Changes made to the Randox Aintree Grand National, which took place on Saturday, have been commended for aiding in the execution of what has been tagged the “cleanest” iteration of the globally renowned competition.
The famously challenging race managed to avoid any horses falling, with 21 out of 32 competitors finishing the course, marking the highest number of completions since 1992. An initial 34 were declared, but two didn’t participate.
There were riders unseated from four horses, including the 2023 champion Corach Rambler, who departed at the very first obstacle and then took a tumble at the second – all this without a jockey. He, as well as all other participants, remained uninjured after the race. Meanwhile, seven horses were assisted off the course.
Regardless of the course’s demanding conditions and I Am Maximus winning with more than a seven-length lead, it’s been a while since so many competitors were in the fight during the National’s final stages. This exciting event was dubbed a “wonderful spectacle” by previous champion jockey, Tony McCoy, during his commentary on ITV.
The annual race, which repeatedly faces scrutiny due to concerns over horse wellbeing and was interrupted by animal rights activists causing a 15-minute delay last year, represented an optimal outcome for the UK’s racing authorities this time around.
Among the amendments that the Jockey Club – the owner of Aintree – introduced were reducing the maximum number of participants from 40 and repositioning the first fence. Additionally, the 11th obstacle was cut down by two inches.
Jockey Club CEO, Nevin Truesdale, commended the alterations, stating that they have had a definitively beneficial effect. According to him, the last time there were more race finishers was back in 1992, making this a much-celebrated success. He mentioned that the standing start model seemed effective and he felt the jockeys displayed good sense, thereby contributing to a well-executed race.
While traditionalists might argue that the randomness and unpredictability add to the National’s appeal, the lack of following day negative headlines about animal welfare evoke the new reality of the race.
Rachael Blackmore, the jockey who guided Minella Indo to third place and clinched a 2021 victory on Minella Times, mentioned that the excitement of the race was in no way diminished. “The race was incredibly enjoyable to participate in, I had ample space when necessary and it was an overall good ride,” she elaborated.
Ruby Walsh, a former two-time National winner, lauded the race during his commentary on ITV. “The event was an absolute triumph. I thoroughly savoured watching the competition and it greatly showcased our sport. What we offer here is unique, and if this doesn’t convince the public about the magnificence of this sport, I am not certain what will,” he remarked.
However, animal rights organisations, predictably enough, disagree. Animal Aid, in particular, highlighted two horse fatalities at the Aintree event on Friday. Giovinco tragically fell over the Mildmay course fences resulting in fatal harm, whilst Pikar fell during a handicap hurdle.
In other recent news, the Gowran card that was rearranged for Wednesday has been affected by adverse weather conditions, following a substantial 70mm deluge within the past week. Paddy Graffin, the clerk of the course, revealed a minor improvement in conditions over the weekend but has officially pulled the plug on the meeting going ahead. “This autumn, winter, and spring have been challenging as we all can recognise. It has been a difficult period for everyone, and although the Gowran team has put in tremendous efforts, this situation is inevitably outside of their influence. Unfortunately, Wednesday is not a viable option,” he announced.