The Grand National Steeplechase
The world has a Liverpudlian innkeeper by the name of William Lynn to thank for the existence of Britain's most prestigious handicap chase. Having achieved considerable success with hare racing, Lynn decided to introduce the sport of steeple chasing to Liverpool, and leased land at Aintree to host national hunt races. Historians recognise the running of the Grand National Steeplechase at Aintree in 1839 as the first official occurrence of the event. Whilst some historians dispute this date, and the early history of the race is clouded by uncertainty and speculation over the venues that hosted it, the history books record that Lottery was the winner of the inaugural Grand National at Aintree.
The Grand National At Aintree Racecourse
The racing facilities at Aintree are part and parcel of the Grand National legend. The 16 spruce covered fences which confront runners as they thunder across the historic Aintree turf are amongst the most feared in national hunt racing, and the only obstacles in the sport to have earned such notoriety that the have been individually named rather than numbered.
Grand National Legends
The history of the Grand National is littered with stories of heroism and courage, many of which have been celebrated in books and on the silver screen. The story of three-times Grand National winner Red Rum and his miraculous recovery from chronic Pedalostitis on the beaches of Southport, epitomises the fighting qualities of so many of the legendary racehorses and jockeys that have won this gruelling race.
Grand National Facts
The Grand National is run over a distance of 4 miles and 4 furlongs on the Grand National circuit at Aintree racecourse. Forty racehorses contest each race, with many of these failing to complete the two circuits of the Aintree Racecourse. Entry to the Grand National is restricted to 6-year old and above racehorses. The Grand National attracts the biggest television audience of any national hunt race, and hundreds of millions of racing fans from around the world tune into the event each year. The race is also the richest in national hunt racing, offering a purse of £900 000. In addition, the race is a significant betting event, with hundreds of millions of pounds wagered on its outcome every year.
Grand National Enclosures
Aintree Grand Stand Seats: These are the seats to have. Badges for the Grandstand include reserved seating, or roof top viewing and several fantastic facilities. There are a selection of designated bars and plenty of Tote betting facilities. There is also Big Screen viewing facilities. With the paddock and winners enclosure being close by, you can get as close to the action as you like. You will pay between £40 and £90 for these seats depending on which stand you choose. The stands are The Earl Of Derby and Lord Sefton Stand, Princess Royal Stand, Queen Mother Stand and The West Tip Seats.
The Steeplechase Enclosure: The Steeplechase Enclosure is opened only on Grand National day, and is intended to offer a relaxed, informal experience for race attendees on a budget. The site offers prime views of the early fences, as well as a variety of food, beverage and betting outlets. Your tickets will cost between £17 and £35 depending on which day of Aintree you are attending.
The Tattersalls Enclosure: Packed with facilities, the Tattersalls enclosure is the most popular venue with a tremendous atmosphere, and hence ideal to watch the Grand National from. The enclosure offers access to the Parade Ring and views over the final stretch of the race.
The Roof and Terraces: The Roof and Terraces offer a more formal experience of racing at Aintree. These sections of the grandstand offer excellent views over Aintree Racecourse, as well as designated bar services and race viewing on big-screen televisions.
Grand National - Admission Prices
Grand Stand Seats: £43 - £87 dependant on the day of racing and the are of this enclosure.
Princess Royal Stand Seats: £40 - £81 dependant on the day of racing.
Queen Mother Stand Seats: £40 - £81 dependant on the day of racing.
West Tip Stand Seats: £40 - £81 dependant on the day of racing.
Tattersalls and Steeplechase Enclosure: £17 - £35 dependant on the day of racing.
How To Get To The Grand National
Travelling to The Grand National By Road: The M6 provides access to vehicles travelling from the South of England. Junction 21A leads onto the M62 Westbound, which leads to Junction 6 onto the M57. The remainder of the route to Aintree Racecourse is clearly signposted on the M57. Travellers commuting to Aintree from the North can likewise follow the M6 to Liverpool, taking Junction 26 onto the M58. The remainder of the route to Aintree is clearly marked. For those of you with Sat Nav, just enter the postcode L9 5AS.
Travelling to The Grand National By Train: Travelling by train could not be easier. Aintree Racecourse can be conveniently accessed from Aintree Station. Tickets to Aintree Station can be purchased at Liverpool Station, which is in turn directly linked to major stations throughout the United Kingdom.
Aintree Racecourse Address
Aintree Racecourse
Ormskirk Road
Aintree
Merseyside
L9 5AS
Tel: 0151 5232600
Fax: 0151 5222920
Aintree Racecourse - Hotels and Accomodation
Here we will place full information and a website link to a recommended hotel near to Aintree racecourse. If you would like to advertise your Aintree Hotel on this website then please email us at tips@turftalkracingtips.co.uk.
Aintree Horse Racing Tips
2011 GRAND NATIONAL ADVICE
I am down to my short list of 6 horses:
BIG FELLA THANKS 18/1
KILLYGLEN 66/1
GOLDEN KITE 80/1
CAN'T BUY TIME 100/1
CHARACTER BUILDING 25/1
CHIEF DAN GEORGE 50/1
My preference is for BIG FELLA THANKS followed by KILLYGLEN and GOLDEN KITE at massive prices. I'm sure most of the Turf Talk members are awaiting the Scottish and Irish Nationals where we have a phenomenal record but I am hoping we can get a good result in the English National before taking the bookies to the cleaners in the Irish (tipped winner in 2009 and 2010 and coincidentally both horses Bluesea Cracker and Niche Market run on Saturday) and the Scottish where we tipped 1st and 2nd last year.