Most horse racing fans remember Red Rum. A name synonymous with the most famous steeplechase in the world: The Grand National. In fact, its history dates back to 1839. The race is held annually at Aintree Racecourse, Liverpool. This handicap steeplechase covers a distance of 4 miles 2 ½ furlongs. Two laps are run, 30 jumps, many with famous stories behind them including the infamous Chair.
The winning horse pockets over £500,000 in prize money.
Red Rum, trained by Ginger McCain, is the only horse to win this prestigious race three times in 1973, 1974 & 1976.
Being such a famous thoroughbred horse there a few facts we don’t know about this incredible horse. However, here are 5 things you may not know about Red Rum to add to his illustrious story.
1) He Never Fell Once
It’s a feat very few horses can proclaim. Red Rum, running on both the Flat and National Hunt, never fell in a 100-race career.
2) Debut Dead Heat – Over 5f
It seems remarkable that a horse which won over a distance of 4 mile 2 ½ furlong could win on the Flat over the minimum trip. That’s what Red Rum did on his debut, at Aintree, when they had both codes of racing, in a dead heat. Later, Aintree was dedicated to National Hunt racing. Red Rum continued his story with spectacular results, writing his name in the history books.
3) The Ultimate Double Act
You may be thinking I’m talking about Red Rum and his trainer Ginger McCain or jockeys Brian Fletcher or Tommy Stack. His owner Noel Le Mare deserves a mention too. However, we are talking about those early years on the Flat when Red Rum was twice ridden by Lester Piggott. In something that is akin to the Law of Attraction, his stable lad was comedian Lee Mack.
4) The Most Famous Horse in the World
There have been lots of famous horses but there is little doubt Red Rum is one of the best known and become a household name. While preparing for his sixth Grand National, he was retired following a canter at the course the day before, after suffering a hairline fracture while training for the big race. That evening, his retirement was the lead story on BBC 1 and made front-page news the following day. Red Rum became a celebrity in his own right opening supermarkets, selling merchandise, leading the Grand National Parade for many years. He appeared as a guest on BBC Sports Personality of the Year. He even switched on the Blackpool illuminations and had a roller coaster named after him.
5) He Transcended Life
Red Rum transcended life. His racing feats made him a name synonymous with the Grand National. He ran in the National on five occasions, with three wins and two runner-up positions. A life size sculpture of him can be seen at Aintree Racecourse. A true legend of horse racing, his story lives on in all who love the sport of kings.
In fact, Red Rum was buried at the winning post at Aintree Racecourse. He died at the age of 30.