Grand National Course: Left-handed, very galloping, flat.

Aintree's Grand National Course is the  most famous racecourse in the world! In the big race itself, a prominent position is essential, particularly if the ground is good or faster. Those horses who struggle to go the early pace often find themselves with a mountain to climb to catch-up. The Becher Chase, run earlier in the season, is run at a more sedate pace, which allows horses to come from behind.

Mildmay Course: Left-handed, sharp, flat.

A unique test in its own right. Horses need be fast and accurate at their fences as races are run at a flat out gallop. Front runners have a fair record, but the long home straight allows horses who are tracking the leader to come through and win.

Notable Races:

National Course - Grand National; Becher Chase - run in November and a significant trial for the Grand National.

Mildmay Course - Melling Chase; Betfair Bowl; Anniversary 4yo Novices’ Hurdle; Sefton Novices’ Hurdle; Maghull Novices’ Chase; Aintree Hurdle - all Grade 1 races run at the Grand National meeting in early April.

Bettingpro Notes: Horses that have excelled at the Cheltenham Festival often flop here (and at short prices too!) due to a combination of lack of recovery time and totally different conditions - look to take them on!