The Grand National is almost upon us as the sport gears up for the biggest Jumps race in the world.
It’s a race that is always difficult to call and there have been several upsets at Aintree over the last few years, although the defending champion Corach Rambler set off as one of the favourites last time and came home to the delight of bettors.
The 2024 Grand National is the highlight of the course’s three-day festival and takes place on Saturday, April 13 with the post time scheduled for 4pm.
This is an earlier start time compared to recent years after concerns were raised about the long build-up and marks one of several changes that have been made in order to improve safety.
You can watch all the action across all three days at Aintree on the Paddy Power website and Paddy Power app or on ITV1.
All the latest Grand National 2024 odds can also be found on the Paddy Power website and Paddy Power app, otherwise, here’s everything you need to know about the changes to this year’s race.
What changes have been made to Grand National for 2024?
The following changes have been implemented at Aintree for this year’s Grand National:
- The highest-profile measure introduced is the reduction in the number of runners from 40 to 34.
- Organisers have moved the start time forward, which will help to improve the ground at Aintree.
- The field will begin from a standing start in order to ensure the runners approach the first obstacle at a slower speed.
- The distance to the first fence has also been cut to help with the first jump.
- The 11th fence has also been reduced in height by two inches from 5ft to 4ft 10in and foam rubber toe-boards will be placed at the base of the jumping side of each fence.
- Changes have also been made to the alignment of the running railing allowing loose horses to be caught more easily.
Read These Next on the Grand National
- Gallop over to Paddy Power News for all the latest horse racing tips
- When is the Grand National 2024? Date and start time, runners and betting
- Grand National weights: Full list of Aintree 2024 handicap ratings
- Ruby Walsh: Cutting Aintree Grand National to 34 runners is a welcome move
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