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When is the Grand National on?

Are you feeling lucky enough to have a flutter on this year's Grand National?

To mark the occasion we've pulled together a list of facts about Kent's influence in the world-famous race.

We also have some handy details if you're interested in watching it for yourself.

Kent used to have a Grand National. Picture: Matt Bristow
Kent used to have a Grand National. Picture: Matt Bristow

1) When is the Grand National?

The race is part of the Aintree Festival which kicked off yesterday. The big race will take place tomorrow at 5.15pm and is live on ITV, with coverage getting underway at 2pm.

2) Who won last year and who should I back this time?

Last year's winning horse was called One For Arthur. It had odds of 14/1 to win and the jockey was Derek Fox. At the time of writing, the joint-favourites with William Hill were Tiger Roll, Blaklion and Anibale Fly.

Did you know these facts about the Grand National? Picture: Paul Amos
Did you know these facts about the Grand National? Picture: Paul Amos

3) So, what about Kent?

In previous years horses from the county have qualified and competed in the Grand National. One of those was Maidstone Mixture which was owned by property tycoon Fergus Wilson.

4) Kent used to have a Grand National?

That's right, we used to hold our own Grand National right here in the Garden of England. It was called the Shepherd Neame Kent Grand National and was forced to move its home from Detling to Charing around 2011.

There are many obstacles for the animals to overcome. Picture: Paul Amos
There are many obstacles for the animals to overcome. Picture: Paul Amos

5) How long is the Grand National?

The race is made up of 40 horses going around a track, which is more than two miles long, twice. There are several hurdles for the animals to overcome before they cross the finishing line.

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