The Grand National, one of the most iconic horse races in the world, has long been a stage for memorable moments and remarkable achievements. Among the many stories is the powerful father-son duo from Solihull – Nigel and Sam Twiston-Davies. Their contributions to the sport, particularly the Grand National, highlight their status as National Hunt racing royalty.
Nigel Twiston-Davies: The Trainer
Nigel Twiston-Davies, born in 1957, is one of the most successful National Hunt trainers in the UK. Based at his yard in the picturesque village of Naunton, near Solihull, Nigel has built an illustrious career filled with major wins, including two victories in the Grand National. His triumphs in the race came with Earth Summit in 1998 and Bindaree in 2002.
Earth Summit’s win was particularly notable, as the horse became the only racehorse to win the “National Triple Crown” — the Grand National, Welsh National, and Scottish National. Four years later, Twiston-Davies would enjoy his second taste of Grand National glory when Bindaree surged home late to claim the 2002 edition of the race, giving the trainer his second win in the Aintree showpiece.
Nigel’s ability to prepare horses for such a gruelling test of stamina and skill has made him one of the sport’s most respected trainers. The Grand National, with its 30 fences and 4 miles 2½ furlongs, demands both horse and trainer to be at their best, and Nigel has consistently demonstrated his expertise in this marathon race.
Sam Twiston-Davies: The Jockey
Following in his father’s footsteps, Sam Twiston-Davies has also made a name for himself in the world of National Hunt racing. Born in 1992, Sam grew up surrounded by the sport, and it wasn’t long before he began to carve out his own career as a top-class jockey. Sam is widely regarded as one of the best jump jockeys of his generation, riding for top trainers like his father and Paul Nicholls.
Sam has enjoyed a glittering career, riding winners at the Cheltenham Festival and in major races across the UK. Despite his many achievements, the Grand National continues to be a race that he is determined to win. He has had numerous rides in the race, with Go Ballistic, Hello Bud, and Blaklion among his mounts over the years.
Though the ultimate victory at Aintree has eluded him so far, Sam has come close on several occasions. One of his most memorable rides came in 2017 aboard Blaklion, trained by his father Nigel. The pair were prominent throughout the race but faded late on to finish fourth. Sam’s quest for Grand National glory continues, and with his talent and determination, many believe it is only a matter of time before he adds a Grand National victory to his already impressive CV.
The Solihull Connection
What makes the Twiston-Davies story even more compelling is their strong ties to Solihull, a town better known for its quiet suburban charm than its racing heritage. Yet, this father-son team has placed Solihull firmly on the National Hunt racing map with their continued success on the national stage.
For both Nigel and Sam, the Grand National represents the pinnacle of the sport, a race that they hold close to their hearts. Nigel has already cemented his legacy with two wins as a trainer, while Sam continues to chase the elusive jockey’s title. Together, their presence in the sport offers a fascinating family dynamic, with one of the sport’s most famous trainers working alongside one of its top jockeys.
