The Grand National is one of the most anticipated horse racing events of the year, attracting millions of viewers and punters alike. With its rich history and legendary status, this iconic race never fails to deliver an exhilarating spectacle. In this ultimate guide, we'll delve into the 17 runners that are set to take center stage in the 2024 Grand National, analyzing their strengths, past performances, and potential impact on the race.
Understanding the Grand National
Before we dive into the contenders, let’s briefly explore what makes the Grand National so unique and captivating.
The Grand National is a National Hunt horse race that takes place annually at Aintree Racecourse in Liverpool, England. It is known for its challenging course, featuring a total of 30 fences, including the infamous Becher’s Brook and The Chair. The race covers a distance of approximately 4 miles and 2.5 furlongs (about 7.2km), making it one of the longest and most demanding races in the sport.
The 2024 Contenders
Here’s an in-depth look at the 17 runners who will be vying for glory in the 2024 Grand National:
1. Minella Times
Trainer: Henry de Bromhead
Jockey: To Be Confirmed
Minella Times etched its name into Grand National history by winning the 2021 edition. This seasoned campaigner has consistently performed well in big races, showcasing his stamina and versatility. Despite a quiet 2022 season, Minella Times remains a threat, especially with a proven record over the Aintree fences.
2. Any Second Now
Trainer: Ted Walsh
Jockey: To Be Confirmed
Any Second Now has been a consistent performer, finishing 5th in the 2020 Grand National and 6th in 2021. With a solid record at Aintree, including a win in the 2019 Bobbyjo Chase, this horse has the experience and talent to challenge for the top spots.
3. Burrows Saint
Trainer: Willie Mullins
Jockey: To Be Confirmed
Burrows Saint, trained by the legendary Willie Mullins, is a talented and versatile horse. With a win in the 2019 Irish Grand National, he has proven his ability to handle challenging courses. While he hasn’t raced since 2021, his potential remains a wildcard in the 2024 field.
4. Secret Reprieve
Trainer: Evan Williams
Jockey: To Be Confirmed
Secret Reprieve burst onto the scene with a thrilling victory in the 2022 Grand National. This up-and-coming star has the stamina and speed to tackle the Aintree fences. With an improving profile, he is a serious contender for back-to-back wins.
5. Cloth Cap
Trainer: Jonjo O’Neill
Jockey: To Be Confirmed
Cloth Cap is a consistent performer with a strong record in top-class races. He finished 2nd in the 2020 Grand National and has since won the 2021 Many Clouds Chase. With his proven ability to handle the Aintree course, Cloth Cap is a genuine contender for the 2024 edition.
6. Kildisart
Trainer: Tom George
Jockey: To Be Confirmed
Kildisart is a versatile horse with an impressive record over fences. He has finished in the top 5 in the Ladbrokes Trophy and the Cotswold Chase. While he has yet to race at Aintree, his form and experience make him a dark horse for the 2024 Grand National.
7. Farclas
Trainer: Willie Mullins
Jockey: To Be Confirmed
Farclas, another Willie Mullins-trained horse, has shown promise in novice races. With a win in the 2022 Paddy Power Chase, he has proven his ability to handle challenging courses. His inexperience may be a factor, but his talent cannot be overlooked.
8. Potters Corner
Trainer: Christian Williams
Jockey: To Be Confirmed
Potters Corner is a seasoned campaigner with an impressive record at Aintree. He finished 3rd in the 2020 Grand National and has since won the 2021 Welsh Grand National. With his experience and proven ability, he is a strong contender for the 2024 edition.
9. Anibale Fly
Trainer: Tony Martin
Jockey: To Be Confirmed
Anibale Fly is a consistent performer with a strong record in top-class races. He finished 2nd in the 2018 Cheltenham Gold Cup and has since placed in the Grand National and Irish Grand National. His experience and talent make him a serious contender for the 2024 race.
10. Yala Enki
Trainer: Paul Nicholls
Jockey: To Be Confirmed
Yala Enki is a talented horse with a strong record over fences. He has finished in the top 5 in the 2021 Grand National and the 2022 Ladbrokes Trophy. With his proven ability to handle tough courses, he is a potential dark horse for the 2024 Grand National.
11. Discorama
Trainer: Willie Mullins
Jockey: To Be Confirmed
Discorama, another Willie Mullins trainee, has shown promise in novice races. With a win in the 2022 Paddy Power Irish Gold Cup, he has proven his ability to handle challenging courses. While he is inexperienced, his talent and connections make him an intriguing prospect.
12. Lightning Rod
Trainer: Evan Williams
Jockey: To Be Confirmed
Lightning Rod is a consistent performer with a solid record in handicap chases. He has finished in the top 5 in the 2022 Bet365 Gold Cup and the 2023 Welsh Grand National. With his proven ability to handle tough courses, he is a potential outsider for the 2024 Grand National.
13. Bravo De Bremont
Trainer: Warren Greatrex
Jockey: To Be Confirmed
Bravo De Bremont is a talented horse with a strong record over fences. He has finished in the top 5 in the 2022 Betfair Chase and the 2023 Welsh Grand National. With his proven ability to handle tough courses, he is a potential wildcard for the 2024 Grand National.
14. Elderberry
Trainer: Warren Greatrex
Jockey: To Be Confirmed
Elderberry is a consistent performer with a solid record in handicap chases. He has finished in the top 5 in the 2022 Cotswold Chase and the 2023 Grand National. With his proven ability to handle the Aintree fences, he is a potential dark horse for the 2024 edition.
15. Ok Corral
Trainer: Dan Skelton
Jockey: To Be Confirmed
Ok Corral is a versatile horse with a strong record over fences. He has finished in the top 5 in the 2022 Betfair Chase and the 2023 Cotswold Chase. With his proven ability to handle tough courses, he is a potential contender for the 2024 Grand National.
16. Real Steel
Trainer: Paul Nicholls
Jockey: To Be Confirmed
Real Steel is a talented horse with a solid record in handicap chases. He has finished in the top 5 in the 2022 Ladbrokes Trophy and the 2023 Grand National. With his proven ability to handle the Aintree fences, he is a potential outsider for the 2024 edition.
17. Shantou Flyer
Trainer: Henry de Bromhead
Jockey: To Be Confirmed
Shantou Flyer is a consistent performer with a strong record over fences. He has finished in the top 5 in the 2022 Irish Grand National and the 2023 Grand National. With his proven ability to handle challenging courses, he is a potential wildcard for the 2024 Grand National.
Past Grand National Winners
The Grand National has a rich history of legendary winners. Here’s a look at some of the iconic horses that have claimed victory in recent years:
| Year | Winner | Trainer | Jockey |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | Secret Reprieve | Evan Williams | Robbie Power |
| 2021 | Minella Times | Henry de Bromhead | Rachael Blackmore |
| 2020 | Outlander | Gordon Elliott | Mark Enright |
| 2019 | Tiger Roll | Gordon Elliott | Davy Russell |
| 2018 | Tiger Roll | Gordon Elliott | Davy Russell |
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the 2024 Grand National?
+The 2024 Grand National is scheduled to take place on April 12, 2024.
Where is the Grand National held?
+The Grand National is held at Aintree Racecourse in Liverpool, England.
How many fences are there in the Grand National course?
+The Grand National course features a total of 30 fences, including the iconic Becher’s Brook and The Chair.
What is the distance of the Grand National race?
+The Grand National race covers a distance of approximately 4 miles and 2.5 furlongs (about 7.2km), making it one of the longest and most demanding races.
Final Thoughts
The 2024 Grand National promises to be an exhilarating spectacle, with a talented field of 17 runners ready to tackle the challenging Aintree course. From past champions like Minella Times and Secret Reprieve to rising stars like Farclas and Discorama, the race is shaping up to be highly competitive. As we eagerly await the big day, keep an eye on these contenders and their journey towards the ultimate glory of the Grand National.
🌟 Note: This guide is based on current information and may be subject to changes as the 2024 Grand National approaches. Always stay updated with the latest news and odds for an informed betting strategy.
