1985 Grand National horse, West Tip had been fortunate to survive being hit by a lorry in 1982, which left a huge scar in his hind quarters. Having recovered, he went on to show impressive form by winning four races in the buildup to the National, including The Ritz Club National Hunt Handicap at Cheltenham a few weeks before Aintree. His partner was Richard Dunwoody, the youngest rider in the contest and among thirteen riders making their National debut. Such was the interest in the pair in the days leading to the race that he was asked to appear on the Wogan show
1986 Grand National with the prospect of having to interview himself if the 200/1 outsider were to win, until they departed the contest at the tenth fence. Jockey Paul Nicholls later commented that "He cleared Becher's like a dream then fell at a little one. We [He and Des Lynam] still have a laugh about it" In addition to its Television coverage, The BBC also broadcast the race live on Radio Two as part of its regular Saturday Sports Programme, having broadcast every National since 1927 with Peter Bromley calling home the winner. In the post race interview with Lynam, Richard Dunwoody explained