1995 Grand National trainer Jenny Pitman, which at that time was the largest number of horses prepared for one Grand National by a single trainer. For the first time since 1979, the triple National winner Red Rum did not lead the parade of competitors due to old age and failing health. The record breaking winner died later that year. 40 runners were declared on the Tuesday before the race but five, including Tartan Tyrant, were withdrawn before raceday. That left 35 to face the starter, which for the second consecutive year was Simon Morant who again despatched the field at the first attempt.
1989 Grand National home a close up fourth but as they came to the second last flight it became clear that he was unlikely to win, dropping out of contention by the final flight before making the best of their way home in eighth place. Bonanza Boy returned to Chepstow eight months later to retain his Welsh National crown before embarking on another attempt at Aintree. The Thinker was bidding to be only the third Cheltenham Gold Cup winner in history to complete the Grand National double, having been crowned the Champion Chaser in 1987. The former Gold Cup winner came to Aintree