- Football
- Horse Racing
- Sports
- Free Bets
- Betting School
- Bookie Reviews
- Casinos
- Free Bingo
- Promos
- Six Nations Tips
Few races in the United Kingdom in either race format can match the Grand National when it comes to producing unforgettable winners. Despite the fact that many Grand National winners were not classified as thoroughbreds the stories behind their wins have ensured that their legends endure.
Moifaa – 1904
Moifaa can take credit for being the first racehorse to establish the tradition of Grand National winners overcoming tremendous odds on their way to the Grand National Winner’s title. Legend has it that Moifaa was lost at sea when the ship transporting him from New Zealand to England sank. Apparently the horse was later discovered in good health on an island miles away from the shipwreck. When Moifaa went on to win the 1904 Grand National by eight lengths it created a sensation amongst the British public, and the horse was promptly purchased by King Edward VII for his stud farm.
Manifesto – 1897, 1899
Manifesto was the racehorse behind one of the most famous moments in Grand National history. After a slow start in jump racing, Manifesto claimed his first Grand National winner’s title in 1897. Two years later Manifesto ran the race that would make him famous. On the first circuit of the 1899 Grand National, Manifesto fell at the Canal Turn fence. To the crowd’s astonishment the horse rose from this life-threatening fall and chased down the race leader before taking the Grand National by several lengths.
Red Rum – 1973, 1974, 1977
Arguably the most famous Grand National winner, Red Rum’s story is the stuff of legend. The bay gelding was believed to be past his prime and half-lame from pedalostitis when purchased by Liverpool car dealer Ginger McCain in 1972. Under McCain’s care and with the assistance of training sessions in the surf of Southport beach, Red Rum made a full recovery before going on to win the Grand National three times in five years.
Aldaniti – 1981
1981 Grand National winner Aldaniti was involved in one of the most famous races of the previous century. The Chestnut gelding, who had for many years struggled with leg injuries during an unremarkable racing career, teamed up with jockey Bob Champion for the 1981 Grand National. Bob Champion was battling cancer at the time, and few gave the 11 year old horse and his ailing rider any chance of emerging from the fray as Grand National winners. Together the duo defied the odds, defeating clear favourite Spartan Missile to earn themselves instant stardom and a horde of adoring fans.
All original material is Copyright © 2001-2012 Gambling Guru Networks. Other content, images and trademarks are owned by respective parties.
UK Betting Guide supports Responsible Gambling initiatives. Visit GamCare, GambleAware or Gamblers Anonymous for more info.