There was further welcome news for racing fans as it was confirmed that all 40 of the horses and riders to start the race returned home unscathed -- although only 17 of those completed the course . Ryan Mania defies the odds to win last year 's 's Grand National at Aintree . Ryan Mania rides the 66 -1 outsider to victory in jockey 's debut appearance . two of 40 entrants complete race , but no repeat of three-day 40 horse deaths . However , two horses died following races earlier in the three-day meeting .
Ryan Mania defies the odds to win last year 's 's Grand National at Aintree . Ryan Mania rides the 66 -1 outsider to victory in jockey 's debut appearance . two of 40 entrants complete race , but no repeat of three-day 40 horse deaths . However , two horses died following races earlier in the three-day meeting .