Scottish Grand National 2025 – Captain Cody Wins at Ayr

The Coral Scottish Grand National returned to Ayr Racecourse on Saturday, April 12, 2025, concluding the season’s sequence of four major Grand National events across the United Kingdom and Ireland. The premier handicap chase attracted thousands of spectators to the Scottish coast, with all ticketed enclosures selling out well in advance of race day.

Captain Cody claimed overall victory at odds of 9/1, giving trainer Willie Mullins his second consecutive win in the event following Macdermott’s success in 2024. The result marked a dominant performance from the Mullins operation, which had entered six runners in this year’s field.

This article provides a complete overview of the 2025 race, including results, prize money, ticket arrangements, and the historical context that makes the Scottish National one of the standout events in the National Hunt calendar.

When and Where is the Scottish Grand National 2025?

• The 2025 running took place on Saturday, April 12, with the main race scheduled for 3:35 PM.
• Gates opened at 11:00 AM, with the first race at 1:10 PM and the final race around 4:50 PM.
• The course measured 3 miles, 7 furlongs, and 176 yards (approximately 4 miles) over 25 fences, with two omitted during the race.
• Ground conditions were reported as good to soft on race day.
• All ticketed enclosures sold out well in advance, with no concessions, student, or under-18 tickets available.
• Ayr Racecourse is located on the Scottish west coast, accessible via Scotrail shuttle services from Prestwick station.
• Smart casual dress was recommended for attendees throughout the venue.

Scottish Grand National 2025 Runners and Odds

Pre-Race Contenders and declarations

Willie Mullins emerged as the dominant force heading into the 2025 race, entering six horses into the contest. Among those declarations were Captain Cody, Chosen Witness, and several other potential starters from the top Irish yard. British-based trainers also featured prominently, with Joe Tizzard entering Rock My Way as a notable contender.

Pre-race analysis highlighted several horses as potential threats, including Surrey Quest, Brandt, and Magna Sam. These selections reflected a combination of recent form, pedigree, and ground preferences that shaped betting markets in the days leading up to the race.

Betting Odds and Market Movement

Betting odds were listed by Betfred as of April 12, 2025, and fluctuated throughout the build-up to the race. Captain Cody started at 9/1 odds at the off, representing solid value for those who had identified the winner in advance.

Promotional offers such as “Bet £10 Get £30 Free Bet” were available from various bookmakers during the lead-up to the race, reflecting the competitive nature of the betting market for this event.

How to Buy Tickets and Watch Scottish Grand National 2025

Ticketing Arrangements

All 2025 tickets for the Scottish Grand National sold out well before race day. The Grandstand Enclosure, group packages for 20 or more attendees, and hospitality packages were all snapped up during the advance booking period. Early bird discounts had concluded on May 30 prior to the race.

No concessions were available on the day, and student or under-18 tickets were not offered. Those planning to attend future editions are advised to monitor ticket release dates and book early to avoid disappointment.

Getting to Ayr Racecourse

Ayr Racecourse is situated on the western coast of Scotland and is well served by public transport. Scotrail operates shuttle services from Prestwick station on race days, providing a convenient option for visitors traveling from Glasgow and surrounding areas.

The venue recommends smart casual dress throughout its enclosures, with specific dress codes applying to premium hospitality areas.

Broadcast and Streaming Options

The Scottish Grand National forms part of the UK National Hunt calendar that receives regular broadcast coverage. ITV Racing typically screens major handicap chases from venues including Ayr, and viewers are encouraged to check local listings for race replays and highlights.

For 2026 planning, similar broadcast arrangements are expected, with ITV covering the flagship events from the four Grand National venues throughout the season.

History and Past Winners of the Scottish Grand National

Origins and Course Evolution

The Scottish Grand National traces its origins to 1858, when it was first inaugurated under the title West of Scotland Grand National near Houston. The event relocated to Bogside from 1867 to 1965 before settling at its current home, Ayr Racecourse, where it has been staged for decades.

The course originally featured 32 jumps, predominantly stone walls that reflected the rustic character of early steeplechase racing in Scotland. Over time, modifications have reduced this to the current configuration of 25 fences, with two omitted during each running.

Place in the Grand National Series

The Scottish National holds a unique position in the racing calendar as the final major Grand National event of the season, following the Welsh Grand National, Irish Grand National, and Aintree Grand National. This timing makes it a key target for trainers and owners concluding their campaigns.

Recent Winners

Notable Achievements

The legendary Red Rum achieved a unique distinction in 1974 by winning both the Ayr Scottish Grand National and the Aintree Grand National in the same season. This feat remains unmatched and cemented the horse’s place in National Hunt history.

Willie Mullins’ recent dominance with back-to-back victories underscores the continued strength of the Irish training operation in the UK handicap chase circuit.

2025 Prize Money Breakdown

The prize pool for the 2025 Scottish Grand National reflected the event’s status as a premier handicap chase. The total distribution across the top eight finishers demonstrated the significant financial rewards on offer at this level of National Hunt racing.

What Information Remains Confirmed and What Is Uncertain

Context: The Scottish Grand National in National Hunt Racing

The Scottish Grand National occupies a distinctive position in the UK horse racing calendar as the concluding event of the four major Grand National meetings held annually. The race provides a benchmark for staying handicap chasers, testing both endurance and jumping ability over a distance that rewards conditioned and experienced horses.

Its status as a Class 1 premier handicap places it among the most prestigious jump races outside of the Cheltenham Festival and Aintree’s flagship meeting. The event draws competitors from both Irish and British yards, creating an international field that reflects the cross-border nature of modern National Hunt racing.

The venue’s location on the Scottish west coast provides a scenic backdrop and a committed local audience that has supported the race throughout its history at Ayr Racecourse.

Looking Ahead to 2026

Based on established patterns, the 2026 Scottish Grand National is expected to return to Ayr Racecourse in late April. Those wishing to attend are advised to monitor ticket release announcements and book early, as the 2025 event demonstrated strong demand that exceeded available capacity.

Trainer Willie Mullins’ consecutive victories may influence entries and betting markets in the coming year, with observers watching whether the Irish operation maintains its presence in the field.

The Scottish Grand National serves as the final chapter in the Grand National season, bringing together the best staying chasers from across Ireland and Britain for a memorable afternoon at Ayr.

— Racecourse official communications, 2025

Summary

Captain Cody’s victory at 9/1 gave Willie Mullins a second consecutive Scottish Grand National win in 2025, cementing his position as the leading trainer in the event. The race drew a capacity crowd to Ayr Racecourse on April 12, with all tickets selling out in advance. The 4-mile course over 25 fences challenged the 23 declared runners, with only 8 completing the journey. First-place prize money totaled £112,540, and the event maintained its reputation as the season’s final major Grand National meeting. For those planning to attend future editions, early ticket booking is strongly recommended given consistent demand. Detailed results and form guides are available from Racing Post.

The Scottish Grand National remains a cornerstone of the National Hunt calendar, combining historic traditions with modern competitive racing. Whether attending in person or following from home, the event offers something for every racing enthusiast.