Around 500 million worldwide viewers are expected to tune into the world's most famous horse race, as up to 40 jockeys don their racing colours and jump 16 fences in the hope to bag the £1million prize at the Grand National 2022.
However, it isn't just the main event which attracts enormous attention, the three-day Grand National meeting features many races and some of the world's best horses. Thursday, 7 April, will be NHS Day at Aintree, marking the efforts of staff during the pandemic with the racecourse donating 10,000 Grand National Thursday tickets to NHS workers across Merseyside.
Though crowds will be smaller, 35,000 people are still expected to come through the turnstiles and will be treated to seven top-class races. While some study the form book, many get in on the action for fun and just take a punt on a horse with a nice name. Nonetheless, racing will start at 1:45pm and attracts runners from National Hunt yards from both the UK and Ireland.
Read more: How to place a bet on the Grand National 2022
Best each-way bets
Bowl Steeple Chase (14:55)
The race has been won by the starting favourite in each of the last three outings, with star power looking to be the determining factor. Cheltenham Gold Cup third Protektorat (10/3) will face eight rivals including two former winners of the race.
Kemboy out at 5/1 looks a good each-way bet, aiming to emulate Wayward Lad and First Gold as the third horse to regain their crown, after a win in this race three years ago.
Aintree Hurdle (15:30)
A high point of the day and indeed the entire festival, this race promises to be a tight one. Though Epatante (7/4) was a terrific second in the Champion Hurdle behind Honeysuckle, look to back Monmiral trained by Paul Nicholls at 10/1 each-way.
Having raced seven times over hurdles and won five of them, the Sir Alex Ferguson co-owned horse looks good value.
Which finishing places will bookies pay out on?
Typically, bookies will pay out on three places each-way on the Bowl Steeple Chase (14:55), but only two for the Aintree Hurdle (15:30). This is because there are fewer runners in the latter.
Claim your Grand National free bet
Simply register with Betfred, place a £10 wager on any race at Aintree and you will be credited with £60 in free bets and bonuses*!
*18+, new UK customers only, T&Cs apply.
