Five-year-old Oliver Christie, who has undergone four open-heart surgeries for congenital heart disease, has been named the honorary 35th runner in the 2026 Randox Grand National. The announcement by The Jockey Club highlights the work of Alder Hey Children’s Hospital, where Oliver receives care. His mother, Amelia Christie, who works at Aintree racecourse, described the honor as the ultimate recognition for their family.
Oliver Christie, a five-year-old boy born with hypoplastic left heart syndrome, faces his fifth open-heart surgery next month. Despite his life-limiting condition, which also includes cerebral palsy from a stroke at birth, global developmental delay, and tube-feeding via a blended diet, Oliver maintains an active life. He has spent significant time at Alder Hey Children’s Hospital, including Christmases, his first and second birthdays, and three months prior to his first birthday.
The Jockey Club, owners of Aintree racecourse, has named an honorary 35th runner each year since 2017 to spotlight the hospital’s efforts. Oliver’s mother, Amelia Christie, who works at Aintree, shared: “Oliver has a life-limiting heart condition and without the medical interventions from Alder Hey, Oliver would not be with us today. He has had four open-heart surgeries including ECMO and is due his next surgery next month.”
She praised the hospital staff for making visits feel welcoming through play specialists, music therapy, and caring doctors and nurses. The family supports Alder Hey’s Christmas present appeal annually, ensuring other children receive gifts.
Oliver’s passion for horses shines through his regular riding with the local Riding for the Disabled Association since February 2023. Even with oxygen support, riding has improved his core strength, allowing him to trot. Amelia noted: “He can now trot and thinks he is a cowboy, so of course he is very much looking forward to Randox Grand National day!”
Jockey Patrick Mullins, winner of last year’s race on Nick Rockett, commended the Aintree-Alder Hey partnership: “I think Aintree’s relationship with Alder Hey is one of the most important aspects of the race... Oliver was the star of the show at the weights lunch last week.”
Dickon White, The Jockey Club’s northwest regional director, expressed pride in the 25th anniversary of their collaboration with the hospital: “We’re especially pleased to be able to mark our 25th anniversary of working with Alder Hey by recognising a member of our own team here at Aintree.”
