They may have been altered over the years but the Aintree fences are still the most difficult test in National Hunt racing. David Easson looks at the highlights of the Aintree course.
The Grand National at Aintree is the world’s most famous steeplechase, known for its gruelling test of stamina, skill, and bravery. The 4-mile 2½-furlong course features 30 fences, many of which have gained legendary status due to their size, difficulty, and the drama they have caused over the years.
Some of these obstacles have become household names, shaping the race’s history and producing some of the most unforgettable moments in horse racing. Here’s a look at the most notable fences on the Grand National course.
1. Becher’s Brook (Fence 6 & 22)
The most famous fence in the Grand National is named after Captain Martin Becher, who fell here in the first-ever race in 1839 and took shelter in the brook beneath the fence.
• Notorious Drop: The fence looks relatively straightforward from the take-off side (4ft 10in high), but the steep drop on the landing side catches many horses off guard.
• Famous Incidents: Over the years, Becher’s Brook has caused numerous falls and has been modified several times for safety reasons, though it remains one of the most feared fences on the course.
2. The Canal Turn (Fence 8 & 24)
Named because it is positioned near the Leeds and Liverpool Canal, this fence is famous for the sharp left-hand turn that follows immediately after the jump.
• Unique Challenge: Horses must clear the 5ft high fence and then quickly adjust their stride for the 90-degree turn—those that fail to turn sharply risk running out of the race.
• Famous Incidents: In 1928, 41 of the 42 runners fell before this point, leaving Tipperary Tim as the unlikely winner.
3. Valentine’s Brook (Fence 9 & 25)
This fence, originally called Second Brook, was renamed after a dramatic leap by the horse Valentine in 1840, which supposedly jumped sideways over the obstacle.
• Similar to Becher’s Brook: It features a water-filled ditch on the landing side, making it a difficult fence to negotiate.
• Tough but Fair: It doesn’t cause as many fallers as Becher’s Brook but still plays a crucial role in shaping the race.
4. Foinavon (Fence 7 & 23)
This unassuming 4ft 6in fence became legendary in 1967, when a mass pile-up allowed 100/1 outsider Foinavon to gallop past the chaos and win the race.
• Easiest Jump, Biggest Drama: It is one of the smallest fences on the course, but its placement has led to major upsets, especially in 1967, when a loose horse caused mayhem.
• Now Named in Honor: The fence was renamed Foinavon in 1984 to commemorate his famous victory.
5. The Chair (Fence 15)
One of the most daunting and formidable fences, The Chair is 5ft 2in high with a 6ft wide ditch on the take-off side, making it the tallest jump on the course.
• Only Jumped Once: Unlike most fences, The Chair is only tackled on the first circuit of the race.
• Famous Incidents: In 1979, jockey Bob Champion was nearly killed after falling at The Chair—he went on to win the race just two years later in 1981 with Aldaniti.
6. The Water Jump (Fence 16)
The final fence of the first circuit, the Water Jump is 2ft 9in high, but what makes it tricky is the wide stretch of water immediately behind it.
• Deceptively Challenging: It may be smaller than the others, but a misjudged landing can still cause falls or unseated jockeys.
• Only Jumped Once: Like The Chair, the Water Jump is not included on the second circuit, meaning the remaining fences focus purely on stamina and endurance.
How Have the Fences Changed Over Time?
While Aintree’s fences remain some of the toughest in horse racing, modifications have been made for safety over the years:
• Becher’s Brook and Valentine’s Brook have had their drops reduced.
• Core materials have changed from solid timber to more forgiving plastic birch.
• Wider bypass areas have been introduced, allowing fallen horses and jockeys to be avoided.
These changes have helped reduce injuries while keeping the Grand National as thrilling as ever.
The Grand National course is steeped in history, with its fences playing a huge role in shaping the race. From the perilous drop at Becher’s Brook to the daunting height of The Chair, each jump presents a unique challenge that tests both horse and jockey.
With every passing year, new stories unfold at these iconic fences—who will write the next chapter in Grand National history?
Comments