The Grand National 2023 begins today and the weather will dominate the thoughts of Aintree’s racegoers.
With spring in the air, punters will be hoping for some sunshine for the day of racing and celebration. However, it looks like the weather will be more mixed than some might like.
The Met Office have forecasted that the opening day will sadly start with rain at 8am. Thankfully, those travelling to Aintree by train at this time will be sheltered on the new Merseyrail trains, which began service on the Ormskirk line on Monday just in time for the Grand National.
READ MORE: Grand National 2023: dates, tickets and how to watch on TV
From 9am to 6pm, there will be clouds and showers with sunny intervals and gusty winds, so taking an umbrella is advisable. After 6pm, the showers will clear up but clouds will remain.
The Met Office have said Thursday’s temperature will hover between 7°C-9°C but it will actually feel like just 2°C to 6°C. Opening Day will feature six races with the gates opening at 11am. The times are as follows:
1.45pm - The Racehorse Lotto Manifesto Novices’ Steeple Chase (Class 1) Grade 1
2.20pm - The Jewson Anniversary 4-y-o Juvenile Hurdle (Class 1) Grade 1
2.55pm - The Aintree Bowl Steeple Chase (Class 1) Grade 1
3.30pm - The William Hill Aintree Hurdle (Class 1) Grade 1
4.05pm - The Randox Foxhunters’ Open Hunters’ Steeple Chase
4.40pm - The Close Brothers Red Rum Handicap Steeple Chase (Class 1) Grade 3
5.15pm - The Goffs UK Nickel Coin Mares’ Standard Open NH Flat (Grade 2)
Get the latest Grand National news straight to your inbox
READ NEXT:
Parties, people watching and toilet requests- living on Aintree's doorstep on Grand National weekend
Grand National 2023: Biggest and dramatic moments at Aintree over the years
Which is the best day to attend Aintree's Grand National Festival?
2023 Grand National: Full list of entries as 73 remain on course for Aintree
53 reasons why the Grand National is the greatest race in the world
