Story Of The Grand National’s Biggest Upset by David Owen is published in hardback by Bloomsbury, priced £18.99 (ebook £13.67)
A LOVINGLY-crafted tribute to the victorious 1967 Grand National winner, David Owen’s book is about much more than the world-famous steeplechase.
The background, development and undistinguished race record of Foinavon are noted, as are some of the horse’s many quirks – plus the first meeting with a nanny goat called Susie.
The uncertainty that put the Grand National in jeopardy pre-Red Rum is noted, with Owen’s narrative interspersing historical detail and first-hand recollections, while there are consistent reminders of the murkier side of the racing industry.
Of course, the real drama lies in how the 100-1 shot defied the odds, strolling through to land National Hunt racing’s greatest prize after a melee eight fences out, becoming part of Aintree folklore in the process – the ultimate “tortoise and the hare” story.
It is how the writer describes the occasion – and Foinavon’s subsequent rise to notoriety – that readers will relish.
7/10
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