All you need to know about the Scottish Grand National

The Scottish Grand National is the biggest and richest horse race north of the border and one of the most popular in the UK. We take a look at some of the facts and figures relating to this famous race.

What is the Scottish Grand National?

The Scottish Grand National is a Grade 3 National Hunt steeplechase open to runners aged five years or more. The total distance of the race is approximately 4 miles (exact measurement is 3 miles, 7 furlongs and 176 yards). During the course of the race there are 27 fences which need to be negotiated and it is a handicap race meaning that each horse is carrying a different weight, this being allocated by the handicapper.

When does the Scottish Grand National take place?

The Scottish Grand National generally takes place in April, usually the Saturday following the Aintree Grand National and it is part of the two-day Scottish Grand National Festival. The 2020 renewal was cancelled – along with all other horse racing meetings at the time – due to the Covid19 outbreak. The 2021 race has been delayed by 24 hours to avoid clashing with the funeral of Prince Philip.

When and where did the first Scottish Grand National take place?

The first ever Scottish Grand National was held in 1858 at a course close to Houston in Renfrewshire. Known as the ‘West of Scotland Grand National’, it consisted of 32 jumps of which the majority were actually stone walls. The race moved to Bogside Racecourse in 1867 and at this point the distance was 3 miles. This was later extended to 3 miles and 7 furlongs. With the closure of Bogside Racecourse in 1965, the race moved to its current venue at Ayr the following year and it was increased in length to its current length of a little under 4 miles at this point.

Has any horse won both the Grand National and Scottish National in the same year?

The only horse ever to win both the Aintree Grand National and the Scottish Grand National in the same year was the legendary Red Rum in 1974.

What is the prize money?

The winning horse of 2019 – Takingrisks – won £122,433. In comparison, the winner of 1867 received £100.

What horses have been confirmed for the 2021 Scottish Grand National?

You can find details of all the runners, trainers, jockeys, colours and best betting odds for the 2021 race by visiting our Scottish Grand National Runners & Riders page.

Where can I watch live?

Full coverage of the afternoon racing on Scottish Grand National Day (Sunday, 18th April 2021) will be provided by ITV.

Where can I buy tickets?

There will be no admittance for the general public this year due due to the continued Covid19 restrictions, however tickets will be released for the 2022 Scottish National later this year. We will be the first to provide details of where you can buy tickets for the 2022 event and due to its popularity, these are certain to sell extremely fast.