Celebrating The Iconic Grand National

The Grand National is one of the most prestigious horse racing events in the world, held annually at Aintree Racecourse near Liverpool. A steeplechase race run over a distance of four miles and 2½ furlongs (7,200 metres in total), the Grand National features 30 of the best horses and jockeys from around the world.

In 1839, Lottery was the first winner of the Grand Liverpool Steeplechase. This race became known as the Grand National and is now one of the most popular sporting events in the UK. Known for its challenging course, the race includes 30 fences, many of which are notoriously difficult to jump. The most famous fence is Becher's Brook, named after Captain Martin Becher who fell into the ditch while riding his horse Conrad in the inaugural Grand National.

Dramatic Racing
One of the reasons why the Grand National is so popular is the unpredictability of the race. With 30 horses competing and a challenging course, there is always the potential for upsets and surprises. The race has produced some incredible moments over the years, including legendary horses like Red Rum, who won the race three times in the 1970s. In addition, the emotional victory of jockey Bob Champion and his horse Aldaniti in 1981, just two years after Champion had been diagnosed with cancer.

Runners and riders compete over two laps of the course. However, whereas the Cheltenham Gold Cup is run at a fast pace, the Grand National is run as a marathon and places emphasis on stamina for the horses running. The only horse to have won both events in the same season is Golden Miller in 1934.

Celebrate the Day
Why not celebrate the day with our Gamble cocktail? Based on the classic Bramble, ‘Gamble’ is perfectly apt for celebrating the winner of the Grand National.

Grand National image © Mick Atkins / Shutterstock.com