The Grand National at Aintree is more than just a horse race—it’s an unpredictable, dramatic, and often emotional spectacle that has captured the imagination of racing fans for nearly two centuries. David Easson has picked out the most memorable Grand Nationals: the Top 10 best renewals of The World's Greatest Steeplechase.
Held annually at Aintree in Liverpool, The Grand National has delivered some of the most unforgettable moments in horse racing history. From incredible comebacks to dramatic pile-ups, these ten races stand out as the most memorable Grand Nationals of all time.
1. Red Rum’s Third Victory (1977)
No list would be complete without mentioning Red Rum. His third victory in 1977 cemented his status as the greatest Grand National horse ever. Having already won in 1973 and 1974, the 12-year-old produced a stunning performance to make history.
No horse has since matched his feat.
2. Foinavon’s Shock Win (1967)
One of the biggest surprises in Grand National history, 100/1 outsider Foinavon took advantage of a mass pile-up at the 23rd fence, leaving him as the only horse still running.
By the time the others recovered, he was too far ahead to catch.
3. Aldaniti and Bob Champion (1981)
This race was pure Hollywood. Jockey Bob Champion had overcome cancer, and his horse Aldaniti had battled back from serious injury. Their emotional triumph inspired the film Champions and remains one of the most uplifting moments in sporting history.
4. The Void Race (1993)
One of the most controversial Grand Nationals ever, the 1993 race was declared void after a false start fiasco. A significant number of jockeys didn’t realise the race had been stopped and completed the course.
It was an embarrassing but unforgettable moment in Grand National history.
5. Devon Loch’s Collapse (1956)
The race seemed won. Devon Loch, owned by the Queen Mother, was leading comfortably on the run-in when he inexplicably collapsed just short of the finish line, allowing ESB to steal victory.
To this day, nobody knows exactly why he fell.
6. Neptune Collonges Wins by a Nose (2012)
One of the closest finishes in National history, Neptune Collonges edged out Sunnyhillboy by just a nose. The photo finish provided incredible drama, as it was the first time a Grand National had been decided by such a fine margin.
7. Tiger Roll’s Back-to-Back Victories (2018 & 2019)
Tiger Roll became the first horse since Red Rum to win consecutive Nationals, with victories in 2018 and 2019. His performances drew comparisons to the legendary Red Rum, and many believed he could have gone for a third win in 2020 had the race not been cancelled due to the pandemic.
8. Mr Frisk’s Record Time (1990)
Mr Frisk set a record for the fastest-ever Grand National, completing the course in 8 minutes 47.8 seconds, a time that still stands. The ground conditions were unusually firm, helping him achieve an unparalleled speed over the 4-mile-plus distance.
9. Mon Mome at 100/1 (2009)
The National is known for its surprises, and Mon Mome provided one of the biggest. At 100/1, he became the first horse since Foinavon to win at such long odds.
His 12-length victory stunned racing fans and made bookmakers very happy.
10. Corbiere Makes History (1983)
Corbiere became the first Grand National winner trained by a woman, Jenny Pitman. It was a landmark moment for women in racing and showcased the brilliance of Pitman’s training ability.
The victory was as significant as it was thrilling.
And This Year?
The Grand National is a race full of drama, emotion, and history. Whether it’s incredible comebacks, shock victories, or heart-breaking defeats, each running of the race brings something unforgettable. With every renewal, another chapter is added to the rich tapestry of this iconic event.
What are your favourite Grand National memories? And what's your pick for this year?
Let us knows in the comments!
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