Grand National revellers enjoy fun in the sun as celebs including Helen Flanagan descend on Aintree
THE sun is finally out, and temperatures are warmer than they’ve been in a long time.
And revellers at the Grand National Festival took full advantage of the change in weather as they cracked open bottles of bubbly and cheered on the thrilling races at Aintree on Saturday.
Helen Flanagan was among the familiar faces spotted in the crowds, and went for an unusually modest ensemble in pink and red.
The 34-year-old’s dress featured a cape style detail on one side, with a red stripe running down it.
The Coronation Street star then complemented the outfit with a red hat and matching strappy sandals – grinning widely as she posed for photographers alongside boyfriend Robbie Talbot.
Robbie perfectly co-ordinated with his other half with a powder pink tie, and looked smart in his grey trouser suit.
Helen certainly wasn’t the only lady in red at the world-famous event, as the colour was a popular choice among those looking to stand out from the crowd at the sporting occasion.
There were countless eye-catching outfits at Aintree, in bright colours and daring cuts.
The women didn’t appear to be concerned about having too much on show as they sported teeny minidresses, staggeringly high heels or low-cut numbers.
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Hats were, of course, pretty much a given – with some revellers opting for giant headpieces while others preferred a more understated fascinator.
Others decided to go hat-free, in a bid to let their outfit stand out more to achieve the Aintree dress code of “feeling your best”.
The champagne was flowing freely as guests enjoyed the racing at the final day of the three-day festival – over which around 150,000 people are expected to attend.
Facts about the Grand National
EVERY year the Grand National sees millions of racing fans tune in to soak up the action.
- The first Grand National took place in 1839, with a horse named Lottery winning the race.
- Obstacles like Becher’s Brook, The Chair, and the Canal Turn are renowned for their difficulty and have become iconic in the racing world.
- Red Rum is celebrated for winning the Grand National three times (1973, 1974, 1977) and finishing second twice (1975, 1976).
- In 1977, Charlotte Brew became the first woman to ride in the Grand National, breaking gender barriers in the sport.
- Rachael Blackmore made history in 2021 as the first female jockey to win the Grand National, riding Minella Times to victory.
- An estimated 500 to 600million viewers watch the race worldwide.
- The race covers about 4 miles and 2½ furlongs, with horses jumping 30 fences over two laps.
The Grand National kicks off at 4pm on Saturday afternoon and is arguably the biggest horse race in the world.
It spans approximately 4 miles and 2½ furlongs, featuring 30 challenging fences over two laps.
The event, which traditionally features 40 horses, has been running since 1839 and around a third of the UK is expected to put at least one bet on this year’s race.
Notably, the 2024 champion, I Am Maximus, trained by Willie Mullins, is set to defend his title at this year’s event.
There is a substantial prize fund of £1million up for grabs, with £500,000 awarded to the winner.