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The Coral Welsh Grand National, often celebrated as the biggest raceday in Wales, is one of the most cherished fixtures in the National Hunt calendar. Taking place on 27 December 2025, this post-Christmas highlight brings excitement, tradition and top-tier racing to Chepstow Racecourse. Whether you're a long-time racing follower or simply looking for an exhilarating way to round off the festive season, this year’s edition promises to deliver the drama and atmosphere the event is famous for.
Held at Chepstow Racecourse since 1949, the Welsh Grand National has a long history woven into the fabric of British horse racing. Nestled in the picturesque landscape of Monmouthshire, the course offers a scenic backdrop that only enhances the sense of occasion. Its close proximity to the Welsh–English border ensures a lively cross-border crowd, making the event feel both nationally significant and warmly local.
Families, friends and racing enthusiasts gather each year to enjoy a day that blends sporting excellence with festive celebration. With Christmas still fresh in the air, the atmosphere is one of excitement, energy and shared tradition.
This year’s line-up is already generating excitement, with several prominent names standing out in the early odds. As always, many horse racing enthusiasts will not only be watching the action unfold but also placing wagers on their favoured contenders, adding an extra layer of anticipation to raceday. Some bettors who attend the race in person may place bets at physical bookmakers; however, most will be watching remotely and placing bets via online bookmakers. Punters who wager online often seek out non UK based betting sites because these platforms, which are licensed in countries like Curacao or Malta, are known to offer access to a variety of markets along with competitive odds. Leading the field is Val Dancer at 7/1, a horse whose staying power and proven form make them a strong favourite among fans and bettors alike.
Monbeg Genius at 10/1 follows closely, offering a blend of experience and consistency that appeals to those looking for a reliable performer. Iwilldoit at 12/1, a past Welsh National hero, remains a popular choice thanks to his proven ability over long distances and familiarity with the demands of Chepstow. Further down the list but still very much in the mix are Where It All Began at 16/1 and Galia Des Liteaux at 18/1, both of whom have shown promise in staying chases and could well take advantage if conditions swing in their favour on the day.
With such a competitive field and plenty of interest from racing fans and punters, racegoers can expect a thrilling contest from start to finish.
At the centre of the day is the race itself, a demanding steeplechase run over 3 miles and 6½ furlongs, equal to around 5,875 metres. This formidable distance, combined with 23 challenging fences, ensures that the Welsh Grand National is no ordinary test. It is widely recognised as one of the toughest staying chases in the UK racing calendar.
Chepstow racecourse's undulating terrain provides an added layer of complexity, requiring both horse and jockey to maintain focus and stamina throughout. The combination of tricky ground, physical demands and tactical riding makes this race a true spectacle of endurance and determination.
One of the defining features of the Welsh Grand National is its winter timing. Late December racing brings unpredictable and often difficult weather conditions. Cold winds, rain and soft or heavy ground regularly influence the outcome, transforming the already demanding track into a real test of resilience.
These conditions frequently produce dramatic race narratives, with horses that thrive in testing grounds emerging as strong contenders. For spectators, the combination of winter weather and festive atmosphere creates a unique and memorable raceday experience.
The winner of the 2025 Coral Welsh Grand National will claim a prize purse of £80,000, a significant reward that attracts high-calibre trainers, jockeys and horses year after year. The substantial purse contributes to the race’s reputation as a must-win event for those seeking to leave a mark on the National Hunt season.
The list of past champions highlights the prestige of this historic race. Previous winners include now-retired Native River, a Cheltenham Gold Cup hero; Synchronised, known for his toughness; Silver Birch, who went on to win the Grand National at Aintree; and Dream Alliance, the Hollywood-worthy underdog whose story captured the hearts of race fans worldwide.
This rich heritage adds to the anticipation surrounding each new edition, as spectators wonder which horse will join the ranks of these iconic names.
Beyond the racing itself, the Coral Welsh Grand National is a significant social event that brings together communities, families and racing fans for a memorable day out. The post-Christmas timing makes it the perfect opportunity to continue seasonal celebrations, enjoy time with loved ones and experience the thrill of live sport.
The racecourse buzzes with festive cheer, from the winter atmosphere to the shared excitement of watching some of the best stayers in the country compete. Whether you're trackside, wrapped up warm with a hot drink, or enjoying the view from a hospitality suite, the sense of occasion is undeniable.
With a competitive field, a historic setting and the challenging winter conditions that make this race so distinctive, the 2025 Coral Welsh Grand National promises to be a highlight of the festive season. From its rich heritage to its thrilling race action, this year’s event is set to deliver everything fans love about one of Britain’s most iconic steeplechases.
Whether you're watching in person at Chepstow or following from home, you can expect a day filled with endurance, excitement and unforgettable racing moments.
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