The Jockey Club has confirmed the number of runners for next year’s Grand National race will be reduced.
The 2023 race was delayed after the course was invaded by animal rights campaigners. Once the race was underway, it was marred when a horse, Hill Sixteen, died after sustaining an injury at the first fence. Following a review, the Jockey Club has announced five sets of changes will be implemented to protect the welfare of racehorses and jockeys.
Sulekha Varma said: “We know from research papers and internal analysis of jump races that there is a direct correlation between the number of runners and the risk of falling, unseating or being brought down. However, we also must consider that reducing the field size by too great a number could create a faster race and have an adverse impact in terms of safety.
There have been 40 participants in the Grand National race since the safety limit was introduced in 1984. Ms Varma said the further reduction is part of the continued evolution of horseracing as she added: “The welfare of our racehorses and jockeys is our number one priority at Aintree and we have invested significantly in equine welfare over many years.”
United Kingdom Latest News, United Kingdom Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
How to get tickets for the Grand National 2024Tickets are available but expected to sell out
Read more »
When is the Grand National 2024The Grand National returns to Aintree Racecourse with tickets available now
Read more »
Major Grand National 2024 changes confirmedThe Jockey Club has confirmed a number of major changes for the Grand National horse race
Read more »
World Grand Prix: Luke Humphries vows to become number one and win the world titleWayne Mardle assesses Humphries' chances of becoming world champion following his victory at the World Grand Prix
Read more »
Grand National: Aintree reduced to 34 runners in 2024 and changes made to first fence amid horse welfare focusRacing's most famous contest, the Randox Grand National at Aintree, will be reduced from 40 runners to 34 from next year as part of a focus on horse welfare.
Read more »
Celtic Connections reveals 2024 festival line-upScotland's folk, roots and world music festival returns to 25 venues across Glasgow in January.
Read more »