About Aintree Racecourse

About Aintree Racecourse

The first official flat fixture at Aintree was held in 1829. The course was situated on property owned by Lord Sefton at the time and had to be leased out to the race organisers. Aintree’s first jump fixture was held 6 years later in 1835 which was won by Lottery. The Grand National was first known as the Grand Liverpool Steeplechase and was first run in 1836. The race was changed to a handicap chase in 1843 by Edward William Topham and soon became one of the most prestigious sporting events in Britain.

Tough Times for the Grand National

Ownership of the Aintree Racecourse during the 1960s was subject to constant speculation, and in 1973 the property was sold to Bill Davies. The Grand National suffered low attendance records during the 70s as ticket prices increased drastically over the years. The Jockey Club Racecourses bought the course from Davies and provided much needed stability for the future of the Grand National at Aintree.

Mildmay Track

Aintree racecourse has a second jumps track called the Mildmay track, named after Lord Mildmay. The track opened in 1953, featuring National Hunt fences and hurdles, and is now used for most jump races at Aintree.