5 Great Grand National Horses Of All Time

The Grand National Horse

The Grand National horse race is one of the world’s toughest and most prestigious events. Held each year at Aintree Racecourse in Liverpool, England, it has been a test of endurance and skill for both horse and rider since 1839. Over its course, many horses have made history through remarkable performances at this legendary race; here are five of them!

Red Rum – Winner In 1973, 1974 And 1977

Red Rum has long been considered among the greatest racehorses ever, particularly when discussing Grand National races in the 1970s. He won this challenging event three times! Even when he wasn’t victorious—in 1975 and 1976, for example—he still came in second! What is even more incredible is that Red Rum never fell during any of his races, running over 100 altogether without falling. Many believe Red Rum was instrumental in revitalizing interest in Grand National racing again.

He is the only horse ever to win three Grand National races, most famously in 1973 and 1977. Both victories were remarkable: in ’73, he made a fantastic comeback from 30 lengths down to beat Crisp just at the finish line! People still consider that one of the greatest races ever. Regardless, he carried an unbelievable weight and still won by 25 lengths! It was truly extraordinary!

Red Rum was truly remarkable on the Aintree course. Few other horses could rival his proficiency.

Tiger Roll – Winner In 2018 And 2019

Red Rum was an iconic horse of the 1970s, yet for 46 years, no horse could repeat his achievement of winning two consecutive Grand National races. Tiger Roll, however, came along and shocked all with an exciting win against Pleasant Company in 2018. A year later, he repeated that success, becoming Red Rum’s successor as the most loved racehorse.

Tiger Roll has quickly emerged as a new star of the Grand National. If not for the Covid-19 pandemic, he might even have gone for three consecutive wins! Tiger Roll’s victories in 2018 and 2019 put him into an exclusive group; only four horses have ever done so, and it may take a while before another horse joins this select club.

Mr Frisk, 1990 – The Fastest Ever Grand National Winner

 Mr. Frisk caused quite an uproar at the 1990 Grand National when he galloped around it in only 8 minutes and 47.8 seconds! Many were stunned as Mr. Frisk started fast and kept up the momentum until Uncle Merlin lost its rider, giving Mr. Frisk free reign over the second half of the race without anyone to challenge him!

Marcus Armytage was no ordinary jockey. He made history by becoming the last amateur to win this monumental race. What an accomplishment!

Foinavon, 1967 – Winner Of The Craziest Grand National In History

People will never forget the chaos at the 23rd fence during the Grand National of 1967, as most horses fell, refused to jump, or became caught up in it. It will always remain one of the greatest races ever held!

Foinavon was considered an unlikely winner with odds of 100-1, and even Cyril Watkins didn’t think his horse had much chance. Yet despite all expectations, Foinavon managed to beat out 40 competitors at Aintree Race Course despite facing significant problems on race day! Only 12 horses from 40 managed to beat Foinavon’s odds!

Foinavon was so far ahead before his rival horses realized he was running that they named the 23rd fence after him. This incredible win still leaves people speechless today! It became so famous that 1984 they even named Foinavon’s post after him!

Amberleigh House, 2004 – A Winner For The Nostalgic Racing Fan

Ginger McCain was renowned as an eccentric but highly successful trainer of Red Rum in the 1970s, yet almost 31 years had gone by since his last success at training a winner.

2004 saw Amberleigh House, an unlikely victor that no one expected, give everyone a taste of those glory days. His win was incredible- coming from behind at the final fence to surge ahead to secure an epic win that Merseyside fans will never forget.

Now, 31 years after his first triumph, McCain won his fourth championship title! This remarkable accomplishment places him among only three trainers ever to accomplish it – truly impressive!

FAQs

How long is the Grand National race?

The Grand National course measures approximately 4 miles and 514 yards (6.907 km). Its reputation is well known, as it features 30 jumps over two laps.

Can You Bet on the Grand National?

Betting on the Grand National is very popular. Bets can be placed using various platforms, including online betting sites; you can bet on the Grand National with Lottoland.

Who Can Enter the Grand National?

Entry for this race is open to horses aged seven years or older who have been given at least 120 ratings by the British Horseracing Authority and pass specific eligibility criteria to ensure safe and fair competition.

How can I watch the Grand National?

You have various ways of watching the Grand National. TV coverage will usually be provided, along with streaming online services like Watch ESPN or TuneIn Radio coverage of this prestigious horserace.