Southports Redrum

Aintree Festival 2022 opens tomorrow, Thursday 7th April. With the “greatest steeple chase on earth” The Grand National taking place on Saturday 9th April at 5:15pm.

Of course, in our hearts, there can be no greater horse than Birkdales’ very own Redrum. There are tributes to the most spectactular race horse ever, all around our town. The bronze statue in Wayfarers Arcade, a wooden art structure outside The Bold Hotel and of course the mural on The Promenade.

In 1973 Redrum won his first Grand National. Then the years that followed:

1974 First

1975 Second

1976 Second

1977 First

No horse has ever won the Grand National 3 times. And we love the mural of him in Southport, which can be seen from the Promenade.

Redrum initially suffered from problems with his feet. Problems which would reoccur throughout his life. However, it is said that training Redrum on Southport beach and therefore running him through the salt water of the sea would help him to heal.

After all his success, he eventually had to hang up his racing reins, Redrum remained an honoured guest at Aintree. Redrum was invited back every year to lead the parade.

Redrum died in 1990 after suffering a stroke. He is, quite rightly, buried at Aintree, with his head facing towards the winners post.