Who Are The Biggest Outsiders To Win The Grand National?
The Grand National is often dubbed the most unpredictable race in the horse racing calendar, and for good reason. With a gruelling four-mile-plus distance, 30 daunting fences, and a massive field of runners, chaos is always just a stumble away.
While favourites have triumphed, the history of the Grand National is littered with tales of long-shot heroes who defied the odds and galloped into the record books.
Below, we explore some of the biggest outsiders to ever win the Grand National, remarkable stories that continue to captivate and inspire racing fans across generations.
Mon Mome – 100/1 (2009)
Perhaps the most famous modern example, Mon Mome stunned the racing world in 2009 by winning at odds of 100/1. Trained by Venetia Williams and ridden by Liam Treadwell, the French-bred gelding powered clear to win by 12 lengths.
It was a historic day, making Williams only the second woman to train a Grand National winner and launching Treadwell’s career into the spotlight.
Foinavon – 100/1 (1967)
No list of shock Grand National winners is complete without Foinavon. In 1967, a mass pile-up at the 23rd fence, now famously named after him, allowed the rank outsider to tiptoe through the chaos and claim a remarkable victory.
Jockey John Buckingham, a late replacement, kept his cool while others floundered. It was the ultimate underdog moment, immortalised in racing folklore.
Caughoo – 100/1 (1947)
Coming from the lesser-known Irish stable of Herbert McDowell, Caughoo took advantage of foggy conditions and confusion on the course to win the 1947 Grand National at long odds.
Ridden by Eddie Dempsey, his win was steeped in controversy, with rumours (never proven) suggesting he may have skipped part of the race due to the thick mist. Regardless of the whispers, his name is etched in National history.
Tipperary Tim – 100/1 (1928)
If there’s ever been a more dramatic Grand National, it was in 1928. Out of 42 starters, only two horses finished the race. Tipperary Tim, steered by amateur jockey William Dutton, avoided the carnage to emerge victorious.
His win marked the first-ever 100/1 winner in the race’s history and set a precedent for the chaos that defines the National.
Auroras Encore – 66/1 (2013)
Auroras Encore wasn’t completely off the radar, but few expected him to dominate the 2013 National like he did. Trained by Sue Smith and ridden by Ryan Mania, who was having his first ride in the race, the 11-year-old gelding won by an astonishing nine lengths, becoming a fan favourite overnight.
Why Do Outsiders Win So Often?
The Grand National’s unique nature opens the door to surprise winners. The extreme distance, massive field, variable ground, and uniquely challenging fences make it a great leveller. Even well-fancied horses can be undone by a single mistake or a blocked run, while lesser-known runners can shine under the right conditions.
Final Thoughts: The Allure of the Unexpected
In a sport often dominated by stats, form, and pedigree, the Grand National remains gloriously unpredictable. The stories of these outsiders, rank underdogs turned champions, are what make the race such a thrilling spectacle year after year. Whether you’re a seasoned punter or a casual fan, there’s always hope that the next 100/1 hero is just one jump away.
**The information provided in this blog is intended for educational purposes and should not be construed as betting advice or a guarantee of success. Always gamble responsibly.