Shannon O’Neill Designs 2018 Randox Health Grand National Trophy

Designed by celebrated silversmith, Shannon O’Neill, this year’s trophy was conceived in her studio, a former stable, in the grounds of Burghley House in Stamford. Its subtle details perfectly tell the story of the greatest horse race in the world and the preventative healthcare innovations of the principal sponsor, Randox Health. This is the second year running that Shannon has been awarded this prestigious commission after Randox representatives saw her work on display at The Goldsmiths’ Company collection in London.

Based on the classic ‘coupes’ style champagne glass, the trophy features an interpretation of healthy brain synapses and blood cells masquerading as champagne bubbles. One of the most striking features is an ECG depicting the healthy heartbeat of a thoroughbred acquired from top equine surgeons at Newmarket.

Shannon said of the commission piece; 

"No one person could have created this by themselves, which is why it required me to incorporate the skills of other smiths with a wider skill base. It was thanks to The Goldsmiths’ Company and some of the very best and most experienced silversmiths in the country who I’ve had the privilege to work with, that I was able to bring this design to fruition.”

Randox Health Managing Director Dr Peter FitzGerald, added; 

“Having worked with Shannon in 2017, we knew that she appreciated and captured the essence and vision of Randox in her trophy designs. She has a wonderful ability to seamlessly blend our achievements in healthcare with those of the racing world and we’re so pleased with the outcome of her work this year.”

Image credit: Ros Atkinson