AINTREE, UK: One For Arthur gave Scotland only their second win in the Grand National yesterday under a brilliant first ride by Derek Fox in the world’s most famous steeplechase.
The winner, trained by Lucinda Russell, took it up at the last and came home clear of Cause of Causes to emulate Rubstic’s win in 1979.
For Fox it was a victory that a few weeks ago seemed unlikely to happen when he suffered a serious arm injury – he was only passed fit at the beginning of the week.
“This is a fairytale but for excellent medical care I wouldn’t have made it,” said Fox.
“This is unbelievable, he was so courageous. Some of us will never be a champion jockey but this is a day when the likes of me can strike against the big boys,” added the 24-year-old Irishman.
Russell, whose partner and riding great Peter Scudamore never won the race, was overcome with emotion.
“That was amazing, I’m tearful but it is amazing,” said Russell. “It’s total credit to Derek, he never panicked. I have just won the National. We always thought barring an accident he would be a National winner and it has come true.”
Proud
Russell said she was proud to join Jenny Pitman, Venetia Williams and Sue Smith as women to have trained a National winner. “I never thought I would be in their exalted company,” she said.
Scudamore, who will have to buy his grand-daughter a pony having promised her one if the horse won, said it was special to be connected to a National winner.