What Is the Grand National

The Grand National is one of the most famous horse races in the world and a defining event in British sporting culture. Every year millions of people tune in to watch the drama unfold at Aintree Racecourse near Liverpool. The Grand National is more than a race. It is a long standing tradition, a test of courage for horse and rider and a unique sporting spectacle that captures the attention of casual viewers and racing enthusiasts alike. The combination of its history, its unpredictable nature and its reputation for producing emotional and unforgettable moments has made the Grand National a major fixture on the UK sporting calendar.

This guide explains what the Grand National is in clear and accessible terms. You will learn how the race began, how it works, how long it is, what makes the Aintree course so challenging, which horses and jockeys have become legends, how betting works, what safety measures are used today and why the Grand National holds such a special place in UK culture. Whether you follow racing closely or simply watch the National once a year this guide will help you understand the event more deeply and enjoy it with confidence.

What the Grand National Is

The Grand National is a long distance steeplechase horse race held annually at Aintree Racecourse in Liverpool. It is run over a distance of around four and a quarter miles which makes it one of the longest and most challenging National Hunt races. Horses must jump thirty fences over two laps of the course which tests stamina, agility and bravery. The race usually features around thirty to forty runners which creates a crowded, high pressure environment.

The Grand National is known for dramatic twists because horses can fall, lose balance, recover unexpectedly or surge forward near the finish. This unpredictability is part of what makes the race so appealing to spectators. Even horses with long odds can sometimes win because the unique challenge of the course makes results difficult to predict.

How the Grand National Started

The origins of the Grand National date back to the early nineteenth century. The first official running took place in 1839 although unofficial versions existed earlier. The race was created as a long distance steeplechase designed to test endurance and jumping skill. Horses originally had to run across natural countryside obstacles before the race moved to a more permanent structure at Aintree.

From its early years the Grand National attracted public interest. Famous horses such as Lottery, the first official winner, and The Colonel, who won twice in the 1860s, helped build the race’s prestige. Over time the Grand National grew into a national event broadcast across the UK and later watched worldwide. Its history includes tales of heroic horses, dramatic weather conditions and unexpected victories which have helped make it a beloved tradition.

Who Takes Part in the Grand National

The Grand National features experienced National Hunt horses that compete over jumps. Horses must meet qualification criteria including age restrictions and previous form in long distance races. Only horses aged seven or older can enter and they must have completed certain recognised races to ensure they are capable of handling the difficulty of the course.

Jockeys are typically experienced riders who specialise in steeplechase races. The Grand National demands exceptional balance, skill and judgement because the large field and tall fences create a very intense environment. Trainers also play a crucial role because preparing a horse for the National requires months of conditioning and careful planning.

Owners range from professional racing operations to small syndicates and individual enthusiasts. Many people who have no involvement in racing during the year still take an interest in the horse they back for the Grand National.

How the Grand National Works

The Grand National follows a format that has remained consistent over many decades although safety modifications have been introduced.

The race distance

The race covers around four miles and two and a half furlongs. This makes it one of the longest major jump races in the world. Horses must maintain stamina for an extended period while surviving large fences and navigating the crowded field.

The fences

The Grand National fences are larger than those found in standard steeplechases. Famous obstacles such as Becher’s Brook, The Chair and the Canal Turn are known for their size and difficulty. Each fence has its own character which affects how horses and jockeys approach it.

Two laps of the course

The race consists of two circuits. Horses jump sixteen fences on the first lap then fourteen on the second because two fences are bypassed on the run in to the finish. The final stretch is long which allows for dramatic finishing runs.

Handicapping

The Grand National is a handicap race which means horses carry different weights depending on their ability. Better horses carry more weight to level the competition. This system helps create competitive and unpredictable races.

What Makes the Grand National Unique

Several factors make the Grand National distinct from other horse races.

The distance and stamina test

Very few races require such extreme stamina. Horses must maintain energy, rhythm and jumping ability for more than four miles which is physically demanding.

The fences

Grand National fences have iconic shapes and dimensions. Becher’s Brook has a steep drop on the landing side. The Chair is exceptionally tall. The Canal Turn requires a sharp change of direction immediately after the jump. These features make the race challenging in a way that most other races are not.

The size of the field

With thirty or more horses running together the opening phases of the race are crowded and intense. Horses must navigate traffic, maintain position and avoid falls.

The unpredictability

Even favourites can fall or lose momentum while outsiders sometimes produce remarkable performances. This unpredictability helps create excitement for casual viewers.

Its status as a cultural event

Many people who do not follow horse racing during the year still watch the Grand National. Office sweepstakes, family competitions and group viewing have become part of the nation’s tradition.

What to Expect When Watching the Grand National

Watching the Grand National is a thrilling experience because the race evolves quickly. The start is fast and crowded as horses approach the first fence. Early falls can change the rhythm of the race. As the field spreads out the competition becomes a test of stamina.

The second circuit is where the drama intensifies. Fatigue begins to show. Horses move through the pack or lose ground. The run towards the final few fences can be chaotic as riders position themselves for a winning challenge.

The long run in after the final fence adds a final twist. Horses that jump well but tire late can be overtaken by those that finish strongly. This unpredictability often leads to dramatic and emotional conclusions.

How Betting Works in the Grand National

Betting is a major part of the Grand National’s appeal. Most people bet casually for fun rather than as experts. Because the race is unpredictable long odds winners are common which makes small stakes exciting.

Win and each way bets

Win bets require your horse to finish first. Each way bets cover the horse finishing in the top positions. Bookmakers often pay more places for the Grand National due to its large field.

Sweepstakes

Workplaces, families and schools often run sweepstakes where participants draw a random horse for a fixed fee. This gives everyone a reason to watch the race.

Odds movement

Odds can change significantly before the race due to form, weather, jockey bookings or public support.

Betting adds entertainment for many people although it is not necessary to enjoy the Grand National.

Safety Measures and Modern Changes

Safety is a central focus for the organisers. Over the years the Grand National has introduced many improvements to protect horses and jockeys.

Softer fence materials

Traditional wooden frames have been replaced with more flexible, forgiving materials that reduce the impact of falls.

Modified fence height

Several fences have been adjusted to make them safer without losing the challenge.

Bypassing fences

If a horse or rider requires medical attention the race now bypasses that fence on the second circuit rather than forcing horses to jump it.

Improved veterinary care

Veterinary staff are positioned throughout the course. Horses receive immediate examination if they fall or show signs of distress.

Starting procedure changes

The start has been changed to reduce crowding and reduce the risk of collisions.

These measures have helped create a safer environment while preserving the character of the race.

Who Has Won the Grand National the Most

Several horses, trainers and jockeys have left their mark on the Grand National.

Horses

Red Rum is the most famous and successful horse in Grand National history with three wins in the 1970s along with two second place finishes. No other horse has matched this record which makes Red Rum a legendary figure in British sport.

Several horses have won the race twice including Tiger Roll who achieved back to back victories in 2018 and 2019. Tiger Roll became one of the modern icons of the Grand National due to his consistency and jumping skill.

Jockeys

The most successful jockey in Grand National history is George Stevens who won five times in the nineteenth century. In the modern era the race is known for giving jockeys their defining career moment because victory is rare and difficult to achieve.

Trainers

Trainers such as Ginger McCain, who trained Red Rum, and Gordon Elliott, who trained Tiger Roll, have achieved multiple wins.

Famous Grand National Moments

The Grand National has delivered some of the most memorable moments in British sport.

• Red Rum’s third victory in 1977 which cemented his legendary status
• Foinavon’s unexpected win in 1967 after a pile up at a fence allowed him to run clear
• Aldaniti’s emotional victory in 1981 with jockey Bob Champion who had recovered from cancer
• Tiger Roll’s back to back wins which revived global interest in the race
• Devon Loch’s dramatic collapse near the finish line in 1956 which remains one of the sport’s most shocking endings

These moments contribute to the race’s enduring appeal and cultural memory.

Why the Grand National Matters

The Grand National is important for several reasons.

Sporting achievement

Winning the Grand National is one of the greatest accomplishments in jump racing. It tests every aspect of horse and rider performance.

Cultural tradition

Generations of families watch the race together which makes it a shared experience.

Community involvement

Smaller stables, communities and syndicates sometimes achieve success which brings pride to their local areas.

Economic impact

The race supports jobs in racing, tourism and media.

Emotional storytelling

The Grand National has produced countless personal stories of perseverance, resilience and unexpected triumph.

Alternatives and Related Racing Events

Other major events in National Hunt racing include:

• The Cheltenham Gold Cup
• The King George VI Chase
• The Irish Grand National
• The Scottish Grand National

These races have their own traditions yet none match the worldwide recognition of the Aintree Grand National.

Practical Advice for New Viewers

If you are new to the Grand National consider these tips:

Learn a little about the horses

Understanding form, age and stamina adds context to the race.

Watch the big fences carefully

Becher’s Brook, The Chair and the Canal Turn are key points.

Accept the unpredictability

Even experts rarely predict the winner reliably.

Enjoy the spectacle

The atmosphere, commentary and excitement are all part of the experience.

Final Thoughts

The Grand National is a historic steeplechase that blends sport, tradition, emotion and unpredictability. Its long distance, iconic fences and large field make it one of the most challenging races in the world. Whether you watch for the thrill, the tradition or the drama the Grand National remains a major highlight of the British sporting year. Understanding what the race is and how it works helps you appreciate its unique excitement and the skill required from both horses and riders.