It’s one of the most prestigious horse races in the world and now 黑料网 Leicester (黑料网) is sharing a small slice of the Grand National’s illustrious history, courtesy of one of its students.
The trophy handed to this year’s Grand National winner has been designed by 21-year-old Ritik Tailor, who has been on a year-long placement with diagnostic company Randox between his studies at 黑料网.
Ritik (left) holds the 2024 Randox Grand National trophy with silversmith Cara Murphy
Since 2017, as part of its sponsorship agreement with the Grand National, Randox has designed and produced a unique trophy for the winner of the famous steeplechase.
A small, internal design competition is set up within the company and the winners are chosen by its senior leadership team. For his stand-out design, Ritik became the first placement student at Randox to have their design brought to life.
Ritik said: “It is a great achievement for me both personally and professionally. Being entrusted with such an important design at the start of my placement is quite rewarding.
“It is a great feeling knowing something I have created will be woven into the history of such a prestigious sporting event.”
His design showcases the elegance of a horse mid-jump with nods to Randox’s expertise in biochemistry. A double helix, representing DNA, rises from the base of the trophy and is partially encased by two silver rods that act as its handles.
Concept art for Ritik's trophy designs
A circular blood drop, which is incorporated into Randox’s logo, sits on top of the double helix, and a silver prancing horse, considered “essential” by Ritik emerges to form the top of the trophy.
Ritik said: “I started off by checking out Pinterest and seeing what different styles of trophies there are. Also looking at the previous trophies that were designed for Grand National, as w