The Grand National at Aintree is a highlight in the calendar and the world’s greatest steeplechase event.
It’s so unpredictable and the huge field navigating several testing jumps means that it’s anyone’s guess as to who will win. Plenty of shocks have been produced and this year could be similar.
The 2024 race will take place on Saturday, April 13 at Aintree in Liverpool, but the process leading up to the big event begins now.
One key factor in who wins will be the weight. Carrying less weight than your rivals can make all the difference in the race, which uses the handicap system to level the field and give everyone the best chance.
The horse carrying the most weight will be the highest rated in the British handicapper’s eyes – this season’s King George winner Hewick looks likely to be burdened with that honour.
Grand National odds can be found on the Paddy Power website and Paddy Power app, otherwise, everything you need to know is below.
Who won the Grand National in 2023?
Last year’s Grand National winner was Corach Rambler who benefited from carrying 10st 5lbs.
How many horses are entered for the Grand National 2024?
94 horses hold entries for the Grand National, but only a maximum final field of 34 runners are permitted.
This is down six from the usual 40 and is one of several measures implemented by the BHA to help improve safety.
When are the Grand National weights published?
The handicapper ratings are crucial in deciding which horses stand their ground and make the field.
The highest weight a horse can carry in the Grand National is 11st 12lbs, while the lowest weight is 10st 2lbs. We saw a number of horses running from out of the handicap – being rated 25lbs inferior to the top-rated runner – in 2023, although the reduced field size for this year means that is unlikely to be repeated.
The Grand National weights are published on Tuesday, February 20. That is a crucial date as no penalties can be incurred afterwards.
Read More on the Grand National 2024
- Gallop over to Paddy Power News for all the latest horse racing tips
- When is the Grand National 2024? Aintree date, start time, runners and betting
- Grand National entries: Corach Rambler heads 94 in contention for Aintree 2024
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