The last five winners of the Grand National
Anticipation is starting to build for the upcoming renewal of the Grand National at the iconic Aintree Racecourse on April 13.
Corach Rambler is the favourite, with Willie Mullins’ I Am Maximus and the Gavin Cromwell-trained Vanillier follow at the fore of the Grand National odds 2024, but we know that favourites are not always the way forward in this prestigious race.
So, as the countdown continues, let's take a moment to reminisce about the remarkable triumphs of the last five winners.
These extraordinary horses and their connections have left a lasting mark on the Grand National’s rich history - each victory embodying the essence of determination, skill, and sheer racing brilliance.
Continue reading as we journey back through time and assess the five most recent thoroughbreds who have engraved their name on the Grand National’s roll of honour.
One For Arthur – 2017
In 2017, under the expert guidance of trainer Lucinda Russell and her trusty stable jockey Derek Fox, One For Arthur galloped into the spotlight.
Priced at 14/1, this courageous steed defied the odds, captivating the hearts of racing enthusiasts and etching its name in Grand National folklore.
One For Arthur jumped through to take over at the last and stayed on strongly for a historic success that saw him become just the second Scottish-trained winner of the Grand National.
Tiger Roll – 2018 & 2019
The incomparable Tiger Roll, trained by Gordon Elliott and piloted by Davy Russell, wrote its own chapter of greatness with back-to-back victories in 2018 and 2019.
Priced at 10/1 for his maiden success, the Gigginstown House Stud-owned horse won the 2018 renewal by a mere head from Pleasant Company in a thrilling race for the finish.
Tiger Roll returned 12 months later as the 4/1 favourite in the racing betting and beat 66/1 outsider Magic Of Light by a more comfortable two and three-quarter lengths.
Due to the 2020 Grand National being cancelled thanks to the pandemic and a disagreement over his allocated weight in both 2021 and 2022, Tiger Roll never got to attempt a third victory.
Minella Times – 2021
2021 marked a historic moment as Henry de Bromhead's Minella Times, ridden by the remarkable Rachael Blackmore, surged to victory.
Priced at 11/1, this six-and-a-half-length triumph not only showcased the horse's prowess but also made headlines as Blackmore became the first female jockey to conquer the Grand National.
“I don’t feel male or female,” the Cheltenham Gold Cup-winning jockey said after the race. “I don’t even feel human, I feel unbelievable.”
Noble Yeats – 2022
Emmet Mullins' Noble Yeats, guided by jockey Sam Waley-Cohen, delivered a fairytale ending to its jockey’s racing career in 2022.
Owned by Sam's father, Robert Waley-Cohen, this 50/1 outsider stunned the racing world — capping off its rider’s illustrious career and providing a fitting farewell for Sam, who announced his retirement earlier in the race week.
Noble Yeats attempted to retain his crown last year but could fare no better than fourth. However, he’s set to return to Aintree this year and is currently priced at 14/1 to regain the Grand National.
Corach Rambler – 2023
Lucinda Russell returned to Grand National glory in 2023 with Corach Rambler, once again partnered with jockey Fox.
As the 8/1 favourite, British racing needed someone to step up and halt Ireland's four-year winning streak — and Corach Rambler delivered.
The now 10-year-old led at the last and despite idling in the closing stages, was always doing enough to win by over two lengths from his nearest rival.
