Minella Times Wins Grand National 2021 As Rachael Blackmore Becomes First Female Winner

Minella Times has won the Grand National 2021, with Rachael Blackmore making history as the first female jockey to win the event.

Speaking after her victory, Blackmore said she was 'so lucky' to have been riding Minella Times, saying: "He was just incredible, he jumped beautifully."

When asked how it felt to be the first female jockey to win the Grand National, she said: "I don't feel male or female right now - I don't even feel human! This is just unbelievable!"

Last year, the event was cancelled for the first time since World War II due to the coronavirus pandemic, with organisers opting for a virtual version in its place using CGI technology.

Based on algorithms of the 40 horses that were supposed to be competing, it was won by Potters Corner, with Walk In The Mill coming in second place, Any Second Now in third and Tiger Roll fourth.

While it's been able to make its triumphant comeback for this year, it takes place without any spectators - usually welcoming 70,000 fans to Aintree Racecourse.

According to the BBC, police have also stepped up patrols, with residents living near the Merseyside track warned not to gather in groups larger than six in their gardens during the races.

Television coverage of the final day has returned to ITV's main channel, having been moved over to ITV4 yesterday after the news of death of the Duke of Edinburgh.

Confirming the event would still go ahead today following Prince Philip's passing, the Jockey Club - owner of Aintree - said in a statement: "Jockey Club Racecourses has held discussions with the British Horseracing Authority regarding the staging of Randox Grand National day tomorrow at Aintree racecourse. Following consultation with government, we can confirm it will go ahead on Saturday.

"Following the sad news of the death of The Duke of Edinburgh a two-minute silence will be held on course ahead of the 173rd Grand National, jockeys will be invited to wear black armbands and flags will be flown at half-mast at the racecourse."

A two-minute silence was held before racing today and flags on the track have been flown at half mast, while jockeys have been wearing black armbands as a mark of respect.