Gina Bryce to Make History as First Female Grand National Commentator for BBC

Historic Milestone in Horse Racing Commentary

Broadcaster Gina Bryce will create broadcasting history this Saturday when she becomes the first woman in the modern era to provide live racecourse commentary for the Randox Grand National at Aintree. This 41-year-old racing expert will handle the third leg of BBC Radio 5 Live's coverage before passing to lead commentator John Hunt for the climax of the world's most famous steeplechase.

A Trailblazer's Journey

Bryce's path to this historic moment includes:

• Began broadcasting career in 2008
• Four years with Channel 4 Racing
• Regular appearances with Sky Sports Racing and international meetings
• Current presenter for BBC 5 Live's coverage of Cheltenham Festival and Epsom Derby

"Never in a million years did I think I'd get this opportunity," Bryce confessed. "It's incredibly exciting though slightly terrifying. Being the first female commentator makes it doubly special."

Unique Commentary Challenges

While not her primary role, Bryce has navigated some unusual commentary scenarios:

• Called an entire race card at Compiegne (France) featuring Arabian maiden and cross-country races
• Covered emergency commentary for greyhound racing when systems failed
• Prepared for the National by calling Friday's Topham Chase over the same obstacles

Racing Through the Decades

The only previous female commentator was Mirabel Topham in 1952 during unusual circumstances:

• Family owned Aintree racecourse at the time
• Commentated due to BBC copyright dispute
• Race occurred in thick fog with multiple early falls

Modern Broadcast Details

Randox Grand National 2025

• Venue: Aintree Racecourse
• Date: Saturday, 5 April
• Time: 16:00 BST
• Coverage: Full commentary on BBC Radio 5 Live with digital coverage via BBC Sport

Bryce will be supported by experienced commentators Darren Owen and Gary O'Brien before passing to John Hunt for the dramatic finale. This milestone continues BBC's tradition of innovation in racing coverage, following precedents set by veterans like Cornelius Lysaght.