Aintree stages only National Hunt racing and has two courses laid out on a large flat surface. The Grand National course is used to stage the famous race, as the horses travel left-handed and cover the 2 mile 2 furlong track twice. There is a run in of nearly 500 yards from the last fence and an elbow that must be negotiated. The fences are laid out in various styles and are perhaps the ultimate equine challenge.

The Mildmay course is used for all other fixtures, and is a sturdy test of jumping in its own right. The flat surface and tight turns mean most races are run at a healthy pace, and can play in favour of speedier horses. One circuit is just under 1 1/2 miles round, with the hurdles track on the outer of the chase course.


Check out our Grand National Betting Guide for the potential runners in the next Aintree classic.