The Grand National in horse racing is considered to be the most famous steeplechase in the world. Millions tune in to the race every year, in what is a huge tradition on the sporting calendar in the UK.
Here is everything you need to know about the meeting, and what are the leading storylines heading into the 2022 renewal of the race.
When does it take place?
Aintree Racecourse in Liverpool hosts the Grand National annually. This year’s race falls on Saturday, 9th April. It takes place on the final day of the meeting at 5.15 pm.
Is Tiger Roll entered this Year?
If you loosely follow horse racing or you have watched the Grand National in recent years, you are likely to have heard of Tiger Roll. He won the race in 2019 and 2020.
Before he lines up at Aintree, Tiger Roll will feature in the Cross Country Chase where he is 6/1 in the betting to score. Those looking to back the dual Grand National winner should consider a Cheltenham offer 2022, as you may be able to pick up a free bet or odds boost on the race.
Tiger Roll is a five-time winner at the Cheltenham Festival. His participation in the 2022 Grand National may depend on how well he fares in the Cross Country Chase in March at the Cheltenham, a race he has won on three occasions, including in 2021.
Victory in the 2022 Grand National will help the Irish horse match the record for the most wins in the marathon contest. Red Rum is currently the only horse in history to have won the race three times, once in 1973, again in 1974 and finally in 1977.
Who won the race in 2021?
History was made in 2021 as Rachael Blackmore became the first female jockey to win the Grand National when she rode Minella Times to success at odds of 11/1. The pair prevailed by just over six lengths ahead of Balko Des Flos, Any Second Now and Burrows Saint respectively.
Minella Time has an entry again in 2022 where he will be looking to emulate Red Rum and Tiger Roll as the only horses to be able to successfully defend their crown. He is likely to have more weight on his back this time as he has a higher official rating now.
How many runners will feature in 2022?
There is a maximum field of 40 runners allowed to line up in the Grand National. That full allocation is expected to be filled in 2022. There will be reserve runners who will take the place of horses who pull out 48 hours prior to the race.
Of the 40 runners, Grade One winner Galvin is the 14/1 favourite, as he looks to prevail on his debut in the race.
Are tickets still available?
Tickets are still available for three days of the Grand National Festival at Aintree, including the big day on the Saturday. A crowd of just over 70,000 are expected to be in attendance for the famous race.
If you aren’t lucky enough to get a ticket or able to travel to Aintree, the race is broadcast on ITV in the UK and is also shown in various countries around the world.
The 2022 Grand National looks set to be another special occasion. It will be the 174th running of the steeplechase. Enjoy the race, whether you are going to Aintree or watching at home.
