As Aintree’s gates open once more in 2025, the Grand National returns, bringing with it the drama, tradition, and unpredictability that make it one of the world’s most famous horse races.
For nearly two centuries, its gruelling four-mile course and thirty formidable fences have tested the courage and skill of both horse and rider, creating moments of triumph and heartbreak that define the sport.
This year’s renewal promises another thrilling chapter, with past champions seeking glory again, rising stars daring to dream, and racing fans gathering to witness history unfold if I Am Maximus can live up to expectations from horse racing tips and join an exclusive list of double-winning horses with Paul Townend.
The role of the jockey in the Grand National cannot be overstated. In a race where split-second decisions can mean the difference between victory and disaster, a rider’s ability to judge pace, position their horse, and navigate the unique challenges of Aintree’s fences is crucial.
Some of the greatest jockeys in recent history have shown just how much skill, bravery, and intelligence it takes to win this legendary race.
As the roar of the crowd builds and the runners approach the start, we turn our attention to the exceptional jockeys who have mastered Aintree’s toughest challenge in more recent editions of the race.
Richard Dunwoody
Richard Dunwoody’s mastery of Aintree’s challenges produced triumphs aboard West Tip (1986) and Miinnehoma (1994), rides characterised by tactical brilliance and perfect positioning. His remarkable spatial awareness—finding racing room where none appeared to exist—and feather-light hands preserved precious energy for the gruelling final furlongs, making him a consummate Aintree specialist across 16 National rides.
Leighton Aspell
After briefly retiring in 2007, Leighton Aspell’s career renaissance culminated in consecutive Grand National victories aboard Pineau De Re (2014) and Many Clouds (2015). His patient, sympathetic riding style and economy of movement proved perfectly suited to Aintree’s demands, with his ability to settle excitable horses proving invaluable amidst the cauldron of National day atmosphere
Davy Russell
Davy Russell’s partnership with Tiger Roll delivered consecutive victories in 2018 and 2019, joining the legendary Red Rum in winning back-to-back Nationals.
His rides combined technical excellence with profound equine understanding, demonstrating an aptitude for judging pace over extreme distances that few could match, while his hands, soft yet authoritative, established perfect harmony with his diminutive but lion-hearted partner.
AP McCoy
The story of AP McCoy and the Grand National is one of perseverance. After 14 attempts without victory, including notable near misses on Clan Royal and Butler’s Cabin, McCoy’s persistence paid off in 2010 when he triumphed aboard Don’t Push It, trained by Jonjo O’Neill and owned by J.P. McManus.
His illustrious career included major wins such as the Cheltenham Gold Cup, Champion Hurdle, Queen Mother Champion Chase, and King George VI Chase, but the National had always eluded him until that year.
This victory not only filled the most significant gap in his illustrious career but also led to McCoy becoming the first jockey to win the BBC Sports Personality of the Year award.
His emotional reaction at Aintree that day highlighted the profound significance of conquering racing’s most challenging event after years of relentless pursuit
