Ian Mallon: How an Irish diagnostics firm became racing’s most powerful sponsor

Randox is an Irish clinical testing company, one whose own fortunes have mushroomed throughout the life-cycle of its headline sponsorship of this famous and prestigious festival.

HOT STUFF: Derek Fox cools down Corach Rambler after winning the Randox Grand National last year. Pic: Alan Crowhurst, Getty Images

ON Saturday at 4pm, the eyes of the world will focus on the Randox Grand National from Aintree, the world’s most famous horse race and the weekend’s biggest sporting event globally.

As that famous hush descends over the 70,000 race fans around the Liverpool track just before the off, they and the 600m watching around the world will focus on a unique handicap chase, run over 4 miles, 2 furlongs and 74 yards with 30 jumps between start to finish, lasting around nine minutes.