for the first time in 2019. The entries look very strong, with a record Irish-trained presence, and we look all set for an outstanding race.”

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A 20-year-old ex-racehorse proved age is just a number by taking victory in the Retraining of Racehorses (RoR) racing to hunting challenge.

Kasilia was the eldest of the six horses in the final at Aintree on Sunday (28 October).

The finalists took part in a series of challenges in front of the racing crowd at Aintree’s Countryside Day.

They faced jumps and obstacles that they would come across on a day’s hunting and paraded with the Holcombe Harriers.

First place went to Kasilia, ridden by Amy Brown, who ran more than 30 times under Rules and in point-to-points winning once. He started hunting 10 years ago and still enjoys following hounds at least once a week.

Amy, who whips-in for the Berwickshire, described the gelding as “absolutely the perfect hunter”.

The combination were awarded the Meriel Tufnell Trophy, a Ri-Dry waterproof jacket and a cash prize of £3,500, which is split between Amy and the hunt.

The runner-up spot went to The Friary, ridden by Struan Wilson from the Tynedale, with Wee Bertie and Chris Thomson from the Ashford Valley Tickham in third.

The judging panel consisted of Hopper Cavendish, Tockie McKie and was chaired by Jonathan Clark.

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“Congratulations are in order to all six finalists and in particular Amy and Kasilia,” said RoR chief executive Di Arbuthnot.

“Theirs is a lovely story and one of a racehorse going on to enjoy a lengthy, active and very fulfilling second career.

“All the horses were a credit to their connections and a big thank you to all involved, especially Aintree racecourse and our fantastic team of judges.”

Johnny Mullen (Becky Morby, Wilton), Kikos (Amy Morgan, Heythrop) and Nikola (Margaret Morris, South Notts) were the other three combinations to make the final.

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Cheltenham Gold Cup winner Don Cossack heads record entries for the 2018 Retraining of Racehorses (RoR) Goffs UK National Championships this week.

The gelding, formerly trained by Gordon Elliott, won the racehorse to riding horse class at Dublin Horse Show this month with Louise Lyons.

The 11-year-old will be competed by Louise at Aintree, which is where he recorded a 26-length victory in the 2015 Melling Chase under AP McCoy.

Aintree specialist Always Waining, the only horse to win the Topham Chase three times (2010, 2011, 2012), is among the other top names entered.

The former Peter Bowen-trained gelding, 17, is entered for both showing and jumping classes.

Other high profile horses include Carlito Brigante, Franchoek, Noland, Possol, Time For Rupert, Times Up, Namibian, Ransom Note and Quadrille.

Cheltenham Gold Cup and dual Champion Chase-winning jockey Nico de Boinville will be one of three judges tasked with awarding the title of supreme champion.

Nico will be joined by his wife, Serena, who has a background in showing and is herself a breeder of Connemara ponies, and trainer Jonathan Geake, also an experienced judge and breeder.

“It is wonderful how this event continues to develop, attracting such quality, as well as quantity, in terms of the former racehorses entered,” said RoR chief executive Di Arbuthnot.

“However, a horse’s rating on the racetrack counts for nothing in the dressage, showing or jumping arena and that is one of the strengths of RoR’s competitions, it provides opportunities for all former racehorses to excel in a different discipline.”

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The 318 horses entered for the 90 classes at the championships ran a total of 5,000 times, winning 599 races under Rules.

All three previous supreme champions are entered — 2015 victor Jack The Giant is competing in dressage, 2016 winner Beware Chalk Pit is entered in in-hand showing classes and 2017 champion Wild West returns to defend his title.

“We would like to thank Goffs UK for their generous support, as well as the team at Aintree and all involved with making the six days happen,” added Di.

“The whole event has a wonderful feel-good factor and it is vastly rewarding to see the pleasure working with former racehorses gives people. It does not matter whether they are competing in the elite finals or just a regular class, the smiles on their faces say it all.”

The six-day event runs until 26 August at Aintree International Equestrian Centre.

Tony Williams, Goffs UK managing director, added it is “wonderful” to see the event grow in popularity each year.

“It’s important to Goffs UK, as a leading thoroughbred auction house, to see racehorses find new homes after their racing careers and it’s events like these that do so much to promote the retraining of racehorses,” he added.

The event is open to the public and admission is free.

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