The 178th running of the Grand National is set to captivate horse racing enthusiasts once again, as 34 declared runners prepare to face the daunting fences of one of the world's most celebrated steeplechases. Taking place at Aintree Racecourse in Liverpool, the event is scheduled for Saturday, April 11, 2024, with the horses expected to start racing at 4 p.m. British Summer Time (BST). This iconic race, steeped in history since its inaugural running in 1839, promises excitement and drama as the competitors tackle the challenging 4-mile-plus course.
One of the key storylines this year is the absence of last year's winner, Nick Rockett, who was forced to withdraw earlier in the week due to a bout of coughing. This unexpected development has reshaped the betting market, elevating the French-bred bay gelding I Am Maximus to the status of favorite. Trained by the renowned Irish handler Willie Mullins, I Am Maximus is among eight horses from Mullins' stable participating in this year's Grand National, underscoring the trainer's strong presence in the field.
Another horse attracting significant attention is Panic Attack, trained by Dan Skelton. This mare is widely tipped to make history by becoming the first female horse to win the Grand National in 75 years. Her bid adds an intriguing dimension to the race, as fans and experts alike watch to see if she can defy the long odds and break a decades-long drought for mares in this demanding race.
The Grand National's global appeal is reflected in its broadcasting arrangements, allowing fans from various countries to follow the action live. In the United Kingdom, viewers can watch the race free of charge on the free-to-air channel ITV1. Coverage on ITV1 begins at 12:45 p.m. BST on race day, leading up to the main event at 4 p.m. Additionally, the race will be available to stream for free on ITV's online platform, ITVX. This streaming service is user-friendly and accessible on a wide array of devices including Chromecast, desktop computers, iOS and Android smartphones, Roku, Sky Glass, and Xbox consoles, making it convenient for viewers to tune in from virtually anywhere in the UK.
For audiences in the United States, the Grand National will be broadcast live by FanDuel Sports Network. FanDuel is accessible through various cable, satellite, and streaming television providers, offering a range of options for viewers to catch the race. Subscriptions to FanDuel's streaming service can also be purchased directly or added as an extra to an Amazon Prime Video subscription. The monthly cost for this service starts at $20, providing an affordable way for fans to enjoy the race live.
For those traveling abroad who wish to watch the Grand National but face regional viewing restrictions, the use of a Virtual Private Network (VPN) is a strategy some consider. A VPN can encrypt internet traffic, enhance privacy, and help bypass geo-blocks by connecting to servers in the viewer's home country. This can be especially useful when accessing streaming services away from home or when using public Wi-Fi networks. VPNs are legal in many countries, including the US and Canada, and can be employed for legitimate privacy and security purposes. However, it is important to note that some streaming platforms have policies against VPN use to enforce content licensing agreements, so users should check the terms of service of their chosen platform before relying on a VPN.
One highly recommended VPN provider is ExpressVPN, known for its reliability and broad device compatibility. The service typically costs $120 per year, but an annual subscription is currently available for $90, which includes three months free-effectively making the price $6 per month. ExpressVPN also offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing users to try the service risk-free. This makes it a popular choice among sports fans who want a secure and dependable way to stream international events like the Grand National.
In Canada, horse racing enthusiasts can watch the Grand National live through Sportsnet. This network is widely available via most Canadian cable operators. For those who prefer streaming or do not have cable, Sportsnet also offers a standalone streaming service called Sportsnet Plus. This service comes in two tiers: the Standard package, which costs $30 per month or $250 annually, and the Premium package, priced at $43 per month or $325 per year. Additionally, there is a four-month subscription option available for $120, providing flexible access to the channel's live sports content.
Australian fans will be able to enjoy the Grand National free of charge via Racing.com. The event will be broadcast live on the Racing.com TV channel and streamed through the Racing.com website, ensuring accessibility for viewers across the country.
The Grand National's enduring popularity is a testament to its rich history and the unique challenge it presents to horses, jockeys, and trainers alike. The race's course features a series of formidable fences, including the famous Becher's Brook, The Chair, and Canal Turn, which test the skill, stamina, and courage of all participants. Navigating these obstacles over a distance of more than four miles requires not only speed but also strategic riding and resilience, making the Grand National one of the most thrilling and unpredictable events in the horse racing calendar.
This year's race carries the added anticipation of a potential milestone if Panic Attack succeeds in becoming the first mare to win since 1949. Meanwhile, I Am Maximus's favoritism has sparked interest in how Willie Mullins' stable will perform with its strong representation. The withdrawal of the defending champion Nick Rockett has opened up the competition, increasing the unpredictability and excitement surrounding the 2024 Grand National.
As the race day approaches, fans around the world will be preparing to witness this historic event, whether from the comfort of their homes or while on the move. With multiple viewing options spanning traditional broadcast and modern streaming platforms, the 178th Grand National promises to be an accessible and thrilling spectacle for horse racing aficionados and newcomers alike.
In summary, the 178th Grand National is scheduled for Saturday, April 11, 2024, at Aintree Racecourse in Liverpool, starting at 4 p.m. BST. Thirty-four horses will compete over a challenging 4-mile course.
I Am Maximus is the favorite after last year's winner Nick Rockett withdrew due to illness. Panic Attack, a mare trained by Dan Skelton, is poised to potentially become the first female winner in 75 years. The race will be broadcast live for free in the UK on ITV1 and ITVX, on FanDuel Sports Network in the US, Sportsnet in Canada, and Racing.com in Australia.
Streaming options are available across all regions, with VPNs recommended for international viewers facing geo-restrictions. The Grand National continues to be a storied and eagerly anticipated event in the horse racing world, combining tradition, challenge, and global appeal.