SANDRACER.COM - UK All-Weather Horse Racing Blog

2025 Grand National - As They Line Up

2025 Grand National Race Card - As They Line Up

16:00 Aintree
Randox Grand National Handicap Chase (Premier Handicap) (GBB Race) (Class 1)
38 Runners
Distance: 4m 2f 74y
Surface: Turf
£1,000,000 added
Winner: £500,000
2nd: £200,000
3rd: £100,000
4th: £65,000

▪▪ Number ▪▪ ▪▪ Horse ▪▪ ▪▪ Form ▪▪ ▪▪ Age ▪▪ ▪▪ Weight ▪▪ ▪▪ Official Rating ▪▪ ▪▪ Trainer ▪▪ ▪▪ Jockey ▪▪
01 🎗 Emerald green, yellow hoops, white cap
I Am Maximus (FR)
4311-P8 9 11-12 167 W P Mullins P Townend
02 🎗 Pink, Light Green spots, Pink sleeves and cap
Royale Pagaille (FR)
1F-1P66 11 11-9 164 Miss V Williams Charlie Deutsch
03 🎗 Black, Orange chevron, hooped sleeves
Nick Rockett (IRE)
273-411 8 11-8 163 W P Mullins Mr P W Mullins
04 🎗 Red, White sash, Royal Blue cap
Grangeclare West (IRE)
11-P625 9 11-8 163 W P Mullins B Hayes
05 🎗 Emerald green, black seams, striped sleeves and star on cap
Hewick (IRE)
232571 10 11-7 162 J J Hanlon G Sheehan
06 🎗 Maroon, yellow stars, maroon sleeves, striped cap
Minella Indo (IRE)
1443-26 12 11-3 158 H De Bromhead Rachael Blackmore
07 🎗 Royal Blue, Emerald Green diamonds, Emerald Green sleeves, striped cap
Appreciate It (IRE)
32-5351 11 11-2 157 W P Mullins S F O'Keeffe
08 🎗 Purple, black star and sleeves, white cap
Minella Cocooner (IRE)
31-5894 9 11-2 157 W P Mullins J J Burke
09 🎗 Maroon, white star, armlets and star on cap
Conflated (IRE)
U58708 11 11-2 157 G Elliott J C Gainford
10 🎗 Dark green, yellow stars on sleeves and cap
Stumptown (IRE)
3-U1111 8 11-2 157 G P Cromwell K M Donoghue
11 🎗 Red, White stars on sleeves
Hitman (FR)
283-222 9 11-1 156 P F Nicholls Freddie Gingell
12 🎗 Light Blue, Orange chevrons, Light Blue sleeves and cap
Beauport (IRE)
P1P-132 9 11-1 156 N A Twiston-Davies Sam Twiston-Davies
13 🎗 Orange, dark blue star, orange sleeves, dark blue stars, dark blue cap
Bravemansgame (FR)
56-2383 10 11-0 155 P F Nicholls J Reveley
14 🎗 Emerald green, yellow hoops, red cap
Chantry House (IRE)
09-5515 11 10-13 154 N J Henderson James Bowen
15 🎗 Royal Blue, White hoops, Maroon sleeves and cap
Threeunderthrufive (IRE)
2210-32 10 10-12 153 P F Nicholls Harry Skelton
16 🎗 Emerald Green, Yellow hoops, Emerald Green cap, White star
Perceval Legallois (FR)
286411 8 10-12 153 G P Cromwell M P Walsh
17 🎗 Royal blue, yellow chevrons, royal blue sleeves, yellow stars, royal blue cap, yellow star
Kandoo Kid (FR)
2P23-18 9 10-11 152 P F Nicholls H Cobden
18 🎗 Emerald green, yellow hoops, emerald green and yellow quartered cap
Iroko (FR)
52-2F42 7 10-11 152 O Greenall & J Guerriero Jonjo O'Neill Jr.
19 🎗 Emerald green, dark green sleeves, dark green cap, emerald green spots
Intense Raffles (FR)
111-902 7 10-10 151 T Gibney J J Slevin
20 🎗 Light blue, orange cap, white stars
Senior Chief
21P-169 8 10-10 151 H De Bromhead D J O'Keeffe
21 🎗 Dark blue, yellow star, sleeves and cap
Idas Boy (IRE)
F03106 11 10-10 151 R T Phillips Harry Bannister
22 🎗 Pink and white (halved), black sleeves, black cap, pink star
Fil Dor (FR)
212433 7 10-9 150 G Elliott Sam Ewing
23 🎗 Beige, Brown Cross of Lorraine, hooped cap
Broadway Boy (IRE)
35-324P 7 10-9 150 N A Twiston-Davies Thomas Bellamy
24 🎗 Maroon, white star and armlet, white cap
Coko Beach (FR)
U50029 10 10-9 150 G Elliott J S McGarvey
25 🎗 Royal Blue, Orange hoop and armlets, hooped cap
Stay Away Fay (IRE)
13PP-P0 8 10-9 150 P F Nicholls Paul O'Brien
26 🎗 Emerald green, yellow hoops, blue cap
Meetingofthewaters (IRE)
U37-008 8 10-7 148 W P Mullins D E Mullins
27 🎗 Yellow, Dark Blue triple diamond and armlets
Monbeg Genius (IRE)
35P-241 9 10-6 147 J & A O'Neill Nick Scholfield
28 🎗 Red, yellow cross of lorraine and armlets, red & dark blue striped cap
Vanillier (FR)
0-P6913 10 10-6 147 G P Cromwell S W Flanagan
29 🎗 Lilac, green chevron
Dark Desert Eagle (IRE)
234P39 9 10-5 146 N A Twiston-Davies Sam Twiston-Davies
30 🎗 Emerald Green, Yellow Hoops
Life in the Park (FR)
P16-321 9 10-5 146 G Elliott J W Kennedy
31 🎗 Orange with white sleeves
From the Ashes (IRE)
45321-3 9 10-5 146 G Elliott A Mullins
32 🎗 Light Blue, White sleeves and cap
Coney Island (IRE)
235542 11 10-4 145 G Elliott Jack Kennedy
33 🎗 Red and White hooped sleeves, white cap
Silver Hallmark (IRE)
R1121-4 9 10-4 145 Jonjo O'Neill Tom O'Brien
34 🎗 Red, White hoops, cap
Slam Dunk (IRE)
P4P134 7 10-4 145 John McConnell Denis O'Regan
35 🎗 Pale green, emerald green sleeves
Scrabble (IRE)
P04-292 9 10-3 144 H Skelton Harry Skelton
36 🎗 Navy Blue, Yellow hoops, armlets and cap
Fierce Ground (IRE)
3511-2P 10 10-3 144 G Elliott Mark Walsh
37 🎗 Purple, Yellow chevrons, sleeves, yellow cap
Tommy’s Dashing (IRE)
36110-1 9 10-2 143 P J Hobbs Jeremiah McGrath
38 🎗 Lavender, Pink spots on sleeves, Pink cap
Galvanised (IRE)
35-0720 7 10-1 142 David Pipe David Noonan

Each-Way Terms: 6 Places: 1/5 Odds (prices will change)
I Am Maximus: 13/2F
Stumptown: 8
Iroko: 15/2
Hewick: 10
Vanillier: 10
Perceval Legallois: 12
Intense Raffles: 11
Minella Cocooner: 14
Kandoo Kid: 20
Hyland: 20
Meetingofthewaters: 22
Beauport: 28
Senior Chief: 28
Nick Rockett: 25
Grangeclare West: 22
Minella Indo: 25
Three Card Brag: 22
Monbeg Genius: 33
Bravemansgame: 50
Threeunderthrufive: 50
Broadway Boy: 80
Duffle Coat: 66
Appreciate It: 80
Fil Dor: 66
Twig: 50
Stay Away Fay: 80
Favori De Champdou: 100
Conflated: 100
Hitman: 100
Chantry House: 100
Horantzau Dairy: 100
Coko Beach: 100
Shakem Uparry: 100
Royale Pagaille: 100
Idas Boy: 100
Fantastic Lady: 150
Celebre DAllen: 150
Roi Mage: 200

Labels:

Grand National Video & Archive (2020-2029)

2020-2029 Grand National Video Replay Archive

Caricature of horses jumping huge grand national fence

⌨ 2020 Virtual Aintree Grand National

Winner: Potters Corner (18/1) 2nd: Walk In The Mill (16/1) 3rd: Any Second Now (10/1) 4th: Tiger Roll (5/1f)


2020 Grand National Racing Post Page

◢ The 2020 Grand Natonal, scheduled for Aintree, was cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic, marking the first cancellation since World War II. In its place, a Virtual Grand Natonal was broadcast on April 4 2020 by ITV, using CGI (computer generated imagery) and algorythms to simulate the race.

Potters Corner (18/1) won the virtual event, followed by Walk In The Mill in second, Any Second Now in third, and Tiger Roll, the 2018 and 2019 champ, in 4th place. No crowds, no betting ring, just cheese..

The Cartoon National raised over £2 million for NHS charities, offering a unique substitute for the big race amid unprecedented times. Must say, atleast that bit that was a good idea, all things considered.




🏳 2021 Aintree Grand National

Winner: Minella Times (11/1) 2nd: Balko Des Flos (100/1) 3rd: Any Second Now (15/2) 4th: Burrows Saint (9/1)


2021 Grand National Wikipedia Page

◢ The 2021 National, saw history made as Rachael Blackmore became the first female jockey to win the hardest to win and the "greatest horse race in the world". Riding Minella Times (11/1), trained by Henry de Bromhead, she led the 40 horse field to a commanding victory by 6 lengths+, finishing ahead of De Bromhead's 100/1 shot Balko Des Flos, who came home in second place with Aidan Coleman on board, giving the Irish trainer a nice one ~ two.

Any Second Now from the Ted Walsh stable took third with Mark Walsh on board. Burrows Saint ~ trained by Willie Mullins and ridden by his son Patrick Mullins, came 4th.

Girl Power!◢ The win capped a big year for Blackmore, fresh off her Cheltenham success. The racing and the front pages of the mainstream media covered her ground~breaking acheivement quite excitedly actually, with the horse's odds of 11-1 proving to be a popular bet with the ladies.

The event, run without crowds due to COVID, marked a memorable moment in racing history. Girl Power! Just imagine, some thought it was never going to happen, and there she goes, showing them all.. Who said a female jockey could never win the National? Good for her.



🏳 2022 Aintree Grand National

Winner: Noble Yeats (50/1) 2nd: Any Second Now (15/2f) 3rd: Delta Work (10/1) 4th: Santini (33/1)


2022 Grand National Wikipedia Page

◢ The 2022 Grand Natonal delivered a thrilling spectical as Noble Yeats (50/1) claimed victory for Emmet Mullins in the 174th running of the iconic steeplechase. Ridden by amateur jockey Sam Waley-Cohen in his final ride before retirment, the 50-1 outsider surged past favourite Any Second Now, trained by Ted Walsh and ridden by Mark Walsh (#gallery), to win by two and a quarter lengths,

The Gordon Elliott yard via jockey Jack Kennedy got Delta Work home in 3rd place with the Polly Gundry trained Santini finishing in 4th with Nick Scholfield on board.

The race marked a triumphant return to a full capacity crowd post COVID, captivating 70,000 spectators. Noble Yeats, trained by Emmet Mullins (#gallery), became the first 7yo winner since 1940, sealing a fairytale finish for the Irish ex jockey turned trainer.



🏳 2023 Aintree Grand National

Winner: Corach Rambler (8/1f) 2nd: Vanillier (20/1) 3rd: Gaillard Du Mesnil (10/1) 4th: Noble Yeats (10/1)


2023 Grand National Wikipedia Page

◢ The 2023 National was one of the most controversal editions of the worlds most famous steeplechase. Corach Rambler, trained by Lucinda Russell and ridden by Derek Fox, won at 8's. The 9yo, fresh from a Cheltenham win, put on a flawless performance, taking the lead at the final fence and pulling away from Gavin Cromwell's Vanillier (20/1), ridden by Sean Flanagan.

Willie Mullins and and jockey Paul Townend got 2rd with Gaillard Du Mesnil (10/1). Noble Yeats, the 2022 winner for Emmet Mullins, finished a decent fourth with Sean Bowen aboard, despite carrying extra weight earned during last year's win.

This win marked Russell and Fox’s second Grand National success, following One For Arthur in 2017, ending a streak of 4 consecutive Irish trained winners.

Controversy◢ However, the race was marred by a 14minute delay caused by Animal Rising protestors breaching the track, leading to 118 arrests. Tragically, Hill Sixteen sufferred a fatal fall at the first fence, maybe as a result of the protesters actions? One of three horse deaths during the three~day meeting, sparking much debate over animal welfare in jump racing.

Criticism◢ Only 17 of the 39 starters managed to finish the chaotic race, which was further disrupted by loose horses. The event drew criticism from groups like Peta UK and Animal Aid, while the RSPCA called for reforms, highlighting their well known opinion regarding the risks to horses welfare due to the Grand National's large feild sizes, big jumps and the demanding 4m3f+ course.



🏳 2024 Aintree Grand National

Winner: I Am Maximus (7/1jf) 2nd: Delta Work (28/1) 3rd: Minella Indo (28/1) 4th: Galvin (40/1)


2024 Grand National Wikipedia Page

◢ The 2024 National as usual was a decent race to watch. I Am Maximus, the 7/1 joint fav, won pretty easily in the end. The 8yo, trained by Willie Mullins and ridden by Paul Townend, stormed home after the last fence, finshing a full 7 and a half lengths ahead of the rest.

It was big win for Ireland, with Delta Work (28/1) taking second and Minella Indo (28/1) grabbing third. Galvin, the 40/1 outsider, managed 4th place, so it was an all~Irish full house. There were only 34 runners lining up this time, not the usual 40, for safety reasons.

Defending champion Corach Rambler had a nightmarish start, falling at the first fence and unseating jockey Derek Fox. That ruined his chance of a repeat win, like Red Rum or Tiger Roll did before.

The win was handy for both trainer Mullins and jockey Paul Townend. For Mullins, it was his second Grand National win, his first one was back in 2005. For Townend, it was a dream come true as it was his first ever Grand Natonal victory. The win also gave legendary owner JP McManus his third Grand National winner.

The National new race format worked well after last year's protestations, with 21 out of 32 starters finishing, no fatalities.



Labels:

Grand National Video & Archive (1950-1959)

1950-1959 Grand National Video Replay Archive

Caricature of horses jumping huge grand national fence

🏳 1950 Grand National Replay

Winner: Freebooter (10/1) 2nd: Wot No Sun (100/7) 3rd: Acthon Major (33/1) 4th: Rowland Roy (40/1)


1950 Grand National Wikipedia Page

◢ The 1950 Grand National was won by Freebooter at 10/1, trained by Robert Renton and ridden by Jimmy Power, cruising home by 15 lengths on good ground. Wot No Sun took second at 100/7, guided by trainer Neville Franklin Crump and jockey Arthur Thompson.

Acthon Major nabbed third at 33/1, trained by Michael Easterby with Bobby O’Ryan up top, while Rowland Roy finished fourth at 40/1, under trainer Richard ‘Dicky’ Black and rider Jack Dowdeswell.

Royal hope Monaveen faltered after a strong mid-race bid, leaving the King and Queen to watch Freebooter’s romp steal the postwar spotlight.

A massive crowd ~ nearly 500,000 ~ flocked to Aintree, boosted by King George VI and the royal family’s first postwar visit to cheer their co~owned Monaveen, which faded late. From 49 starters, seven finished, all returning safe ~ a rare clean slate for the brutal course. Freebooter’s win kicked off the decade with a bang, marking Renton’s first National triumph.




🏳 1951 Grand National Replay

Winner: Nickel Coin (40/1) 2nd: Royal Tan (40/1) 3rd: Derrinstown (66/1) 4th: Freebooter (10/1JF)


1951 Grand National Wikipedia Page

Nickel Coin stunned at 40/1 in the 1951 Grand National, trained by Jack O’Donaghue and ridden by Johnny Bullock, winning by eight lengths on firm ground. Royal Tan took second at 40/1, guided by master trainer M Vincent O’Brien and his nephew Phonsie O’Brien.

Derrinstown grabbed third at 66/1, trained by Alan Power with Tommy Cusack in the saddle, while Freebooter, the 10/1 joint-favorite, faded to fourth under Robert Renton and jockey Jimmy Power.

A brutal first circuit saw 14 fallers, including fancied runners, leaving Bullock to weave through carnage for a shock victory.

A chaotic first fence saw multiple falls, thinning the field fast. Of 36 starters, only three crossed the line, making it a bookies’ dream with longshots dominating. Nickel Coin’s mare-powered upset was O’Donaghue’s lone National win, a gritty tale of redemption after Bullock’s early fall in ’50.




🏳 1952 Grand National Replay

Winner: Teal (100/7) 2nd: Legal Joy (100/6) 3rd: Wot No Sun (33/1) 4th: Uncle Barney (100/1)


1952 Grand National Wikipedia Page

Teal won the 1952 Grand National at 100/7, trained by Neville Franklin Crump and ridden by Arthur Thompson, taking it by five lengths on good ground. Legal Joy came second at 100/6, under the care of Fulke T Walwyn and jockey Michael Scudamore.

Wot No Sun nabbed third at 33/1, also trained by Neville Franklin Crump with David Dick aboard, while Uncle Barney took fourth at 100/1, guided by H Clarkson and jockey Jack Boddy.

Early drama unfolded as Royal Tan crashed out at the first, gifting Teal a clear path to glory in a scrambled field.

A false start ~ horses breaking the tape ~ pushed the off back 10 minutes. From a hefty 47 starters, 10 finished, with Crump doubling up by training first and third. Teal’s lone Aintree run delivered a career peak for Thompson and Teal, in a race spiced by early chaos.




🏳 1953 Grand National Replay

Winner: Early Mist (20/1) 2nd: Mont Tremblant (18/1) 3rd: Irish Lizard (33/1) 4th: Overshadow (33/1)


1953 Grand National Wikipedia Page

Early Mist took the 1953 Grand National at 20/1, trained by M Vincent O’Brien and ridden by Bryan Marshall, storming home by 20 lengths on good ground. Mont Tremblant nabbed second at 18/1, guided by Fulke T Walwyn and rider David Dick.

Irish Lizard claimed third at 33/1, trained by Herbert "Frenchie" Nicholson with jockey Bob Turnell aboard, while Overshadow finished fourth at 33/1, under Clem Magnier and Pat Taaffe.

Heavy betting on Early Mist surged late, with punters cashing in as O’Brien’s Irish raider crushed a fancied English pack.

It was O’Brien’s first of three straight National wins. Of 31 starters, just five finished, highlighting Aintree’s tough toll. Early Mist’s romp launched O’Brien’s Aintree dynasty, with Marshall’s ride setting the tone for a historic run.




🏳 1954 Grand National Replay

Winner: Royal Tan (8/1) 2nd: Tudor Line (10/1) 3rd: Irish Lizard (15/2) 4th: Churchtown (10/1)


1954 Grand National Wikipedia Page

Royal Tan won the 1954 Grand National at 8/1, trained by M Vincent O’Brien and ridden by Bryan Marshall (homecoming image), edging home by six lengths on good ground. Tudor Line took second at 10/1, guided by Robert Renton and George Slack.

Irish Lizard nabbed third at 15/2, trained by Herbert "Frenchie" Nicholson with Michael Scudamore aboard, while Churchtown finished fourth at 10/1, under M Vincent O’Brien and top Irish jockey Toss Taaffe.

A mid-race pile-up at Becher’s took out six, including favorite Early Mist, tightening the screws on a shrinking field.

Four fatalities marred the day, prompting a safety outcry from animal safety activists and an increasingly animal safety aware public alike. From 29 starters ~ the smallest field since 1935 ~ nine finished. Royal Tan’s win was O’Brien’s second straight, but the race’s death/injury toll re the horses sparked an inquiry and fence changes for 1955.




🏳 1955 Grand National Replay

Winner: Quare Times (100/9) 2nd: Tudor Line (10/1) 3rd: Carey’s Cottage (20/1) 4th: Gigolo (100/6)


1955 Grand National Wikipedia Page

Quare Times claimed the 1955 Grand National at 100/9, trained by M Vincent O’Brien and ridden by Pat Taaffe, winning by 12 lengths on soft ground. Tudor Line took second at 10/1, guided home by Robert Renton with George Slack in the saddle.

Carey’s Cottage nabbed third at 20/1, trained by Tom J Taaffe Snr with Toss Taaffe up, while Gigolo finished fourth at 100/6, under J S Wight and Richard "Dick" Curran.

A soggy Aintree tested stamina, with Quare Times splashing clear as fancied Royal Tan sank in the mud late on.

Heavy rain axed the water jump, which is only jumped once on the first circuit anyway ~ a National first with no water jump to negotiate. Of 29 starters, nine finished, with softened fences post ~ 1954 tragedy easing the toll. Quare Times capped O’Brien’s unprecedented three-peat, cementing his Aintree/National legendary status.




🏳 1956 Grand National Replay

Winner: E.S.B. (100/7) 2nd: Gentle Moya (22/1) 3rd: Royal Tan (28/1) 4th: Eagle Lodge (66/1)


1956 Grand National Wikipedia Page

E.S.B. won the 1956 Grand National at 100/7, trained by Thomas Frederic Rimell and ridden by David Dick, taking it by 10 lengths on good ground. Gentle Moya nabbed second at 22/1, guided by C Bewicke and horseman George Milburn.

Royal Tan took third at 28/1, trained by M Vincent O’Brien (gallery) with Toss Taaffe aboard, while Eagle Lodge finished fourth at 66/1, under Matt Feakes and rider Alan Oughton.

Crowds gasped as Devon Loch (odds ~ 100/7), led by five lengths before his strange collapse gifted E.S.B. a dramatic steal.

Devon Loch’s heartbreaking late stumble handed E.S.B. the win. It is believed that the horse attempted to jump an imaginary fence. If you look closely at the #replay, he surely saw the dolled off water jump out of the corner of his left eye near the other side of the running rail, half jumped in a strange manner and spread eagled himself in the confusion. An unimaginable slice of bad luck for the much loved Queen Mother. From 29 starters, nine finished. E.S.B.’s victory marked David Dick’s lone National triumph in a race etched in racing lore forever more.




🏳 1957 Grand National Replay

Winner: Sundew (20/1) 2nd: Wyndburgh (25/1) 3rd: Tiberetta (66/1) 4th: Glorious Twelfth (100/8)


1957 Grand National Wikipedia Page

Sundew took the 1957 Grand National at 20/1, trained by Frank Hudson and ridden by Fred Winter, winning by eight lengths wire-to-wire on good ground. Wyndburgh nabbed second at 25/1, guided by P Wilkinson and Michael Batchelor.

Tiberetta claimed third at 66/1, trained by E R Courage with Alan Oughton up, while Glorious Twelfth finished fourth at 100/8, under Robert Renton and Jumbo Wilkinson. Last year’s winner ESB ran eighth.

A mid-race scare at the Canal Turn saw Sundew nearly unseat Winter, but the pair clung on to dominate the final few furlongs.

Of 35 starters, 11 finished, with Sundew’s third attempt proving lucky after falls in 1955 and 56. Hudson’s small yard struck gold, and Winter launched his 4 win National legacy.




🏳 1958 Grand National Replay

Winner: Mr What (18/1) 2nd: Tiberetta (28/1) 3rd: Green Drill (28/1) 4th: Wyndburgh (6/1)


1958 Grand National Wikipedia Page

Mr What won the 1958 Grand National at 18/1, trained by Tom J Taaffe Snr and ridden by Arthur Freeman, storming home by 30 lengths on soft ground. Tiberetta took second at 28/1, guided by E R Courage and Cumbrian born jockey George Slack.

Green Drill nabbed third at 28/1, trained by C Bewicke with George Milburn up, while Wyndburgh, the 6/1 favorite, settled for fourth under James Kenneth Murray Oliver and jockey Michael Batchelor. A late jockey switch saw Freeman step in.

Heavy going bogged down early leaders, letting Mr What surge past a tiring pack in a rain-lashed slog to the line.

From 31 starters, seven finished, with Mr What’s romp marking Ireland’s fifth postwar win. Taaffe Sr’s nous shone in a muddy test that crushed the field.




🏳 1959 Grand National Replay

Winner: Oxo (8/1) 2nd: Wyndburgh (10/1) 3rd: Mr What (6/1) 4th: Tiberetta (20/1)


1959 Grand National Wikipedia Page

Oxo won the 1959 Grand National at 8/1, trained by William Arthur Stephenson and ridden by Michael Scudamore, powering home by 15 lengths on good ground. Wyndburgh took second at 10/1, guided by James Kenneth Murray Oliver and Champion jockey Tim Brookshaw.

Mr What, the 6/1 favorite, nabbed third, trained by Tom J Taaffe Snr with Toss Taaffe aboard, while Tiberetta finished fourth at 20/1, under E R Courage and jockey Alan Oughton. Past stars reunited in a tough field.

A savage Chair fence claimed eight early casualties, setting up Oxo’s relentless charge through a battered survivors’ race.

Of 34 starters, just four finished, with 30 non~finishers fueling a cruelty debate that hit Parliament. Oxo’s win was Stephenson’s lone National triumph, closing the decade under scrutiny.



Labels:

Grand National Video & Archive (1960-1969)

1960-1969 Grand National Video Replay Archive

Caricature of horses jumping huge grand national fence

🏳 1960 Aintree Grand National Replay

Winner: Merryman II (13/2F) 2nd: Badanloch (100/7) 3rd: Clear Profit (20/1) 4th: Tea Fiend (33/1)


1960 Grand National Wikipedia Page

◢ The 1960 Grand National was won by Merryman II at 13/2fav, guided by trainer Neville Franklin Crump and steered home by jockey Gerry Scott. The duo powered home by 15 lengths in 9 minutes 52 seconds on good ground to kick off the decade in style. Badanloch took second at 100/7, overseen by trainer George R Owen and ridden by Stan Mellor.

Clear Profit claimed third at 20/1, trained by R Newton and taking the reins was jockey Jumbo Wilkinson, while Tea Fiend finished fourth at 33/1, also trained by George R Owen and piloted by Gerry Madden.

From 36 starters, only eight crossed the finish line, a testament to the race’s punishing nature. Merryman II’s victory marked Neville Crump’s second National win, having previously triumphed in 1952 with Teal, showcasing his knack for preparing horses for Aintree’s brutal test.




🏳 1961 Aintree Grand National Replay

Winner: Nicolaus Silver (28/1) 2nd: Merryman II (8/1) 3rd: O'Malley Point (100/6) 4th: Scottish Flight II (100/6)


1961 Grand National Wikipedia Page

◢ In 1961, Nicolaus Silver clinched victory at 28/1, guided by trainer Thomas Frederic Rimell, ridden jockey Bobby Beasley. The grey stormed home by 20 lengths in 9 minutes 47 seconds on firm ground, a rare feat at Aintree. Merryman II took second at 8/1, overseen by trainer Neville Franklin Crump and ridden by jockey Derek Ancil after his 1960 triumph.

O’Malley Point nabbed third at 100/6, marshalled by trainer William Arthur Stephenson and up top was Paddy Farrell, while Scottish Flight II finished fourth at 100/6, trained by Peter Victor Ferdinand Cazalet and ridden by Bill Rees.

Of 35 starters, just 12 finished the grueling course. Nicolaus Silver’s win was a standout moment, marking him as only the second grey to claim the National after The Lamb in 1868, with Beasley’s bold ride and Rimell’s training nous shining through.




🏳 1962 Aintree Grand National Replay

Winner: Kilmore (28/1) 2nd: Wyndburgh (45/1) 3rd: Mr What (22/1) 4th: Gay Navaree (100/1)


1962 Grand National Wikipedia Page

◢ The 1962 Grand National saw Kilmore triumph at 28/1, ably guided by trainer Henry Ryan Price and ridden by jockey Fred Winter. The pair surged to a 10-length win in 9 minutes 51 seconds on good going, outpacing a strong field. Wyndburgh took second at 45/1, trained by James Kenneth Murray Oliver and ridden by Tommy Barnes.

Mr What secured third at 22/1, for little known trainer R Ward and jockey Johnny Lehane, while Gay Navaree, a 100/1 outsider, finished fourth, trained by R Hoey and steered home by Tony Cameron [ 1 ].

From 32 starters, 17 made it to the finish, a higher completion rate than usual for Aintree’s demanding course. Kilmore’s triumph was a feather in Fred Winter’s cap, who later became a legendary trainer, while Price’s preparation proved spot-on for the big day.




🏳 1963 Aintree Grand National Replay

Winner: Ayala (66/1) 2nd: Carrickbeg (20/1) 3rd: Hawa's Song (28/1) 4th: Team Spirit (13/1)


1963 Grand National Wikipedia Page

◢ In 1963, Ayala stunned the field at 66/1 for trainer Keith Piggott with jockey Pat Buckley for company. The longshot edged home by half a length in 9 minutes 35 seconds on firm ground, defying the odds. Carrickbeg ~ 2nd at 20/1 ~ was trained by Don ButchersDon Butchers trained his horses at Lewes, moving to Priam Lodge in 1956. He trained Saffron Tartan to win the 1960 King George VI Chase and the 1961 Cheltenham Gold Cup. In 1962, he trained Carrickbeg to win the Kim Muir Memorial Chase at Cheltenham and a 2nd spot in the 63 Grand National. He later moved to East Garston, but gave up his racing career late in 1963. He died from a heart attack in 1967. and in the saddle was jockey John Lawrence aka Lord Oaksey.

Hawa’s Song claimed third at 28/1, marshalled by trainer William Arthur Stephenson and taking the reins was Paddy Broderick, while Team Spirit finished fourth at 13/1, trained by Fulke T Walwyn and ridden by Willie Robinson.

Of 47 starters, the largest field of the decade ~ only 18 finished. Ayala’s victory was a shock, with Piggott’s training and Buckley’s daring ride turning an outsider into a National hero, setting the stage for Team Spirit’s later success in 1964.




🏳 1964 Aintree Grand National Replay

Winner: Team Spirit (18/1) 2nd: Purple Silk (100/6) 3rd: Peacetown (40/1) 4th: Eternal (66/1)


1964 Grand National Wikipedia Page

◢ The 1964 Grand National was won by Team Spirit at 18/1, guided by trainer Fulke T Walwyn and jockey Willie Robinson. After a fourth in 1963, they prevailed by half a length in 9 minutes 58 seconds on good ground. Purple Silk took second at 100/6, trained by G M Vergette and ridden by John Kenneally.

Peacetown secured third at 40/1, marshalled by trainer George R Owen and taking the reins was Roy Edwards, while Eternal, a 66/1 shot, finished fourth, trained by R F Palmer and ridden by Steve Davenport.

From 33 starters, just 15 finished the race. Team Spirit’s victory was a redemption story, with Walwyn’s persistence and Robinson’s skill turning a near-miss into a National triumph, cementing their reputations at Aintree.




🏳 1965 Aintree Grand National Replay

Winner: Jay Trump (100/6) 2nd: Freddie (7/2F) 3rd: Mr Jones (50/1) 4th: Rainbow Battle (50/1)


1965 Grand National Wikipedia Page

◢ In 1965, Jay Trump triumphed at 100/6, guided by trainer Frederick Thomas Winter and in the saddle was jockey Tommy Smith. The American-bred horse dominated by 15 lengths in 9 minutes 30 seconds on firm ground, a transatlantic feat. Freddie, the 7/2 favourite, took second for trainer R Tweedie and jockey Pat McCarron.

Mr Jones nabbed third at 50/1, trained by William Arthur Stephenson and ridden by Chris Collins, while Rainbow Battle finished fourth at 50/1, guided by trainer C Bewicke and ridden by George Milburn.

Of 47 starters, 15 completed the course. Jay Trump’s victory marked the first American-trained winner of the National, with Winter’s expertise and Smith’s ride proving a winning combo, setting a high bar for the decade.




🏳 1966 Aintree Grand National Replay

Winner: Anglo (50/1) 2nd: Freddie (11/4F) 3rd: Forest Prince (100/7) 4th: The Fossa (20/1)


1966 Grand National Wikipedia Page

◢ The 1966 Grand National went to Anglo at 50/1, trained by Frederick Thomas Winter and ridden by jockey Tim Norman. The outsider romped home by 20 lengths in 9 minutes 52 seconds on good ground, a commanding run. Freddie, the 11/4 favourite, took second, overseen by trainer R Tweedie and in the saddle was Pat McCarron.

Forest Prince claimed third at 100/7, trained by Neville Franklin Crump and ridden by Gerry Scott, while The Fossa finished fourth at 20/1, looked after by trainer Thomas Frederic Rimell and Terry Biddlecombe the rider.

From 47 starters, only 14 finished the punishing course. Anglo’s win gave Fred Winter back-to-back National victories as a trainer, following Jay Trump in 1965, underlining his growing dominance in the sport.




🏳 1967 Aintree Grand National Replay

Winner: Foinavon (100/1) 2nd: Honey End (15/2) 3rd: Red Alligator (30/1) 4th: Greek Scholar (20/1)


1967 Grand National Wikipedia Page Foinavon broke all records with a Tote return of 444/1.

◢ The 1967 Grand National became legendary as Foinavon won at 100/1, for trainer John Henry Kempton and cooler than a fan in the hotseat was jockey John Buckingham. A pile-up at the 23rd fence, caused by Popham Down (video replay), left them to stroll home by 15 lengths in 9 minutes 49 seconds on good ground.

Foinavon’s first owner was Anne Grosvenor, Duchess of Westminster, who also owned the juggernaut Arkle. He was sold after three chase wins in Ireland due to alleged poor jumping, Foinavon joined forces with Kempton, who trained him over small fences for this improbable triumph.

Honey End, the 15/2 favourite, took second, overseen by trainer Henry Ryan Price and ridden by Josh Gifford. Red Alligator claimed third at 30/1, for trainer Denys Smith and was ridden by Brian Fletcher, while Greek Scholar finished fourth at 20/1, marshalled by trainer Denys Smith and jockey Terry Biddlecombe respectively.

Of 44 starters, only 18 finished after the chaotic fence incident, now named Foinavon’s Fence. The improbable victory turned Foinavon into an Aintree folk hero, with Buckingham’s cool head and Kempton’s faith in the outsider paying off spectacularly.

#historical betting note◢ Tote Returns Record⏵ Not only was the race a crazy one due to the pile up ~ Foinavon was a 500/1 shot the day before the race ~ backed down to 100/1 on the day ~ then returned 441/1 on the Tote!




🏳 1968 Aintree Grand National Replay

Winner: Red Alligator (100/7) 2nd: Moidore’s Token (100/6) 3rd: Different Class (17/2) 4th: Rutherfords (100/9)


1968 Grand National Wikipedia Page

◢ In 1968, Red Alligator prevailed at 100/7, guided by trainer Denys Smith and jockey Brian Fletcher. After a third in 1967, they romped home by 20 lengths in 9 minutes 28 seconds on good ground. Moidore’s Token took second at 100/6, overseen by trainer James Kenneth Murray Oliver and jockey Barry Brogan.

Different Class, the 17/2 favourite, settled for third, marshalled by trainer Peter Victor Ferdinand Cazalet and ridden home by David Mould, while Rutherfords finished fourth at 100/9, trained by Neville Franklin Crump and steered by Pat Buckley.

Of 45 starters, only 17 completed the 68 national course. Red Alligator’s victory was a breakout moment for Brian Fletcher, who’d later ride Red Rum to glory, while Denys Smith’s training turned a solid contender into a National champion.




🏳 1969 Aintree Grand National Replay

Winner: Highland Wedding (100/9) 2nd: Steel Bridge (50/1) 3rd: Rondetto (25/1) 4th: The Beeches (100/6)


1969 Grand National Wikipedia Page

◢ The 1969 Grand National was won by Highland Wedding at 100/9, guided by trainer G B ‘Toby’ Balding and jockey Eddie Harty. They surged to a 12l victory in 9 minutes 31 seconds on good ground, closing the decade strong. Steel Bridge took second at 50/1, overseen by "trainer" [ R A Lockhart-SmithBarbara Lockhart-Smith ~ To many Barbara's name won't mean anything, but the best way to sum her up is that she was the archtypal formidable, fearsome and redoubtable female trainer long before anyone had ever heard of Jenny Pitman;

Those familiar with her name will doubtless recall her charges Steel Bridge (second under Richard Pitman to Highland Wedding in the 1969 Grand National) and Sartorius (fourth under Terry Biddlecombe to Arkle in the 1966 Cheltenham Gold Cup), although of course those horses were at the time (because women were not then allowed to hold training licenses) officially trained by her long-suffering husband Lt-Commander R. A. Lockhart-Smith, RN, who must have made the most unlikely trainer ever, having apparently no interest in, or knowledge of, horses, or racing whatsoever.

# Source: Stable Life Blog ~ "this country"
# ] and ridden by Richard Pitman.

Rondetto claimed third at 25/1, trained Bob Turnell and ridden Jeff King, while The Beeches finished fourth at 100/6, also for Bob Turnell and steered by Bill Rees.

From 30 starters, only 14 crossed the line, with the fences still proving a stern test. Highland Wedding’s victory was Toby Balding’s first National success, a milestone for the young trainer, while Harty’s ride showcased his rising star at Aintree.



Labels: