BBC SPORT | Special Events | 2001 | Grand National

The home of the Grand National retains a special place in the hearts of all racing followers, as David Holding explains.

Few moments in sport can be as tense and exhilarating as when the runners line up at Aintree one Saturday afternoon in early April for the start of the world's greatest steeplechase.

During the 15 minutes that follow, seemingly anything is possible.

Tragedy and disappointment, spectacular falls, false-starts and bomb-scares can mar the spectacle for countless numbers of people.

But they'll be back at Aintree the following spring in body or spirit to see the vivid array of colours' cavalry charge to the first.

"... and as they cross the Melling Road with two to jump... "

Hearing John Hanmer's unique wavering voice say these words stirs the hearts of people all over the world who love the magic of the Grand National.

Fallen by the wayside

If your selection isn't up with the leaders now, it's all over.

After almost four miles, most of the field has fallen by the wayside and usually only a handful are still in with a chance.

Along the way, no-hopers from the Czech Republic, middle-aged amateurs, perennial housewives' favourites and a few well-fancied mounts may well have come a cropper.

Red Rum's last resting place at Aintree
A rank outsider will have led for a circuit before blowing up and trying to pull out past the grandstand.

Meanwhile, a canny, seasoned pro' will have lobbed round for a circuit before making his way steadily through the field and will be poised to strike.

Not a dry eye

This is the classic way to win a National, perfected by the legendary Red Rum, now buried by the winning post.

And who can forget his huge apple eyes opening wide with amazement at the sheer audacity of Rag Trade as "Rummy" battled in vain against a crippling weight to get back on terms in 1976?

Not a dry eye in the house - and tears of joy the next year, when he made it three wins.

"... the winner's going to come from one of these six... "

Word that have millions "riding out" their selections in front of the TV.

For some, the long run-in past the elbow will see the kind of gallantry and heartbreak epitomised by Suny Bay, Durham Edition, Spartan Missile and, above all, Devon Loch.

For one horse only, it will mean boundless celebration and eternal fame.

Fewer still will enjoy the kind of legendary status achieved by Aldaniti, Foinavon, Golden Miller and, of course, "Rummy" himself.

The National remains the ultimate test of a horse and rider's stamina, strategy and sheer determination.


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