Scottish Grand National 2025: Favourites, Betting Tips & Race Guide

Ayr Racecourse is once again the stage for Scotland’s biggest and most exciting horse racing event – the Scottish Grand National Handicap Chase.

Part of the National Hunt season, it’s a race that grabs the attention of fans and punters every year. With deep roots and plenty of drama, it’s not just a major sporting moment – it’s one of the best betting opportunities of the year.

Scottish Grand National - History

The Scottish Grand National goes way back to 1858, when it first ran as the West of Scotland Grand National. That early version was nothing like today’s race – held near Houston in Renfrewshire, the course included 32 stone-wall jumps. Yes, actual stone walls.

In 1867, under pressure from the Church, the race moved to Bogside, and in 1880 it got its current name. It stayed at Bogside until the track shut down in 1965 – since then, Ayr has been its home.

One of the race’s biggest legends is Red Rum, the only horse ever to win both the Aintree and Scottish Grand Nationals in the same year – 1974. A true icon.

What to Expect in 2025

These days, the Scottish Grand National headlines a full day of racing at Ayr, with eight races in total, including the Scottish Champion Hurdle. But let’s be honest – it’s all about the big one, the Coral Scottish Grand National.

Prize money’s come a long way – from £100 back in the 1800s to £150,000 today. But it’s not just about the cash. For many in Scotland, this race is a point of pride, and a proper sporting tradition.

Scottish Grand National 2025 Favourites

Trainer Willie Mullins is bringing a strong team to Ayr, with 11 runners entered. Early favourite is Chosen Witness (around 7/1). He’s only had three runs over fences, which is a slight worry, but he’s well-handicapped at 11st 1lb and could easily show his class.

Rock My Way (8/1) looks a solid each-way shot. He came second in the National Hunt Chase at Cheltenham and should relish the trip here carrying 10st 11lb.

Don’t overlook Whistle Stop Tour (11/1) from Lucinda Russell’s yard – plenty of money has come for him. There’s also some each-way interest in Hasthing (13/1) and The Kniphand (15/1), both coming into this in decent form.

Recent trends favour younger stayers who arrive off a good run, so keep that in mind when picking your bets.

Race Stats & Records

• First run: 1858

• Now at: Ayr (since 1966)

• Distance: 4 miles

• Fences: 27

• Purse: £150,000 (as of 2021)

• Age eligibility: 5 and up

• Most wins: Couvrefeu II, Southern Hero, Queen’s Taste – 3 wins each

• Top jockeys: Charlie Cunningham (4 wins), Mark Dwyer (3 wins)

• Top trainers: Neville Crump, Ken Oliver (5 wins each)

Betting on the Scottish Grand National

Horse racing offers loads of betting options – not just Win or Place. Here’s a quick guide if you're looking to mix things up:

• Exacta: Pick the first and second horses, in the correct order.

• Trifecta: Same idea, but first three.

• Superfecta: Guess the first four – high risk, massive potential return.

• Swinger: Pick two horses to finish in the top three – order doesn’t matter. Decent odds, less risk than an Exacta.

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