Punters soak up sun for Grand National finale
Last year's winner I am Maximus, ridden by jockey Paul Townend, will be racing in the event, with hopes for a repeat of its 2024 success.Punters have been enjoying the spring sunshine at the races, with the popular Ladies Day on Friday coming on the year's hottest day so far.
The first Saturday race began at 13:20, with the last set of horses to bolt from the traps at 17:35.Trevor Wand, 62, from Donington in Lincolnshire, was at Aintree for his 15th Grand National and wore a shirt and tie adorned with racehorses.He said: "It's just a great day out. The atmosphere's fantastic and weather like this - can't beat it."I have a different shirt every year. This year I've done different because I've got a tie."I've told all my mates, because there's about 15 of us, I told all them 'shirt and tie this year' and they all think 'what's he going to wear?'."
Emily Pickles, 20, and Saoirse Duffin, 19, said they were "so excited" after getting up at 06:00 to travel from Halifax in West Yorkshire with five friends for their first Grand National.Ms Duffin: "I'm more here for the vibes and drinking with my friends but I will put a few bets on."Asked for any racing tips, Ms Pickles "Just have a bloody good time."
Jess Jones, 35, from Oxton, Wirral, said the atmosphere and the dresses make Aintree special.She added: "Sunshine, prosecco, what more do you need?"
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