SUSSEX jockey Leighton Aspell rode Pineau De Re to Crabbie's Grand National glory at Aintree for trainer Dr Richard Newland today.
The 11-year-old was a 25-1 shot after finishing third in the Pertemps Final over hurdles at the Cheltenham Festival but Pulborough-based Aspell brought him home to secure a momentous five-length victory.
He jumped the final fence in a clear lead and his pursuers never looked like bridging the gap as he galloped all the way to the line.
Balthazar King ran a fine race to finish second, ahead of champion jockey Tony McCoy aboard Double Seven. Alvarado stayed on from a long way back to finish fourth.
Aspell, who at one stage had retired from riding, said: "It's a wonderful day. This is what we do it for.
''I've been watching the National since I was a very young boy.
''As much as you enjoy sharing everyone's success, you crave a bit too.
''To get a chance to ride in the National is a great thing, and to get on one with a chance is even better.''
Aspell went on: ''I was very conscious that I didn't want to be in front too soon over four and a half miles.
''He's a small horse, so he finds jumping hard enough.
''When I got a bit of daylight I knew I'd be fine because that was my only worry, a lack of daylight.
''Once he was in daylight he really enjoyed that part of the race.''
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