Grand National: 88 Horses Have Died in the Race Since 1839
A History of Tragedy at the World's Most Famous Steeplechase
By Peter Smith, ITV News Correspondent
The 175th running of the Grand National at Aintree in Liverpool last week delivered more than its usual share of drama and excitement. But behind the spectacle, there is a tragic history that cannot be ignored.
Since the first Grand National in 1839, a total of 88 horses have died during the race. That's an average of one horse death every two years. The most recent fatality occurred in 2021, when the horse Up for Review fell and was fatally injured at the 22nd fence.
The Grand National is one of the most challenging and dangerous races in the world. The course is four miles and 514 yards long, with 30 fences to jump. The fences are made of wood and brush, and they are often very difficult to clear.
The horses that run in the Grand National are all thoroughbreds, and they are trained to jump fences from a young age. However, even the best-trained horses can make mistakes, and those mistakes can have fatal consequences.
The death of a horse in the Grand National is always a tragedy. It is a reminder of the dangers that these animals face, and it is a reminder of the importance of animal welfare.
There have been calls to ban the Grand National in the past, but these calls have always been met with resistance from the racing industry. The Grand National is a tradition, and it is one of the most popular sporting events in the world.
However, the tragic history of the race cannot be ignored. The death of 88 horses since 1839 is a sobering reminder of the dangers involved in this sport.
It is up to the racing industry to ensure that the Grand National is run in a safe and humane manner. The lives of these animals depend on it.
Komentar