Origins Of Hunt Racing

National Hunt Racing, or 'steeplechasing' as it is more popularly known, originated from the ancient sport of hunting. Historically the horses used would have needed the speed, confidence and ability to clear any obstacles they met in the open…

Red Rum Illuminates Blackpool

Most of us are familiar with the Blackpool Illuminations, in fact they're more popular today then ever with over 3.5million fans expected to turn up in 2011 to witness the light spectacular whilst generating over £275m for the area - that's…

“Well, That’s Racing”

In 1956 one of the most dramatic Grand National incidents took place when Devon Loch, 45 metres from the finishing line and in the lead, suddenly appeared to jump and fall over. Devon Loch, owned by the Queen Mother and riden by Dick Francis…

500K Grand National Win

Wonder horse Silverbirch helped one Irish man to a half million euro win after the 2007 Grand National. The unnamed married man staked his cash on a four horse accumulator and included the grand national in his bet. During a lunch break he…

Female Jockey Winner?

Actress Elizabeth Taylor famously won the Grand National in 1945 riding "The Pie" to victory. We must point out that the victory only occurred in the film 'National Velvet' and not on the official course, unfortunately Liz was stripped of her…

Beginners Luck?

In 1924 the Old Etonian and Grenadier Guard Lord Manners of Foston claimed, in the Times Literary Supplement, that he only rode in two races in his life and, quite amazingly, he won them both. So what were these races? They were the 1882…