The Grand National is the horse race that unites the whole nation, for one day each year almost every household takes a keen interest in the jockeys and thoroughbreds.

The National is an annual steeplechase, run over 4 miles 3.5 furlongs (just over 7km) with the horses jumping 30 fences in total. Due to its length and the fact that it features fences much larger than those typically experienced, it is widely renowned for its unpredictability which is likely a contributing factor to its estimated TV audience of of 10 million.

The race has been run since 1839 and now a staggering 150,000 people flock to Liverpool every April to watch the race live at Aintree.

With 40 horses now confirmed to run tomorrow over towering fences and jostling for a place in the pack, what weather will the equine contestants have to look forward to? The latest going reports 

that a band of rain is expected to push in from the west on Friday night with some heavy bursts likely. The rain is expected to clear by Saturday morning to leave a bright day with sunny intervals but also the risk of showers breaking out once again, which could be heavy and give the risk of hail and thunder. The showers should begin to ease through the evening, but not before a few further showers potentially affect the course during the race.

If you are still searching for a horse to bet on, it might be a good idea to check for horses who deal well with rain or if you're in to pathetic fallacy then the two entries Many Clouds or Black Thunder may grab your attention.

Many Clouds is currently favourite for the race, he won it last year and will be the first since the legendary Red Rum to bag back to back titles if he can repeat his performance this year. Many clouds is ridden by jockey Leighton Aspell who also won the race in 2014 on Pineau de Re and is looking for his third National victory on the bounce.

WATCH LEIGHTON ASPELL WIN THE 2015 GRAND NATIONAL FROM HIS GO PRO CAMERA:

So, if you are excited about watching 40 race horses and their riders battle it out for the one million pound prize pot but don't fancy the crowds or braving the weather, there are other options.

Many people opt to watch the Grand National at a local pub or see our top tips for hosting your own Grand National party at home!