9-year-old named as honorary 35th entrant in 2025 Grand National
It's part of a tradition since 2017 that adds a youngster as an extra runner
A nine-year-old boy with a rare neurological condition has been named as the honorary 35th entrant in this year's Grand National in April.
Joshua Duckworth lives in Aintree, is a massive Liverpool fan, and hails from a family that's passionate about racing.
It's part of a tradition since 2017 that adds a youngster as an extra runner.
The Jockey Club say Joshua loves meeting racing personalities - and over the past year he has met the Grand National-winning jockeys Sir AP McCoy, Ruby Walsh and Rachael Blackmore.
He was diagnosed with 4H Leukodystrophy (POL3B-related hypomyelinating leukodystrophy) back in November 2023.
This extremely rare condition is a disease of white brain matter which impacts communication and movement, as well as hearing and sight.
There are only around 200 confirmed cases worldwide and just 4-5 confirmed cases in the UK - and he's being looked after by Alder Hey’s Neurology team.
'A huge honour'
His dad Christopher said: “It can be incredibly frustrating for Joshua when he is unable to do things that other children his age do. The condition affects everything that he does day-to-day. It took six years to get his diagnosis due to the condition being so rare, but it is positive to be taking a big step forward.”
“It’s a huge honour for Josh to be this year’s 35th runner in a race like the Randox Grand National. The opportunities Aintree have given to Josh and us a family have been amazing and we’re so excited for the next few months in the build up to the big day.”
Dickon White, Regional Director North West and Aintree at The Jockey Club, said: “We are delighted to welcome Joshua as our 35th runner for the 2025 Randox Grand National. It makes it very special that he hails from Aintree and is such a massive racing fan.
“The honorary runner position has played a huge role in highlighting the brave battles of some truly extraordinary youngsters and the amazing work of Alder Hey Children’s Hospital and charity, which Aintree Racecourse has now been partnered with for 23 years.”
Mandy Jones, Philanthropy Manager, at Alder Hey Children's Charity said: "We’re incredibly grateful to The Jockey Club for their unwavering support over more than two decades. Their generosity has made a real difference to the lives of so many children and families at Alder Hey, and it’s heartwarming to see their commitment continue year after year.
"This partnership means so much to us, and we’re thrilled to be celebrating another Grand National with their support. Thank you for everything you do to help us make a difference!"