Austerlitz

One of the lesser lights of the Grand National, Austerlitz would win the race in 1877, and when he did, it was the only time he ever ran in it.

He was trained by Robert l’Anson Jr, who was actually a rider/trainer at the time of this race. However, he didn’t ride Austerlitz, as he chose to ride his other runner in the race, Shifnal (who would win the Grand National a year later).

Rider on the day was Fred Hobson, taking his one and only Grand National ride here, ending with a perfect record just like the horse.

Sixteen runners would go to post for the race on ground that was officially described as good. Returning with an SP of 15/1, there was some support behind Austerlitz, despite his lack of Grand National experience.

Punters who followed him were rewarded with the win. He would come away in the closing stages to win the race by four lengths.

Sadly, we would not see the horse again in the Grand National. He didn’t return to defend his title after that. A very small name, not really well known by general racing fans, but a Grand National winner nonetheless, which deserves credit alone.

Full Results