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died later that year. 40 runners were declared on the Tuesday before the race but five, including Tartan Tyrant, were withdrawn before raceday.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.
1995 Grand National Chase winner Into The Red, 1994 Irish Grand National runner-up Nouaffe and third-placed Ebony Jane, and double Whitbread Gold Cup winner Topsham Bay at 20/1. Eventual winner Royal Athlete was among those worthy of respect but considered out of form with Chatam, Riverside Boy, Romany King and Superior Finish, and was sent off at 40/1. Jockey Jason Titley was among 12 riders making their race debut, including two future winners, Tony McCoy (on Chatam) and Mick Fitzgerald (on Tinryland). At the other extreme, John White who crossed the line first in the void race of 1993, was lured out of