Irishman Denis Wynne had the distinction of riding the first-ever Irish winner of the Grand National.
In 1847, riding Matthew, Denis brought the nine-year-old home a length winner; priced as short as 4/1 just before the off, the gelding was returned the 10/1 joint-favourite with Culverthorpe, which finished 5th.
Back in Ireland where the famine was at its height, the money had poured onto Matthew, and Denny (as he was known to the racing public) became a national hero. (15 years later, his son, Joseph, was killed riding in the race.)
Denis Wynne's Grand National rides: (12)
Matthew (1848) brought down
The Knight of Gwynne (1850) 2nd
Fugleman (1851) pulled up
Abd-El-Kader (1852) pulled up
Currig (1853) last of seven
Little Charley (1855) knocked over
Hopeless Star (1857) pulled over
1852: Liverpool Autumn Chase - Carrig
1855: Worcester Grand Annual - Potter
Denis Wynne died at Rossmore Lodge, Ireland on November 27, 1858, aged 42.