The Grand National Weights Lunch took place at St George's Hall in Liverpool, marking the official allocation of weights for the 177th running of the Randox Grand National. The event featured live music performances, a gathering of prominent figures, and expert analysis of the contenders.
St George's Hall in Liverpool hosted a significant event on the 2025 horse racing calendar today with the Grand National Weights Lunch. This annual event marks the official allocation of weights for the 177th running of the Randox Grand National . Live music performances added to the festive atmosphere.
Self-taught Liverpool pianist Brad Kella enthralled attendees with a live recital, while Walton poet Emily Tootle captivated the audience with a piece she composed about the world's most renowned steeplechase.The unveiling of the weights is a pivotal moment in the Grand National buildup, as it determines the burden each runner will carry based on their ability and recent performance. The aim is to create a level playing field for all contenders, ensuring the world's greatest steeplechase remains a thrilling test of skill and stamina. The heavier the weight, the more challenging the race becomes. The handicapper, Martin Greenwood, sets the maximum weight at 11st 10lbs, with a minimum of 10st regardless of a horse's rating. The maximum weight is intended to prevent any horse from having an unfair advantage due to exceptional strength.The Randox Grand National 2025 takes place at Aintree Racecourse from Thursday, April 3 to Saturday, April 5. A total of 90 horses have been entered, with a stellar lineup of contenders vying for the coveted title. Last year's champion, I Am Maximus, carries a 6lb higher weight this year, while other notable contenders include William Hill Bowl winner Gerri Colombe, former King George victor Bravemansgame, and seasoned Grade 1 performer L’Homme Presse. Retired Grand National winner Neptune Collonges, who triumphed in 2012, was outside St George's Hall to greet attendees and members of the public. He was also announced as the latest inductee into the Grand National Hall of Fame, joining legendary names like Red Rum.The event attracted numerous prominent figures from the worlds of sport and entertainment, including boxing legend Natasha Jonas, presenter Sam Quek, and footballing icon John Barnes. Legendary jockey Ruby Walsh, who secured his first Grand National victory in 2000 on Papillon and added another triumph in 2005 on Hedgehunter, shared his early tip for this year's race. He expressed confidence in Inothewayurthinkin, currently priced at 12/1 with OddsChecker. Former jockey Tony McCoy, a record 20-time Champion Jockey and one of the world's greatest jump jockeys, echoed Walsh's sentiment, stating that he would choose to ride I Am Maximus again. Martin Greenwood, the British Horseracing Authority’s Chase Handicapper for races staged over two miles and seven furlongs or further, provided insightful commentary on the weights. He highlighted the exceptional quality of this year's entries, with a record number of horses rated 150 or more at the weights stage since 2020. Greenwood emphasized that the race is shaping up to be an even more competitive and prestigious event in the years to come, thanks to the recent changes made to the course.
Grand National Randox Grand National Horse Racing Weights St George's Hall Liverpool Aintree Racecourse Martin Greenwood Ruby Walsh Tony Mccoy I Am Maximus Neptune Collonges
United Kingdom Latest News, United Kingdom Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
The 2025 Randox Grand National Festival is the place to beTaking place from April 3 to 5, the festival is a much anticipated event at Aintree Racecourse
Read more »
Mullins Faces Tough Challenge to Defend I Am Maximus's Randox Grand National CrownChampion trainer Willie Mullins believes it will be difficult for his star runner I Am Maximus to win the Randox Grand National for the second consecutive year. The horse faces a heavier weight than his 2024 victory, but Mullins remains hopeful.
Read more »
Grand National 2025 weights live updates, betting odds and tips for AintreeThe Grand National 2025 Weights Lunch will be held at St George's Hall
Read more »
Grand National 2025 Weights Lunch sees stars and racing experts descend on St George's HallAmong the standout contenders are last year’s champion, I Am Maximus
Read more »
Mr Vango Triumphs at Haydock, Grand National Dream in SightMr Vango, a giant chaser, won the Sky Bet Peter Marsh Handicap Chase at Haydock Park, setting his sights on the Randox Grand National. Connections hope for 'Red Marauder' ground conditions for a potential dream bid at Aintree.
Read more »
Grand National Extends Culinary Partnership with Liverpool ChefThe Grand National Festival has announced the continuation of its partnership with renowned Liverpool chef Paul Askew. Askew, known for his acclaimed restaurant The Art School, will provide his exceptional culinary offerings for the next three years, elevating the race day experience for attendees.
Read more »