Olympic gold medallist Sam Quek will join ITV Racing's team for the first time at the Grand National meeting, enhancing the broadcaster’s coverage of the iconic event.
Known for her outstanding achievements in field hockey, Quek won gold with Great Britain at the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Olympics. Her versatile career has also seen her shine on platforms like I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here!, Strictly Come Dancing, and as a captain on A Question of Sport. Now, she brings her star power and hometown pride to Aintree, Liverpool.
"Being from Liverpool, I've grown up with the Grand National. Each year my entire family would gather at the house and we'd sit around the television to cheer our horses home. I attended for the first time in 2017 and it's something I'll never forget. I can't wait to be part of the ITV Racing team this year, interacting with the incredible people around the course and the millions more watching at home," Quek said excitedly.
The Grand National meeting this year is scheduled from April 3 to April 5, 2025, with a total of 17 races broadcast live. Quek will work with fellow presenter Oli Bell in the social stable, which promises an engaging viewer experience. Each day’s racing coverage will air on ITV1, starting at 1:30 PM on April 3 and 4, and at 12:45 PM on Grand National day, April 5, for the big race at 4 PM.
Ed Chamberlin, the lead presenter, emphasizes the scale of the event: "The Randox Grand National is the most watched race we show all year, not just in Britain but all around the world. It's a huge production effort and we've over 50 cameras around the course, so viewers at home won't miss a thing." This extensive setup ensures a comprehensive presentation of the races, catering to both seasoned racing fans and newcomers alike.
Fans can look forward to an action-packed schedule as the ITV Racing's Grand National meeting kicks off:
- Thursday, April 3: EBC Group Manifesto Novices' Chase (Grade 1), Boodles Anniversary 4-Y-O Juvenile Hurdle (Grade 1), Aintree Bowl (Grade 1), and more.
- Friday, April 4: Huyton Asphalt Franny Blennerhassett Memorial Mildmay Novices' Chase (Grade 1), William Hill Handicap Hurdle, TrustATrader Top Novices' Hurdle (Grade 1), and more.
- Saturday, April 5: William Hill Top Price Guarantee Handicap Hurdle, Turners Mersey Novices' Hurdle (Grade 1), Liverpool Hurdle (Grade 1), and Randox Grand National Handicap Chase.
The Opening Show will also be live each day on ITV4 and on ITV1 on National day from 9:30 AM, featuring guests including racing legends Sir AP McCoy and Ruby Walsh.
With Quek’s lively personality and love for the sport, viewers are sure to experience the Grand National in a fresh and engaging way this year. ITV Racing aims to not only celebrate the thrilling moments on the course but also connect with the millions watching from home, enhancing the excitement surrounding the prestigious race.
The Grand National, renowned for its rich history and challenging course, is a staple of the British racing calendar. This year's event is set to attract a diverse audience, drawn in part by the star-studded lineup of celebrity presenters and athletes like Quek. The integration of entertainment and sport promises a memorable experience for all.
Fans can expect gripping races, emotional victories, and the cherished tradition that comes with one of horse racing’s most famed events. ITV Racing is dedicated to ensuring that the audience feels as though they are a part of every thrilling moment.
Mark your calendars and prepare for an unforgettable Grand National meeting as ITV Racing gears up for three days of live racing action, all highlighted by Sam Quek’s debut in the broadcasting team.
