The Grand National is one of the most prestigious and iconic horse races in the world, drawing attention from millions of fans, punters, and sports enthusiasts every year. Held annually at Aintree Racecourse in Liverpool, England, the race is renowned not only for its challenging course but also for its rich history and the sheer unpredictability that comes with it.
The 2025 Grand National will be no different, as it promises to showcase a collection of elite runners competing for the coveted £1 million prize. With its famous obstacles, such as Becher’s Brook and the Canal Turn, the race remains one of the most demanding tests of a horse’s stamina, agility, and bravery.
In this article, we will take a deep dive into the Grand National runners of 2025, breaking down the key contenders, the history of the race, and the factors that influence who might come out on top. Whether you’re a seasoned racing fan or a newcomer to the world of horse racing, this guide will help you understand everything you need to know about the upcoming Grand National race and its runners.
The Grand National: A Brief History
The Grand National has been a fixture of British sporting culture since 1839 when the inaugural race took place. Over the years, it has grown in stature, becoming one of the most-watched sporting events in the world. Held on the first Saturday in April, the Grand National is a race like no other, due to its unique combination of distance, obstacles, and the number of runners.
The Unique Course of Aintree
The race takes place over a distance of 4 miles and 514 yards (about 7.2 kilometers) and features 30 jumps. These jumps include some of the most famous obstacles in racing, such as Becher’s Brook, The Chair, and Canal Turn, all of which are notorious for causing horses to stumble or fall.
This challenging course has led to the Grand National’s reputation for unpredictability, where even the best-trained horses can be knocked out of contention by the unforgiving nature of the track. The race is run on turf and typically attracts a large field of runners, with as many as 40 horses sometimes taking part.
Key Contenders for the 2025 Grand National
As we approach the 2025 Grand National, there are a number of horses that have emerged as potential winners based on their form in previous races, their suitability for the course, and their performances in the lead-up events. Let’s take a closer look at the top Grand National runners and what makes them strong contenders for the coveted title.
Noble Yeats
One of the most anticipated horses for the 2025 Grand National is Noble Yeats. Having made an incredible impression in the 2022 Grand National, where he finished in first place, Noble Yeats will be aiming to become a dual Grand National winner. Trained by Emmet Mullins, Noble Yeats is known for his consistent form and ability to handle the tough obstacles at Aintree.
Trainer: Emmet Mullins
Owner: Robert and Margaret (also known for their involvement with the horse’s career)
Key Performance: Winner of the 2022 Grand National
Strengths: Strong stamina, solid jumping ability, previous success in the race.
Given his experience in the Grand National and his impressive performances in other races, Noble Yeats is undoubtedly one of the top contenders for the 2025 race.
Delta Work
Delta Work, a veteran horse trained by Gordon Elliott, has earned a reputation for his skill in navigating tough courses. He has a strong career in major races, including victories in the Cross Country Chase at Cheltenham. His jumping ability and consistency make him a natural for the Grand National course, where his endurance will be key to his chances.
Trainer: Gordon Elliott
Key Performance: Winner of the Cross Country Chase at Cheltenham.
Strengths: Exceptional stamina, good form in endurance races.
Delta Work’s experience in big races and his ability to handle a course like Aintree put him in the mix for the 2025 Grand National title.
Any Second Now
Any Second Now is another horse that has been in the Grand National conversation for several years. Trained by Ted Walsh, he has been a consistent performer, and many fans remember his impressive third-place finish in the 2021 Grand National. With experience in the race and a strong competitive edge, Any Second Now will be looking to improve on his previous efforts.
Trainer: Ted Walsh
Key Performance: Third place in the 2021 Grand National.
Strengths: Strong jumping ability, consistent performances.
Having already proven himself in the Grand National, Any Second Now is well-suited for the challenges of the Aintree course and will be a major contender in 2025.
Tiger Roll (Retirement Pending)
No discussion of Grand National runners would be complete without mentioning Tiger Roll, a legendary horse who has dominated the race in the past. The 2021 Grand National winner has become a national hero for his two Grand National victories in 2018 and 2019. However, as of 2025, Tiger Roll has been retired from competitive racing. His performances, especially his back-to-back victories, have earned him a place in Grand National history.
Trainer: Gordon Elliott
Key Performance: Two-time Grand National winner in 2018 and 2019.
Strengths: Unmatched form, excellent jumping ability, tenacious spirit.
Though Tiger Roll will not be racing in 2025, his legacy continues to influence the expectations around future Grand National runners.
Longhouse Poet
Longhouse Poet is a rising star in the world of National Hunt racing. Under the guidance of Martin Brassil, he has demonstrated considerable promise, particularly with a series of impressive performances in major races leading up to the 2025 Grand National. His stamina and durability are his strongest assets, making him a serious contender.
Trainer: Martin Brassil
Key Performance: Consistently strong showings in endurance races.
Strengths: Stamina, solid form in long-distance races.
Longhouse Poet is a horse that is well-suited to the rigors of the Grand National and is likely to be a strong challenger for the 2025 title.
The Key Factors Influencing the Grand National Runners
Several factors determine which horses will succeed in the Grand National. Understanding these variables is key to predicting potential winners.
Jumping Ability: The Grand National’s 30 obstacles require horses to be exceptional jumpers. Horses that can clear Becher’s Brook, The Chair, and other notorious jumps without losing momentum are usually more likely to finish the race strongly. Horses that have a history of performing well in similar events (e.g., Cross Country Chases) tend to fare better in the Grand National.
Stamina: The 4-mile-2-furlong distance is one of the longest in National Hunt racing. Horses that excel in long-distance races, like Noble Yeats and Delta Work, have the stamina necessary to handle this grueling test.
Course Experience: Aintree’s demanding course can catch out horses that are not accustomed to its unique challenges. Having previous experience at Aintree or in similar races gives horses a valuable edge, as they know how to navigate the twists and turns of the track.
Trainer and Jockey Expertise: The trainer’s experience with the Grand National, along with the jockey’s skill in guiding horses through the tough conditions, is another crucial factor. Trainers such as Gordon Elliott, Emmet Mullins, and Ted Walsh have a wealth of experience at Aintree, which increases their horses’ chances of success.
The Grand National Runners to Watch in 2025: Full List
Here are additional runners to keep an eye on for the 2025 Grand National:
Le Milos: Another talented runner trained by Dan Skelton, known for his jumping ability.
Escaria Ten: A consistent performer, trained by Gordon Elliott, and always competitive in major handicaps.
Ramses de Teillee: A strong staying horse with experience at Aintree.
Fiddlerontheroof: A rising star with strong form in stamina-heavy races.
The Road to Glory for the 2025 Grand National Runners
The 2025 Grand National is shaping up to be an exhilarating race, with a strong field of contenders vying for glory. Horses like Noble Yeats, Delta Work, and Any Second Now will be among the favorites, but with the unpredictable nature of the race, anything can happen. For fans and punters alike, the Grand National remains a spectacle of sport, where history is made, and dreams are realized. Whether you’re backing your favorite or simply enjoying the drama of the race, the 2025 Grand National promises to be a memorable occasion.
FAQs
Who are the runners in the Grand National?
The Grand National runners are the horses that compete in the race. Each year, the field consists of 40 runners (though this can vary), chosen based on their eligibility and performance in qualifying races. These horses range from seasoned veterans to exciting newcomers, and they come from various stables around the UK and Ireland.
How are Grand National runners selected?
Grand National runners are selected based on a set of criteria that include age, weight, previous performance, and form in qualifying races. Horses must be aged 7 or older to run. They must also have a certain rating (usually 120 or above) to ensure that the horses are capable of handling the challenging race. Once these criteria are met, horses enter into a pool, and a final field of 40 runners is decided.
What are the odds of each Grand National runner?
The odds of each runner are determined by bookmakers based on factors like past performances, the horse’s training, jockey experience, and other factors such as the ground conditions on race day. Leading up to the race, these odds fluctuate as more information becomes available, especially as the final lineup is confirmed.
What is the best horse to bet on in the Grand National?
Betting on the best horse is always a challenge, given the unpredictable nature of the race. However, horses that have shown consistent form in previous races, performed well over similar distances, or have a strong trainer and jockey pairing tend to be favorites. It’s essential to stay updated on the horses’ recent form and conditions leading up to the race.
Can horses run in multiple Grand Nationals?
Yes, horses can compete in multiple Grand Nationals, provided they meet the qualifying criteria each year. Some horses have made a name for themselves by running in multiple Grand Nationals, with a few even winning more than once. However, the demanding nature of the race often means that many horses only run once in the event.
In Summary
The Grand National is more than just a horse race; it’s a thrilling spectacle filled with history, unpredictability, and raw athleticism. Understanding the runners, how they’re selected, and what makes each one unique helps fans and bettors get the most out of the experience. With its dramatic course, iconic fences, and the dream of backing a winner, the Grand National remains one of the most anticipated events in the sporting calendar.
Whether you’re watching for the excitement, placing a bet, or simply enjoying the tradition, knowing more about the Grand National runners gives you a front-row seat to the drama and glory of this world-famous race. Stay tuned to the latest updates, do your research, and enjoy the ride because in the Grand National, anything can happen.
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