Who doesn't love the Grand National? The greatest steeplechase in the world. It's a race that captures the imagination of young and old.
Remember the time…
The great thing about the Grand National is that we all have a story to tell. Even if it was your Grandad reminiscing about the day he saw Red Rum walking around the paddock, before going on to win in style. Which horse do you remember? Or perhaps it was a horse trainer or jockey?
I love the National. I have many memories:
Firstly, I can't help but hear the music composed by Carl Davis. You know the theme tune, originally played in the film Champions (1984) starring John Hurt, telling the story of Bob Champion and Aldaniti. Champion, battling cancer, and his trusty horse, who had struggled for fitness after suffering serious injury. I often watch this iconic film and have tears in my eyes. I actually had a small bet on Aldaniti (I was fourteen) and what a supreme victory. A story that gives hope in times of adversity. Bob Champion went on to raise millions of pounds for charity and won the greatest battle – his life.
Which other horses do I remember?
I should say bet rather than horse…
This story is about my brother and a horse many will not remember called Classified. He ran in the days of West Tip and all those names which stick in the mind. It was an era of great Grand National winners. Classified never won but I think he finished third once but a remarkably durable horse who was never far away on umpteen tries. One year, the Racing Post reported that he had unseated his rider. And there was a wave of letters from frustrated fans who knew his saddle had slipped. Never – ever – would Classified unseat his rider or fall at a fence. He concluded a long career by winning his final race at Huntingdon. What a gallant horse.
So many readers will state that Red Rum was the greatest of the greatest and who could knock such a wonderful horse. The only horse to win three times.
I can't help but feel sorry for Crisp who had to give Red Rum 23lbs but tired in the closing stages to be caught by the murderous horse (Red Rum). For many, the 1973 Grand National is an iconic race.
My Dad had a story. He loved the Grand National although I can't say he was much of a quizzer. However, knowledge comes in all shapes and forms and he often talked fondly on taking part in a quiz at the Lord Nelson pub and answering the question: Which horse won the 1968 Grand National? That would be Red Alligator!
For all those who love a bet, the National is one of few races where you can hit the jackpot for a small sum. Why? Well, over the years there have been 5 winners at 100/1. How about a cheeky £10 bet to win £1000? Now, that would be a story worth telling.
There have been so many twists and turns. Horses which should never have won. Horses and jockeys who defied the odds. People who won and lost a fortune betting.
This year's Grand National will tell another story waiting to be told.
Yours.