Grand National 2024 (UK): Each April, the Grand National Festival is observed; this year, it will be held from April 11 to 14. At Aintree Racecourse, the National Hunt horse race is being conducted. The handicap steeplechase spans approximately 514 yards, or four miles, and consists of two circuits with horses leaping 30 fences.
In 2017, the Grand National Festival featured a £1 million prize fund, making it the most valuable jump race in Europe. The prominence of this race has increased, even among individuals who abstain from following or placing bets on horse racing during other seasons. The course upon which the race is conducted is significantly more expansive in size than the fences typically encountered on National Hunt courses. When coupled with the distance traversed by the horses, these obstacles constitute the pinnacle of difficulty for both the mounts and the horsemen.
Individuals unable to attend Aintree Racecourse in person may view the free-to-air live broadcast on terrestrial television. Since 1927, the race has also been transmitted in its entirety on radio. This is currently the responsibility of Talksport and the B.B.C. The event has amassed a worldwide following. Between 500 and 600 million individuals are estimated to be Grand National spectators in over 140 countries.
Grand National History
The Grand National Festival was founded by William Lynn, the proprietor of the Waterloo Hotel and president of the syndicate. A portion of the land in Aintree was leased to him from the second Earl of Sefton, William Molyneux. Lynn designed the course and constructed the grandstand on February 7, 1829, while Lord Sefton placed the foundation stone.
Between 1838 and 1839, three significant events occurred that elevated the race from a regional concern to a national occasion. The non-renewal of the Great St. Albans Chase occurred following 1838, which coincided with the steeplechase held at Aintree. The pursuing calendar experienced a significant void.
In addition, the Manchester to Liverpool railway, established in 1830, connected to London in 1839 through a line that passed through Birmingham. Train access to Liverpool was enabled for the very first time from numerous regions of the nation.
Finally, the organizers established a committee to enhance the organization of the race. These elements collectively contributed to a highly publicized race that occurred in 1839. A greater variety of elite horses and riders were attracted, press coverage increased, and a more substantial audience was present on race day.
The Grand National Festival has maintained its status as one of the preeminent jump competitions for equine athletes and riders worldwide over the years. At present, it is the longest race in the United Kingdom. Animal rights organizations and horse enthusiasts have frequently protested that the Grand National is too dangerous for the participating horses. Two horses perished while competing in the Grand National Festival in 2011 and 2012. The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (R.S.P.C.A.) and other animal welfare organizations advocated for a change in the circumstances.
Throughout the years, we have modified the obstacles and courses to ensure the safety of the horses and jockeys. To promote initial equine relaxation, we have relocated the starting line at a greater distance from the main stand. The RSPCA has participated in Grand National discussions, evaluations, and research for the past three decades, contributing to the improvement of racing.
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FAQs (Grand National)
In 2022, the Grand National Festival was won by whom?
Sam Waley-Cohen, an amateur, emerged victorious at the Grand National Festival in 2022.
Which barricade stands at the height of the Grand National Festival?
The Chair, measuring five feet three inches in height, is the tallest barrier on the course.
Who has the most victories as a Grand National jockey?
Five times, the Grand National Festival was won by George Stevens.
Grand National 2024 (UK) Activities
Grand National Festival attendance
Visit Liverpool if you are in the United Kingdom to witness the live-action. There is nothing quite like the thrill of attending a race in person.
Educate oneself on history
The history of the Grand National Festival is quite intriguing. This day is ideal for reliving the events that have transpired throughout the years.
Harness a steed
One of the most enjoyable methods to partake in The Grand National Festival is through horseback riding. You will enjoy yourself without the obligation to win a race.
The Grand National Festival: Five Facts
A race in which there are no victors.
In 1993, we canceled the event due to a false start that occurred; some riders failed to observe and continued.
Age-appropriate to race
At the age of 48, Dick Saunders was the oldest victorious jockey in 1982.
They broke age records.
Peter Simple, at the age of 15, emerged victorious in the Grand National Festival race atop the age group.
Success for women
Rachael Blackmore achieved the historic feat of becoming the inaugural female jockey to triumph at the Grand National Festival in 2021.
The most pupular steed
Bruce Hobbs won the competition in 1938, three months prior to the Grand National Festival, when he had just turned seventeen.
GRAND NATIONAL DATES
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | April 11 | Thursday |
| 2025 | April 8 | Tuesday |
| 2026 | April 8 | Wednesday |
