Ruby Walsh holds the best record of current jockeys, having won the Grand National twice – on Papillion in 2000 and Hedgehunter five years later.

Amateur riders are able to participate in plenty of jump races but must have won at least 15 chases or hurdle races to guarantee a place in the John Smith’s Grand National and the other races over the Grand National fences except the Fox Hunters’ in which an amateur category B licence is sufficient.

Huge congratulations go to Tony McCoy, winning jockey in the John Smith's Grand National 2010.

McCoy, the 14-time champion jump jockey and breaker of all records, shed tears as he won the £925,00 John Smith’s Grand National at his 15th attempt.

“I am being a big wuss but it is everything to win the John Smith’s Grand National. I have won lots of big races and I am supposed to be a good jockey but to not win the Grand National is bit of a negative on the CV.

Nina Carberry was the winner of the Cheltenham Festival’s 2009 Award for ‘The Outstanding Contribution made by a Lady to Jump Racing’.

Mick Kinane, aged 50, announced his retirement on Tuesday 8 December 2009. Horse Racing Ireland pays tribute to the top-class jockey:

Born on September 8, 1968, Malesh Narredu grew up in poor surroundings and attended the St Patrick’s school in Pune, situated across the road from the Royal Western India Turf Club (RWITC) racecourse.