Sefton’s Brave Oliver Named Grand National’s 35th Runner in Inspiring Local Honour

A remarkable young boy from Formby is set to take centre stage at one of the world’s most famous horse races this weekend, as five year old Oliver Christie has been named the honorary 35th runner in the 2026 Randox Grand National at Aintree Racecourse.

Oliver, who many in the local community will already know, is a true heart warrior. He lives with Congenital Heart Disease, including the rare condition Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome, which means the left side of his heart is severely underdeveloped. Despite facing extraordinary challenges, including multiple open heart surgeries, Oliver recently underwent another major operation just a few weeks ago and continues to show incredible strength and resilience.

The honorary 35th runner initiative was introduced when Randox became sponsor of the Grand National in 2017. Each year, a child connected to Alder Hey Children’s Hospital is given a symbolic place in the racecard alongside the competing horses, highlighting the life changing work carried out at the hospital.

This year’s announcement is especially meaningful. Oliver’s mum Amelia Christie works at Aintree, making this a deeply personal moment for the family and the racecourse.

Oliver with his mum Amelia Christie

Speaking about the honour, Amelia said the family are delighted and described the moment as incredibly special. She praised the ongoing care Oliver receives at Alder Hey, explaining that without their expertise and dedication, Oliver would not be here today.

Oliver’s journey has been incredibly challenging. Alongside his heart condition, he also lives with cerebral palsy following a stroke at birth, experiences global development delay and is fed through a tube. Yet through it all, his strength and personality shine through.

The family have shown their gratitude by giving back wherever they can. For the past four years they have supported the Alder Hey Christmas Present Appeal, helping ensure children spending Christmas in hospital receive gifts, just as Oliver did during his own stays.

Those stays have been significant. Oliver has spent Christmas, as well as his first and second birthdays, in hospital. In one touching moment, nurses dressed as Teletubbies to celebrate his first birthday and lift his spirits after months of treatment.

Despite everything he faces, Oliver lives life to the full. He has recently started mainstream school, loves making friends and has developed a passion for horses. Through the Riding for the Disabled Association, he regularly rides at local stables, even with oxygen support, helping to build his strength and confidence. He can now trot on his pony and proudly thinks of himself as a cowboy.

Oliver on stage at St George’s Hall with his mother Amelia (with microphone), host Ed Chamberlin, of ITV Racing, and Amanda Jones, Philanthropy Manager at Alder Hey Children’s Hospital - Photo Credit: Grossick Photography/The Jockey Club

Oliver was officially announced as the 35th runner at a special event held at St George’s Hall, where he smiled and waved to hundreds of guests alongside his mum.

Race organisers have described their partnership with Alder Hey as one of the most important parts of the Grand National, reflecting the strong connection between the event and the local community.

As the Grand National returns to Aintree this Saturday, Sefton has its very own hero to cheer on.

While the horses race around the famous course, many eyes will also be on one very special runner, a brave little boy whose courage and spirit have already won hearts across the community.

What does “35th runner” mean?

Oliver is not taking part in the race itself. The Grand National has a maximum of 34 horses, so the “35th runner” is an honorary title. His name appears in the official racecard alongside the horses as a special recognition of his bravery, while also highlighting the incredible work of Alder Hey Children’s Hospital.

Here is the Just Giving page for little Oliver