How Are the Grand National Runners Chosen?
Grand National Runner Selection Process
In early February, a longlist of around 100 potential Grand National runners is announced. These horses are chosen based on their previous form in races such as the Cheltenham Gold Cup and the Irish Grand National. The final field of 34 runners is then selected by a panel of experts, taking into account factors such as the horse's age, weight, and recent form.
Key Dates in the Grand National Selection Process
* **Early February:** Longlist of around 100 potential runners is announced. * **Mid-March:** Final field of 34 runners is selected. * **April:** Grand National takes place at Aintree Racecourse.
Factors Considered in Runner Selection
* **Previous form:** Horses with a good record in races such as the Cheltenham Gold Cup and the Irish Grand National are more likely to be selected. * **Age:** The ideal age for a Grand National runner is between 8 and 11 years old. * **Weight:** Horses carrying more weight are at a disadvantage, so lighter horses are more likely to be selected. * **Recent form:** Horses that have been in good form in the lead-up to the Grand National are more likely to be selected.
2024 Grand National Runners
The final field of 34 runners for the 2024 Grand National has not yet been announced, but some of the horses that are likely to be in contention include: * Noble Yeats (winner of the 2022 Grand National) * Ahoy Senor (winner of the 2023 Cheltenham Gold Cup) * L'Homme Presse (winner of the 2022 Irish Grand National) * Galvin (winner of the 2022 Savills Chase) * Conflated (winner of the 2022 Irish Gold Cup)
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