National Heroes

This is an account of the stars - both equine and human - who have given the world's greatest steeplechase, the Grand National, its huge appeal. From Lottery's win in the first race in 1839 to the present day there have been great stories associated with the race. Who was Captain Becher whose name lives on in Becher's Brook? Just what happened to Dick Francis and Devon Loch in the closing stages of the 1956 race? What was the secret behind Red Rum and Ginger McCain's incredible three National wins? How did Bob Champion and Aldaniti bring off one of the most emotional finishes in the history of the race?These are just a few of the stories from Reg Green's book. He recalls the three successive wins of Vincent O'Brien, the achievement of Jenny Pitman in training winners Corbiere and Royal Athlete and the late Fred Rimmel who trained an incredible four National winners. The redoubtable Mrs Topham whose family were associated with the race for over a century is recalled and so is the eccentric Dorothy Paget, owner of the great Golden Miller. The dramatic events of 1997 when a bomb scare led to the postponement of the race and which brought the Aintree spirit to the fore are portrayed in this tribute to a unique sporting event.