What’s the Fuss About the Grand National?

Now that the Cheltenham Festival 2017 has come and gone, up next on the National Hunt racing calendar is the famous Grand National.  Taking place at Aintree Racecourse in Aintree, England, the Grand National brings together the world’s best National Hunt horses, trainers, and jockeys in one place to enjoy a few days of high quality and highly competitive racing.  It would be unwise to not place a wager on this prestigious event when this site is offering FREE bets.

You may have heard the name “Grand National,” but if you are new to the horse racing or betting scene, or if you live outside the UK, then you might not be up to speed on its history.

How did it start?

The Grand National is organized by the National Hunt and is held annually at Aintree Racecourse, which is near Liverpool, in England.  The event has always been an integral part of British culture and draws huge crowds and celebrities, including The Queen, senior members of the Royal Family, and British aristocracy.  The event traces its history back to 1829, when the foundation stone of the first grandstand was laid on February 7th by Lord Sefton.  Over the years, its popularity steadily grew, and the only times that the race has not been held were between 1941-1945 due to World War 2, and in the early 2000s due to the outbreak of Foot and Mouth disease.

What goes on?

The race is a cross-country steeple chase, with horses running two laps of a 6.9 km track (approximately 34 1/4 furlongs) with a number of jumps placed throughout.  The course is famous for having one of the longest run-ins between the final fence and the finish line, measuring 452 meters (approximately 2 1/4 furlongs).  Each fence varies in size, and there is no pattern to the order in which they are set up, meaning that the horses are unable to get accustomed to a particular and specific increase.

Who are the record holders?

Over the years, the event has seen many impressive spectacles for viewers and betters alike.  For instance, the famous racehorse Red Rum won the race an impressive three times in 1973, 1974, and 1977. George Stevens holds the record for the most wins by a jockey, with 5, in 1856, 1863, 1864, 1869, and 1870.  Mr. Frisk was the fastest winning horse, clocked in at 8:47.8 in 1990.

How can I get involved?

Short of making your way to Liverpool, there are several ways that you can get involved in the excitement of one of the world’s most famous horse racing events.  In the United States, you watch online and follow the news on your favorite racing sites, but most of all, and by far the most fun way to get involved, is to place a wager.  With FREE bets available, what are you waiting for? The Grand National is a few days away, so come see what all the fuss is about!