The Grand National at Aintree is more than just a race; it’s a crucible of drama, a test of endurance, and a stage for the utterly unexpected. For over 180 years, since its inception in 1839, this legendary steeplechase has captivated audiences with its thrilling chaos, but also with moments that defy explanation.
One of the most haunting mysteries unfolded in 1956. Devon Loch, owned by Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother, was leading by a considerable margin, poised for victory with just 40 yards remaining. Right before the royal box, the horse inexplicably collapsed, crumpling to the ground without a stumble or a fall. Despite speculation of a cramp or even a heart attack, the cause remains unknown to this day, prompting the Queen herself to famously remark, “Oh that’s racing!”
The 1967 race descended into what was described as “farce” after a loose horse triggered a massive pile-up at the 23rd fence, eliminating many of the frontrunners. From the wreckage emerged an unlikely hero: Foinavon, a 100/1 outsider ridden by John Buckingham. Buckingham skillfully navigated the chaos, securing a stunning victory that immortalized both horse and rider – so much so that the fence now bears Foinavon’s name.
In 1993, a staggering £75 million in bets and 300 million television viewers worldwide braced for the Grand National, only to witness a debacle. Animal rights protestors invaded the course, followed by a series of false starts caused by tangled starting tape. Thirty riders mistakenly began the race after a second false start, oblivious to the recall. Esha Ness crossed the finish line first, but the race was declared null and void, forcing bookmakers to refund a staggering £15 million.
The spectacle at Aintree isn’t always confined to the horses. In 2011, two friends decided to make their own statement, stripping off in front of the crowd before being escorted away by stewards. Their antics, resulting in an £80 fine, couldn’t distract from Ballabriggs’ eventual win, but added another layer of the unexpected to the day’s events.
Brutal conditions defined the 1928 Grand National. Misty weather and a heavy course led to nearly every rider falling at some point. Only two horses completed the race: Tipperary Tim, ridden by amateur jockey William Dutton, and Billy Barton, remounted by Tommy Cullinan. It remains the race with the fewest finishers in Grand National history.
The 1997 race was dramatically delayed by a bomb threat. Threatening calls, reportedly using IRA codewords, were made to a nearby hospital and police control room, triggering a full evacuation of the racecourse. The unusual decision was made to reschedule the event for the following Monday, as crowds spilled onto the track during the evacuation.
Even the jockeys themselves sometimes harbor surprising secrets. Sean Bowen, who rode in last year’s race, revealed a peculiar allergy – he’s allergic to horses. Despite the discomfort of itching and sneezing, Bowen persevered, finishing a respectable eleventh, proving that dedication can overcome even the most unusual obstacles.
