Ahead of the Grand National 2026, Caitlin reflects on how family traditions can be linked to gambling and the impact this can have.
Growing up, the Grand National was a bit of family tradition for us. We’d all sit together, go through the newspaper to look at all the different horses and jockeys. Each of us would choose a horse based on whether we liked the name or the colours – sometimes fighting over the silliest one – and my grandad would head down to the betting shop and put £1 on each of our picks.
At the time, it felt fun – not the betting itself, but it was something that we did every year as an excuse to gather and laugh. I suppose it was a bonus if you actually picked the horse that won. Though as I got older that feeling started to shift, and the enjoyment faded over time for all of us – and we stopped doing it altogether.
Looking back, I still feel fondly about the memories but I know that they were never about the Grand National or gambling – they’re about the time we spent together. What’s changed is how we choose to connect now, and without betting being a part of it. It’s made me more aware of how easily gambling can became wrapped up in traditions, and how important it is to pause and think about what we really value.
We’re here to support you. The National Gambling Helpline is available 24/7 by calling 0808 8020 133. There are many ways to get in touch if you’re not comfortable calling us. Make the step that feels right for you and we’ll be on the other end of the line ready to help.
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