Book Review

The Grand National - Aintree's Official Illustrated History

Reg Green

(c) Virgin Publishing, 9/11/00

The Grand National by Reg Green

Reg Green was born in Liverpool, and still lives a stone's throw away from the racecourse - he has seen every race since 1946!

He is the Grand National Official Historian, and adviser to the Aintree Racecourse Company - from the moment you pick up this book, you understand why.

The combination of stunning and unique photography on every page, as well as historic artworks and information, works a treat.

He discusses the formation of the race, and how it nearly came to an end in 1960. He describes Aintree itself, charts a course around the 16 obstacle circuit and examines the role of Liverpool, the Monarchy, the media, and overseas connections.

He examines the classic horses - who can forget the marvellous Red Rum - classic jockeys, and classic trainers.

Facts such as why Becher's Brook got its name, and the amusing action photographs of the demise of Devon Loch only 50 yards from the winning post are just a couple of the fasinating and informative extracts from this book which keep coming and coming.

Finally, he provides summary tables of every race showing the first four home, and their starting prices - in itself an enlightening piece of information!

This book is a must have for any racing fan, indeed any sports fan or historian! There is no photo finish here - an excellent read!

Please click here to view Virgin Publishing's site

The book is for sale at both Amazon.co.uk and Virginbooks.com. The link for Amazon below is a direct one, whereas the Virgin one directs you to the main site, which must then be searched ("Grand National" brings it up immediately)

  • Amazon.co.uk (UK): Click here
  • Virgin Books : Click here

Click here to see a list of the results over the years

Click here to view some interesting facts about the race

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