The Irish Grand National is one of the world's most popular and exciting horse races, with a history spanning over 150 years. It takes place every year at Fairyhouse Racecourse near Dublin, Ireland, and attracts an enthusiastic crowd of spectators from all over the country. The race is unique in combining flat racing and steeplechasing - two very different disciplines - into one thrilling event. This makes for an incredibly exciting spectacle as the jockeys navigate their way around a challenging course while competing against each other for the prestigious title of Irish Grand National Champion. In recent years, the popularity of this event has grown exponentially due to its high-stakes betting opportunities and its intense atmosphere. With millions being wagered on each race day, it's no wonder why so many people flock to Fairyhouse each year to witness this legendary competition firsthand!
The First Irish Grand National Champion
The first Irish Grand National was held on February 28th, 1870, at the Fairyhouse Racecourse in County Meath. It was won by Sir Robert Peel's horse, The Duke. The race was run over a distance of three miles and five furlongs, with twenty-two fences to be jumped. A total of sixteen horses competed in the inaugural running of the race, with only four completing the course. The winning time was recorded as 19 minutes and 10 seconds. Since then, the Irish Grand National has become one of Ireland's most prestigious races and is now run annually on Easter Monday each year.
Famous Horses and Jockeys Who Have Won the Irish Grand National
The first horse worth mentioning is War Of Attrition, which won in 2006 under jockey Robbie Power and trainer Mouse Morris. This was a very emotional victory for both men as they had lost their friend and mentor, Tony "Bucko" O'Neill, just weeks before the race. War Of Attrition went on to become a champion chaser, winning two Cheltenham Gold Cups as well as an Irish Hennessy Gold Cup in 2007.
Another impressive performance came from Hedgehunter in 2005, ridden by Ruby Walsh and trained by Willie Mullins. Hedgehunter led from start to finish, despite having suffered a serious injury earlier that year, which meant he couldn't take part in any other races until then. His win was an inspiring story of determination and resilience which captured hearts across Ireland.
We can't forget to mention Rince Ri, who became only the second mare ever to win the Irish Grand National back in 2002 under jockey Paul Carberry and trainer Tom Taaffe. She went on to become one of Ireland's top steeplechasers, with her efforts being rewarded with a bronze statue outside Punchestown Racecourse, where she made her debut victory all those years ago.
Some of the most notable recent winners of the Irish Grand National was the 2017 winner Our Duke, ridden by Robbie Power and owned by Mrs. John Harrington. In 2016, Rule The World won the race with jockey David Mullins on board and Michael O'Leary as owner. Finally, in 2015 the Irish Grand National was won by Thunder And Roses with Mark Walsh as a jockey and Michael O'Leary as owner.
What is the Record Time for Completing an Irish Grand National Race?
Bobbyjo was ridden by Tony McCoy and trained by Tommy Carberry, who also won the race with L'Escargot in 1975. The record time for completing an Irish Grand National race is 8 minutes and 47.8 seconds, set by Bobbyjo in 1999. This record has stood since then, making it one of the longest-standing records in horse racing history.