Pineau de Re , born on May 8, 2003, is a French-bred racehorse who made history by winning the 2014 Grand National at Aintree. He began his career in National Hunt Flat races, quickly showing his potential with a victory at Fairyhouse in February 2008.

Throughout his early racing career, Pineau de Re showed promise across different disciplines. After winning in National Hunt Flat races at Fairyhouse, he proved his versatility by competing successfully in both hurdles and steeplechases. In his hurdling career, he demonstrated his class by placing second in prestigious races including the Grade I Royal Bond Novice Hurdle and the Grade II Michael Purcell Memorial Novice Hurdle. While his transition to steeplechasing started slowly, his natural jumping ability eventually shone through, culminating in that impressive 23-length victory in the Ulster Grand National at Downpatrick.

He later made his mark in both hurdles and steeplechases, but his big breakthrough came in April 2013 when he won the Ulster Grand National at Downpatrick by an impressive 23 lengths. This victory caught the eye of owner John Provan, who decided to purchase Pineau and place him under the training of Dr. Richard Newland in Worcestershire.

Pineau de Re reached the peak of his career in 2014 when, ridden by jockey Leighton Aspell, he triumphed in the Grand National at odds of 25/1. After taking the lead at the final fence, he powered ahead to win by five lengths, securing his place in the annals of steeplechase history.

Following his Grand National success, Pineau continued racing until 2016, even achieving a rare feat by winning another race after his Aintree victory—something that hadn’t been done by a Grand National winner since Bindaree in 2003. His last race took place at Uttoxeter in April 2016, before he retired at the age of 13.  

Life After Racing 

"I used to ride out for Dr. Newland (trainer), and once Pineau retired in 2016/17, I took him on and retrained him," says Lizzie, Pineau's current owner. "Since then, we've done eventing, showjumping, hunting, team chasing, and showing. Now, he enjoys a quieter life, still competing but at a lower level. He even lets my 3-year-old son ride him!"

"He's always been a picky eater, but since we found EquiNectar, he has a much better appetite and maintains his condition, especially as the seasons change!"

Now at 22 years old, Pineau de Re is living a fulfilling retirement. Lizzie describes his personality: "He's quite special, and you're more than welcome to share him on social media!" Her pride in his career and current well-being shines through, as she adds, "I have so many pictures of him!"

One of the most heartwarming aspects of Pineau's retirement is the strong bond he's formed with Lizzie's family, particularly her young son. His gentle demeanor shows how successfully he’s transitioned from a racehorse champion to a beloved family companion. Pineau even spends time with other retired racing legends who are enjoying their second careers, including Neptune Collonges (the 2012 Grand National winner).