The Start There is a hazard to overcome even before the race starts - the build up, parade and re-girthing prior to the off lasts for around 25 minutes, over double the time it takes for any other race.
With 40 starters, riders naturally want a good sight of the first fence and after the long build-up their nerves are stretched to breaking point, which means the stewards' pre-race warning to go steady is often totally ignored.
Becher's Brook: Although the fence looks innocuous from the take-off side, the steep drop on the landing side, together with a left-hand turn on landing, combine to make this the most thrilling and famous fence in the horse racing world. The fence actually measures 6 ft 9 in on the landing side, a drop of 2 ft from take off.
Becher's Brook earned its name when a top jockey, Captain Martin Becher, took shelter in the brook after being unseated. "Water tastes disgusting without the benefits of whisky" he reflected.
The Chair: The final two jumps of the first circuit form the only pair negotiated just once - and they could not be more different. The Chair is both the tallest (5ft 3in) and broadest fence on the course, with a 6ft wide ditch on the take-off side.
Water Jump: This 2ft 9in fence brings the first circuit to an end and the sight of the runners jumping it at speed presents a terrific spectacle in front of the grandstands.
The Finish
The 494-yard long run in from the final fence to the finish is the longest in the country and has an acute elbow halfway up it that further drains the then almost empty stamina reserves of both horse and jockey.
For numerous riders over the years, this elongated run-in has proved mental and physical agony when the winning post seems to be retreating with every weary stride.
Don't count your money until the post is reached as with the rest of the Grand National course, the run-in can - and usually does - change fortunes.
The first official races at Aintree were set up by the vendor of Liverpool's Waterloo Hotel, Mr William Lynn. Mr Lynn let the land from Lord Sefton, laid out a course, built a grandstand and staged the first Flat fixture on July 7, 1829.
Aintree Racecourse is managed by Aintree Racecourse and is located in or near Aintree Village. You can see what other attractions are near Aintree Racecourse if you follow this link to other attractions and event locations in the area of Seftonon this website or you can get detailed information regarding opening times and other facilities if you follow this link to it's own website (if available)
Aintree racecourse is one of the premier racecourses in the UK. It is the home of The Grand National and almost all of the Grand National horse races have been run here with very few exceptions. The actual racing surface has undergone massive change since the first early races when there were hurdles as well as fences to be jumped and also at one stage a brick wall was amongst the obstacles, but in recent times there have only been minor changes to the track.
Grand National is one of the biggest sporting events on the calendar, it's also one of the most prestigious social events too. Whether you are searching for a unique venue to host business associates or simply wishing to celebrate a special day with friends and family, Aintree has a fantastic range of facilities to suit all of your requirements.
A room with a view Are you looking for something that little bit special for the John Smith's Grand National meeting? Give your social occasion a five star upgrade and get the full Aintree treatment in one of their exclusive private boxes. There are a range of packages on offer, each aptly named 'Chase', 'Hurdle' and 'Mildmay', meaning you can tailor your day to your own specific needs
To book your day at the 2008 John Smith's Grand National, and to find out more information about Aintree's Grandstand and hospitality enclosures, go to http://www.aintree.co.uk/
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