Hit or miss: Assessing some of the current jockey's records in the Grand National

The Grand National, one of the biggest contests in the world of horse racing, has seen its fair share of triumphs and heartbreaks, with every jockey aspiring to win the prestigious steeplechase at least once in their career before hanging up the whip.

That is easier said than done though, as the Grand National is best known for its unpredictability due to its large field, gruelling four-mile and two-and-a-half-furling trip, and infamous obstacles of which there are 30.

As the 2024 edition looms closer, taking place at Aintree on April 13, let’s take a closer look at the track records of some of the current jockeys on the National Hunt circuit — assessing, for better or for worse, how they’ve fared in the Grand National.

Hit: Derek Fox

Derek Fox stands on the cusp of history, aiming to clinch his third Grand National title aboard defending champion Corach Rambler — who is being well-backed by those who have placed a bet on Grand National 2024.

Despite having contested the race only four times, Fox boasts an impressive strike rate — completing the testing course and distance on three occasions and winning twice.

With his eyes set on another victory, Fox's adeptness in navigating Aintree's formidable obstacles could prove decisive in his quest for glory aboard the Lucinda Russell-trained Corach Rambler.

Miss: Paul Townend

While Paul Townend's prowess as a jumps jockey is undisputed, his track record in the Grand National leaves much to be desired.

Despite being a four-time Gold Cup winner and the stable jockey for Willie Mullins, Townend has struggled in the Grand National — with just one placing and three completions in 12 attempts.

For this esteemed rider, conquering Aintree's challenges remains an elusive feat.

Hit: Rachael Blackmore

Rachael Blackmore's meteoric rise in the racing world reached new heights when she clinched victory in the 2021 Grand National aboard Minella Times, becoming the first female jockey to achieve this historic feat.

With three completions in five attempts, including a commendable 17th-place finish aboard Ain’t That A Shame last year, Blackmore's skill and determination make her a formidable contender for further success on the Aintree turf.

Miss: Sam Twiston-Davies

Despite his pedigree and familial ties to the sport, Sam Twiston-Davies has yet to make a significant impact in the Grand National.

With no top-five finishes in 13 attempts and a completion rate of less than 50%, Twiston-Davies faces an uphill battle in his pursuit of Grand National glory.

Hit: Ryan Mania

Ryan Mania's fairy-tale victory aboard Auroras Encore in 2013, piloting the outsider home at 66/1 in the Aintree horse racing odds, remains etched in Grand National folklore.

Despite missing this year's race due to a whip ban, Mania's track record of two completions in five rides underscores his proficiency in tackling Aintree's challenges.

While absent from the race card, Mania's past triumph serves as a testament to his skill and resilience in the face of adversity.

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In addition to these jockeys, others such as Robbie Power — one win, one place, and seven completions in 14 attempts — and Daryl Jacob — one win, one place, and six completions in 13 rides — have demonstrated their prowess in the Grand National arena with commendable records.

Conversely, riders like Adam Wedge — who has never completed the race in six attempts — and Mark Walsh — who has just one place and three completions in 11 rides — continue to grapple with the unforgiving nature of Aintree's course, highlighting the unpredictability of this prestigious event.