NOT many Mares have been able to compete in the Grand National over the years, so it is no surprise that the last victory from a female horse was 73 years ago.
But how many Mares have won the Grand National so far?
PAJockey Kielan Woods with Mare Diva Luna after winning the Mare Race of the Grand National 2024[/caption]
How many Mares have won the Grand National?
Only thirteen Mares have won the Grand National since the first ever race in 1839.
In the first Grand National in 1839, there were three Mares competing.
The three horses were called Charity, Paulina, and The Nun.
The Nun came seventh, while Paulina was the top-placed mare in third.
Charity did not finish, but eventually won two years later in 1841 as first ever Mare to win.
Which Mares have won the Grand National?
When Charity won, she set a trend for Mares winning the Grand National.
However Nickel Coin was the last Mare to claim victory in 1951.
Here is the list of all the 13 Grand National winning mares:
Charity (1841)
Miss Mowbray (1852)
Anatis (1860)
Jealousy (1861)
Emblem (1863)
Emblematic (1864)
Casse Tete (1872)
Empress (1880)
Zoedone (1883)
Frigate (1889)
Shannon Lass (1902)
Sheila’s Cottage (1948)
Nickel Coin (1951)
Male horses are typically stronger, taller and bigger than female horses, which makes it easier for them to complete the Grand National race.
This means that they are more physically able to deal with the enduring nature of the Aintree Racecourse.
The temperament of the horses is also important when racing.
Mares are more calm than male horses, which means that they are less aggressive during the race than their male competitors.
Which Mares are in the Grand National 2024?
From the 34 horses competing in the Grand National 2024 only two are Mares.
Limerick Lace is seven years old and its horseman is Mark Walsh.
Mark Walsh’s manager told RacingTV about his client racing a Mare: “Mark had a difficult decision to make as he liked Meetingofthewaters at Cheltenham as well.
“It was a difficult decision but he’s gone with the mare anyway, so he’s hoping she’ll get the trip.”
Galia Des Liteaux is eight years old and is racing her first Grand National.
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