<P> The course over which the race is run features much larger fences than those found on conventional National Hunt tracks . Many of these, particularly Becher's Brook, The Chair and the Canal Turn, have become famous in their own right and, combined with the distance of the event, create what has been called "the ultimate test of horse and rider". </P> <P> The Grand National has been broadcast live on free - to - air terrestrial television in the United Kingdom since 1960 . From then until 2012 it was broadcast by the BBC . Between 2013 and 2016 it was shown by Channel 4; the UK broadcasting rights transferred to ITV from 2017 . An estimated 500 to 600 million people watch the Grand National in over 140 countries . It has also been broadcast on radio since 1927; BBC Radio held exclusive rights until 2013, however, Talksport also now holds radio commentary rights . </P> <P> The most recent running of the race, in 2018, was won by Tiger Roll, ridden by jockey Davy Russell for trainer Gordon Elliott . The next Grand National meeting will start on 4 April 2019 and finish on 6 April 2019 . As of 2017, the race and accompanying festival are sponsored by Randox Health . </P> <Table> External video <Tr> <Td_colspan="2"> A television item on the history of the Grand National, broadcast in 1969 (British Pathé) </Td> </Tr> </Table>

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