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A winner a record three times in the Grand National, Red Rum is a true Aintree legend.

His victories in 1973, 1974 and 1977 cemented his place in Grand National history.

Owned by Noel Le Mare and stabled behind trainer Ginger McCain’s Southport car dealership, Red Rum trained on Southport sands and was the first horse since Reynoldstown in the 1930’s to win back to back Grand Nationals.

Red Rum’s association with Aintree began in 1967 when he made his debut appearance in the Thursby Plate race, where he finished in a dead heat with Curlicue.

In his first Grand National victory in 1973 Red Rum had to come from behind to beat Australian horse Crisp.

In 1974, despite starting as 11-1 third favourite he ran to victory leading the field in the closing stages of the race.

Red Rum training on Southport beach

Red Rum raced again in the 1975 and 1976 Grand Nationals, coming second in 1975 to L’Escargot and second again in 1976 to Rag Trade.

Many thought Red Rum’s chance of a third victory had passed when he was entered as a 12 year old in the 1977 race.

Ginger McCain had planned the whole season to ensure that Red Rum was at his best for the Grand National.

Soon after Becher’s Brook ‘Rummy’ took the lead and won the race to tumultuous cheering.

Injury forced Red Rum to retire days before the 1978 Grand National.

In retirement Red Rum returned to Aintree many times to lead the parade of horses before the big race.

Red Rum died on 18 October, 1995 at the age of 30 and was laid to rest with his head facing the Aintree winning post.