Legendary Horses of the Grand National

Securing victory in the Grand National is a monumental achievement, but for some exceptional equine athletes, winning it multiple times elevates them into the realm of legends.

Throughout the esteemed history of this iconic event, spanning back to its inception in 1839, only a few horses have etched their names into the annals of greatness by triumphing more than once.

This year, all eyes are on Corach Rambler, poised to potentially join this elite group when he graces the turf at Aintree next month.

With favourable odds of 6/1, as per the National betting 2024, the Lucinda Russell-trained contender stands as a formidable force and a worthy contender to retain the coveted title.

In anticipation of this year’s renewal, let’s delve into the illustrious company Corach Rambler seeks to join as a multiple-time Grand National winner, should he emerge victorious in the ‘race the world stops to watch’ on April 13. 

Tiger Roll

Gordon Elliott’s Tiger Roll made history as the latest horse to claim back-to-back victories in the Grand National, triumphing in both the 2018 and 2019 editions.

Entering the fray as a 10/1 contender in 2018, Tiger Roll’s success was anticipated — buoyed by his impressive performance at the Cheltenham Festival earlier that year.

He continued his dominance the following year, solidifying his status as a true champion of the sport with an almost three-length win over Magic Of Light.

Red Rum

Trainer Ginger McCain’s Red Rum remains unparalleled in Grand National history, securing victory an unprecedented three times in 1973, 1974, and 1977.

Overcoming formidable challenges and rewriting records, Red Rum’s remarkable achievements continue to inspire awe and reverence among racing aficionados.

The legendary horse is immortalised at Aintree Racecourse, as he is buried at the winning post of the Merseyside track. 

Reynoldstown

Irish-bred horse Reynoldstown etched his name into the annals of Grand National history by clinching victory in consecutive years, triumphing in 1935 and 1936.

Despite facing tough competition, Reynoldstown’s tenacity and skill propelled him to back-to-back victories — cementing his legacy in the sport.

Manifesto

Manifesto’s remarkable record of eight Grand National appearances is a testament to his enduring legacy in the sport.

Clinching victory on two occasions in 1897 and 1899, Manifesto’s resilience and skill were remarkable and solidified his status as a true champion.  

The Colonel

Joining the ranks of back-to-back winners, The Colonel’s victories in 1869 and 1870 underscored his exceptional talent and determination.

The Colonel won the 31^st edition of the Grand National at odds of 13/1, beating Hall Court and Gardener by three lengths. 

He would return to Aintree the following year, this time with much shorter odds of 4/1 — beating The Doctor and Primrose to defend his crown. 

Abd-El-Kader

In the history books as the first dual winner of the Grand National, Abd-El-Kader secured back-to-back victories in 1850 and 1851. 

Trained by Joseph Osbourne, Abd-El-Kader’s diminutive stature — which earned him the nickname ‘Little Ab’ — belied his undeniable talent. 

As Corach Rambler prepares to etch his name alongside these legendary champions, the anticipation and excitement surrounding the 2024 Grand National reach a fever pitch. 

With a legacy of greatness to uphold and history in the making, the stage is set for an unforgettable showdown and who knows who will prevail in the horse race betting?