Every Brit knows that The Grand National is not just any horse race; it’s one of the most prestigious and exhilarating events in the world of equestrian sports. With a history that dates back to 1839, this challenging steeplechase at Aintree Racecourse in Liverpool has given us countless unforgettable moments and has honoured some of the most remarkable horses, jockeys, and trainers in horse racing history.
With this event taking place this year on Saturday 5th April, it is fair to assume that some punters will already be looking to get the latest betting promotions. No doubt they will also look to consider the horses’ breeding, age, weight and trainer, when we expect to see 34 top-rated horses ready to compete! With memorable wins in the past, we wanted to shine a spotlight on some of the legendary winners who have truly made their mark on the Grand National.
Red Rum – The Ultimate Grand National Champion
When it comes to legendary winners of the Grand National, you simply can’t overlook Red Rum. This incredible horse made history by winning the race three times—in 1973, 1974, and 1977—and he also snagged second place in both 1975 and 1976, showcasing an amazing level of consistency. Under the expert training of Ginger McCain, Red Rum became a national icon, known for his remarkable resilience and ability to conquer the challenging four-mile, 514-yard course. One of the most unforgettable moments in Grand National history was his stunning comeback in 1973, where he charged past Crisp in the final moments, despite being 30 lengths behind. Today, Red Rum’s name is forever linked to the race itself.
Manifesto – The Early Pioneer
Manifesto was truly one of the first shining stars of the Grand National. He took part in the race eight times from 1895 to 1904, clinching victory twice in 1897 and 1899, while also finishing in the top three on four other occasions. His remarkable durability and fierce determination earned him a legendary reputation during a time when racing conditions were particularly tough. Manifesto’s influence on the race helped pave the way for future champions.
Golden Miller – The Dual Champion
Golden Miller was a legendary horse known for his incredible prowess in steeplechasing. In 1934, he not only clinched the Grand National but also triumphed in the Cheltenham Gold Cup that same year. This remarkable achievement made him the only horse in history to pull off such a prestigious double. With Dorothy Paget as his owner, Golden Miller’s victories solidified his status as one of the greatest jump racehorses of all time.
Foinavon – The Ultimate Underdog Story
One of the most celebrated winners of the Grand National, Foinavon’s triumph in 1967 stands out as one of the most surprising moments in the race’s history. With odds of 100/1, he certainly wasn’t the favorite, but an astonishing pile-up at the 23rd fence gave him the chance to take the lead while the other horses struggled to get back on track. His knack for dodging the mayhem and staying upright turned him into an unexpected legend, and even today, the 23rd fence at Aintree proudly bears his name.
Aldaniti and Bob Champion – A Story of Triumph Over Adversity
Aldaniti’s victory in the 1981 Grand National is truly one of the most uplifting moments in horse racing history. This remarkable horse faced severe injuries that almost cut his career short, while his jockey, Bob Champion, bravely fought cancer to get back in the saddle. Their heartfelt win resonated with millions, and their incredible journey was later turned into the film Champions. Aldaniti’s success was about so much more than just winning a race; it stood as a powerful symbol of determination and bravery.
Aldaniti, Bob Champion & the 1981 Grand National
What a story, what a race 🏆 pic.twitter.com/JDqCKE8DZn
— Racing TV (@RacingTV) April 3, 2024
Mr. Frisk – The Record Breaker
In 1990, Mr. Frisk achieved a remarkable feat that still holds strong today—he completed the Grand National in an astonishing time of 8 minutes and 47.8 seconds. With jockey Marcus Armytage at the helm, Mr. Frisk dazzled everyone with his impeccable jumping and tireless speed, making it a truly unforgettable race. To this day, his record stands unchallenged, a testament to his incredible speed and stamina.
Don’t Push It – Tony McCoy’s Long-Awaited Victory
One of the standout Grand National winners in recent memory has to be Don’t Push It, who clinched the title in 2010 with the legendary jockey Tony McCoy in the saddle. Even though McCoy is one of the most accomplished jockeys in the sport, he had never managed to win the Grand National until that moment. With training from Jonjo O’Neill and ownership by J.P. McManus, Don’t Push It delivered the crowning glory of McCoy’s remarkable career, making that victory even sweeter.
Tiger Roll – The Modern-Day Legend
Tiger Roll has truly become a modern-day legend of the Grand National, clinching victory in consecutive years, 2018 and 2019. This remarkable feat made him the first horse to achieve back-to-back wins since the famous Red Rum. Under the expert training of Gordon Elliott and with the support of Gigginstown House Stud, Tiger Roll showcased an impressive mix of agility and stamina that set him apart from the competition. His win in 2019 was especially memorable, as he carried a heavier weight than the year before but still emerged victorious.
Unforgettable moments and iconic winners
The Grand National has given us so many unforgettable moments and iconic winners throughout its rich history. Whether it’s the incredible reign of Red Rum, the heartwarming tale of Foinavon, or the touching victory of Aldaniti and Bob Champion, every winner brings a special story that enhances the race’s timeless charm. As new champions rise, the Grand National will keep being a platform where legends are born, enchanting fans for years to come.