MEDIA GUIDE APRIL 12-14 - Grand National
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MEDIA GUIDE APRIL 12-14
CHA IRMA N ’S
WE LCOM E
F RO M RO S E PAT E R S O N
2018 is the second year that Randox Health
have generously sponsored the Grand
National and, following last year’s hugely
successful Festival, we have now built
a very strong relationship with them.
C O N T EN T S
Chairman’s Welcome 3 Last December, our stable visit broke with tradition. With One For Arthur off the track
for the season, we agreed with Lucinda Russell that it would be best if we looked
Randox Health’s Welcome 4
elsewhere. This we did and had a great day at Grange Hill Farm near Guiting Power
& Sponsorship
(home of the famous Hollow Bottom pub).
Ambassadors 6
Grand National Thursday – 8 We watched Nigel Twiston-Davies’s impressive string powering up his mountainous
A Day for Champions all-weather gallop, including his exciting chaser Blaklion, impressive winner just a few
Ladies Day 10 days later of the Randox Health Becher Chase over the big fences. We warmly thank
Grand Women’s Summit 12 Nigel and his team for their hospitality and kindness.
Randox Health Grand National 13
Last year, we also welcomed a new television partner in ITV Racing, who have
Festival Preview
impressed so many with their outstanding coverage and excellent understanding of
2 Unique Race & Global Phenomenon 14 horse welfare. You will remember how unusually warm it was last year and the ITV 3
Anniversaries 16 coverage of the action we took and why it was essential was superbly handled by all
Gone But Not Forgotten 17 the team.
Community Involvement 18
Off the racecourse, we have continued to develop our local community programme.
Welfare & Safety 20
This was recognised by the Racecourse Association who elected us the winner of this
Racing Explained 22 category at their Annual Showcase Awards for a third consecutive year. Furthermore,
Roll of Honour 23 I was delighted for John Baker and his team that Aintree were also voted Racecourse
Results & Reviews 26 of the Year; the first time we have won this illustrious award.
2017/2016/2015/2014
2017 was a significant year in the long history of the Grand National. 1967 saw the
JO C KEY S extraordinary victory of Foinavon and in 1977 the great Red Rum ran in his fifth
2017 Winning Jockey Derek Fox 32 consecutive National, storming to his record third triumph, while 1997 saw the bomb
Jockey Records 34 scare, course evacuation and the only Monday National.
Retired Jockeys 36
Not so many anniversaries this year, but we expect the 2018 Festival to be better than
ever. We will witness three days of top-class racing and we have invested again to
TRA I NERS
enhance the Festival experience for all our racegoers.
Greatest Trainers 38
Irish-Trained Winners 40 Our prize money over the three-day meeting has increased again to more than £3.2
Trainer Facts 41 million and the £1-million Randox Health Grand National will once again be run as the
2017 Winning Trainer Lucinda Russell 42 penultimate race on Saturday’s card at 5.15pm.
Trainer Records 44
Finally, I hope you enjoy reading our 2018 Media Guide which is packed with facts and
O WNERS figures covering the history of the Grand National Festival.
2017 Winning Owner Two Golf Widows 48
Successful Owners 50
FACTS
Facts & Figures 52
Overseas Interest 58
Grand National Timeline 60
Race Conditions 69
Trainers & Jockeys at the Randox 71
Health Grand National Festival
Past Results 74
RAN DOX HEALTH G RAND NAT I O N AL F E S T I VAL 2 0 1 8
SPONSOR’S
“ IT IS W IT H
IM M E N S E
P R IDE T H AT W E
CE LE B RAT E O U R
WELCOME
S E CO N D Y E A R
AS S P O N S O R S
O F T H E WO R LD’ S
“
G R E AT E S T CH AS E .
“Just as we shared the exquisite thrill
of approaching Aintree to experience
the first Randox Health Grand National,
we look forward to coming together in
2018 to watch history being written, as
40 of the very best horses and jockeys
compete to be crowned champion:
the ultimate prize in Jump racing.
TH IS IS “This is one of those moments in life we
live for.
“Randox now operates in 145 countries,
in over 20% of the world’s laboratories,
RANDOX HE A LT H
C LINI C LIV E R P O O L
ON E O F
and in many of the leading universities.
“And this is why we do what we do. Our award-winning scientists and
WH AT Provides the world’s
Randox Health is the provider of the engineers make up over a quarter of our
most advanced health checks
TH OS E
most advanced health checks in the workforce and last year, 17% of turnover
was reinvested into R&D. This dedication to the public; coming April
world. We are driven by a desire to help
people live healthier lives for longer. to innovation has led to partnerships with
internationally renowned organisations H O W MUCH From £40 per month
MOM E N T S including the Dana-Farber Cancer for a 12-month programme
“With the opening of our flagship clinic
in the heart of Liverpool this year, we Institute and Transgene, in the pursuit
of creating next-generation therapies LO CATIO N Exchange Station,
IN LIFE W E
are strengthening our commitment to
4 that will revolutionise patient care. Tithebarn St, Liverpool L2 2QP 5
the city which has welcomed us with
open arms. Here people can access the O PENING HOUR S OF LI VE R POOL C LI N I C
world’s most advanced health checks “This year will also see the second
LIVE FO R ”
Randox Health Week, providing a stage 0730 – 1700 (Mon – Fri); late
and specialised testing. We use patented
technologies which enable our scientific upon which we explore advances and evenings & Saturdays on request
experts and GPs to diagnose pre-illness, trends in global healthcare with those
at the forefront of the industry. 2018 PH O NE 0800 2545 130
empowering people to take preventive
Dr Peter FitzGerald action to stay healthy and avoid sickness. will focus on three distinct themes:
MO RE INFOR M ATI ON randoxhealth.com
mental health, the work of the Global
CBE, FREng, DL This is the future of health care.
Active City initiative and preventive
“Our advances in blood science health. We will hear first-hand from
technology have been developed the legendary Champion Jockey Sir RAND OX HE A LT H WE E K
over 35 years through research and Anthony McCoy about how Randox
development. In addition to our market- Health was able to diagnose his WH AT A three-day healthcare
leading human healthcare, our products prediabetes and help him to reverse it. showcase featuring the UK’s
have been used in the veterinary market leading academics and scientists,
for over 30 years. Of note is our equine “We are pleased that this year along
with our founding partners, Liverpool with personal appearance and
panel, which has recently included
John Moore University, we will be talk from Sir Anthony McCoy
the biomarker adiponectin. This has
been successfully incorporated in the joined by Liverpool Hope University.
WH EN April 9 - 11
assessment of horses regarding obesity,
equine metabolic syndrome, and the “I would like to recognise everyone WH ERE It will be held in venues across
risk of laminitis. We work with key who made the first Randox Health
Liverpool and is open to the public
Veterinary Hospitals and laboratories Grand National the success that
around the world, who use a range of it was – in particular our partners MO RE INFOR M ATI ON
Randox clinical products, including at The Jockey Club and ITV.
Visit randoxhealth.com
The Irish Equine Centre in Kildare.
“As we prepare to crown our 2018
“By focusing on designing innovative champion, I wish every horse, jockey,
diagnostic technologies such as our trainer, owner and groom taking FOLLOW RANDOX HEALTH
patented Biochip Array Technology which part the very best and warmly @ THE GRAND NATIONAL
allows us to simultaneously carry out thank you for joining us to make
this the exhilarating spectacle that
many tests from a single sample, we are
stops the world in its tracks.” TWITTER & FACEBOOK
revolutionising the future of healthcare.
@RANDOXHEALTH #RHGN18
DR PETER FITZGERALD
FOUNDER & MANAGING
DIRECTOR, RANDOX HEALTH
RAN DOX HEALTH G RAND NAT I O N AL F E S T I VAL 2 0 1 8
RAND OX HE ALTH G RAND NATI ONAL
FESTIVA L
L AU RA W R IG H T
Sporting soprano Laura Wright
is an ambassador at Aintree
Racecourse for a third year.
AMBASSA DOR S
Laura is the country’s leading figure
for connecting music and sport and
renowned for her performances at some
of the world’s biggest sporting events.
Beginning her career as the official
anthem singer for the England Rugby
Team, she has gone onto perform
at very prestigious sporting events
including the Rugby World Cup, the
British Grand Prix, the Ashes, NFL
matches, the FA Cup Final and opening
ceremonies of the Invictus Games.
Her involvement at the Randox Health
Grand National Festival spans across
the three days including performing at
the new Opening Ceremony on Grand
National Thursday, being involved in
the Style Awards on Ladies Day and
introducing the world’s most iconic race
by singing the National Anthem before
the Randox Health Grand National.
Laura will also perform at Alder Hey
Hospital during Aintree’s annual
jockeys’ visit to the world-renowned
children’s facility on the morning
of Ladies Day, performing a few
Disney classics to the children and
parents in the hospital atrium.
6 7
K AT I E WA L S H
The most successful female
jockey in Grand National history,
Katie Walsh takes up her Aintree
ambassadorial role for a fourth year.
Daughter of Irish trainer and television
pundit, Ted Walsh, and sister to leading
European Championships in London the 2017 Women Football European Jump jockey, Ruby Walsh, it is safe
SA M QU E K in 2015. Sam notably was named Championships in Holland, Channel 5’s to say the Walsh’s achievements
‘Player of the Match’ in the final versus coverage of the Rugby Premiership and are to be reckoned with.
2016 Rio Olympic Games gold medallist the Netherlands, the World and presented the NFL Show on BBC 1.
and local sports star, Sam Quek joins Olympic Champions at the time. Aboard Seabass in the 2012 Grand
the Randox Health Grand National team Whether or not Sam chooses to National, amateur rider Katie came third
of ambassadors for a second year. After Rio, Sam starred in ITV’s ‘I’m have a go at the Tokyo Olympics in of the 40 runners, giving her the accolade
A Celebrity, Get Me Out Of Here’ 2020, she is fast establishing herself of the best finishing position by a female
Sam has played as a defender for series. Enduring a lot of ‘bush as a sports presenter of note. rider in the world’s greatest chase.
both the England and Great Britain tucker trials’ and jungle ‘critters’, she
Hockey teams. At the 2016 Rio finished a well-deserved fourth. During the 2018 Randox Health Katie road Seabass again in 2013,
Olympics, Sam performed a key Grand National Festival, Sam will be coming home 13th, and got around for
role in the Great Britain team that Sam, who has a passion for promoting involved in the new and exclusive a third time in 2014 when occupying
famously triumphed in an exhilarating women and girls in sport, was Champions Lounge on Grand National the same position on Vesper Bell.
Most recently, Katie rode in the 2017 through blogs, media interviews
final against the Netherlands. awarded an MBE in the New Year’s Thursday and will be a panellist for Randox Health Grand National and and social media campaigns.
Honours 2017 for services to hockey, the Grand Women’s Summit on Ladies Katie was the third woman to win the
finished the race for the fourth time
During the Rio Olympics, Sam won along with her teammates. Day, joining leading figures from Irish Grand National in 2015, guiding the
in five rides when 19th on the Paul She also hosts the course walk for
her 50th cap for Great Britain and horseracing, sport and business to Sandra Hughes-trained Thunder And
Nicholls-trained Wonderful Charm. delegates at the Grand Women’s
now has more than 125 combined During this fast rise in fame, Sam focus on prominent topics in sport. Roses to victory at Fairyhouse, and
Summit on the morning of Ladies Day.
caps for England and Great Britain. has been busy building a career as then a year later went on to secure her
Katie will be joining Sam and Laura
a sports presenter. Sam was part first Grade One winner aboard Blow
to support the promotion on the
She was also part of the England of Channel 4’s presenting team for By Blow in the Champion INH Flat
Randox Health Grand National Festival
Hockey team that won gold at the Race at the Punchestown Festival.
RAN DOX HEALTH G RAND NAT I O N AL F E S T I VAL 2 0 1 8
GRA ND NAT I ON A L Beth Tweddle, Olympic medalist
and three-time World Champion,
commented: “I’ve always been a
TH UR S DAY A DAY FOR CH A MP ION S
Grand National fan. Every year I make
sure I watch the Grand National – it’s
“
the race that stops the nation.
“When I ask people about Grand
National Thursday, they always say
what a fantastic day it is, superb G RA N D N AT ION AL THURSDAY
Sporting icons to celebrate Merseyside Sport racing and their best day of the three.
I’m delighted to be part of Aintree’s IS A FA N TASTIC DAY OF
on Grand National Thursday celebration of Merseyside Sport – we
certainly have a lot of talented people RAC IN G A N D I RE ALLY LIKE
across many sport which I’m sure will
T HAT A IN T REE A RE USING THIS
PL AT FORM TO C ELE BRATE THE
be showcased really well on the day.”
BEST OF M ERSEYSIDE SP ORT
Aside from the Q&A sessions and
rubbing shoulders with the stars
throughout the day, racegoers
will receive a Buffet ‘Feast for
Champions’ in the Champions Kenny Dalglish
Lounge, breakfast canapes, Earl of
Derby Grandstand seats, traditional
Afternoon Tea, musical entertainment,
complimentary racecard and free G RA N D N AT I O N A L T HU RS DAY In 2017, Buveur D’Air joined great
car parking at one of the greatest performers Annie Power, Jezki,
horseracing Festival in the world. BAC KG RO U N D I N FO RM AT I O N Istabraq, Morley Street, Beech Road,
Dawn Run, Gaye Brief, Monksfield,
Graeme Sharp, Everton FC ambassador, From 1977 onwards, when the Randox Night Nurse and Comedy Of Errors
declated: “The Randox Health Grand Health Grand National Festival by winning both the Champion Hurdle
National Festival is a global event became an all-Jump meeting, Grand and the Betway Aintree Hurdle.
but, as with Everton FC, it’s very National Thursday – the first day of
much part of Merseyside heritage. the three-day festival - has developed Often regarded as the greatest
an outstanding programme of racing hurdle race of all-time, the 1977
“Merseyside Sport has a lot of be action, a true Day for Champions. renewal of the Betway Aintree
proud of so I’m delighted to be Hurdle saw a dead-heat between
8 representing Everton FC to help It is only one of three racedays during Monksfield and Night Nurse, both dual 9
Aintree celebrate it on the first day the entire British Jump season to winners of the Champion Hurdle.
of the three-day meeting. offer four Grade One (G1) contests.
The G1 Doom Bar Anniversary 4-Y-
“Grand National Thursday is also Uniquely, Grand National Thursday O Juvenile Hurdle over two miles
one of the best days racing in the is the only day of the year with two and a furlong is the natural next
Jump calendar with four Grade open G1 races and two G1 contests target for horses who competed
Ones and not to be missed.” for novices. in the JCB Triumph Hurdle at
the Cheltenham Festival.
Liverpool was recently voted as Britain’s The G1 chase action on Grand National
greatest sporting city and Aintree is Thursday is headlined by the Betway Last season Defi Du Seuil followed in
looking to celebrate that by ensuring Bowl, staged over three miles and the footsteps of Pollardstown, Detroit
all sports are represented on the day. a furlong of the Mildmay Course. City, Katchit and Zarkandar by winning
both the JCB Triumph Hurdle and the
Michael Owen, former Liverpool FC The fabulous roll of honour boasts the Doom Bar Anniversary 4-Y-O Hurdle.
and England footballer, remarked: names of some of the very best chasers
“I am delighted to be part of of the modern era with Wayward Lad, Racegoers also get an opportunity
the new Champions Lounge on Desert Orchid, See More Business, to see racing over the Grand National
Grand National Thursday. Florida Pearl, Siliviniaco Conti and fences for the first time at the meeting,
Cue Card all having been successful.
BRAN D N E W C H A M P ION S LOUN GE W ITH KE NNY DALGLI S H, The new Champions Lounge will be with the two mile, five furlong Randox
located next to Aintree’s Parade Ring and “I’m a massive horseracing fan and Health Fox Hunters’ Chase taking
M IC HA E L OW E N , G RAE ME SH AR P, SAM QUEK, BET H hosted by BBC Breakfast’s Dan Walker. the Grand National is such an iconic Lizzie Kelly created history in 2017 place on Grand National Thursday.
when becoming the first female
TW ED D L E , S I R A P MCCOY & MAN Y MOR E STARS It will consist of Q&A sessions race watched by millions around
the world. I really like the fact that jockey to win the Betway Bowl Restricted to horses who have run in
throughout Grand National Thursday
Aintree is not only showcasing the aboard Tea For Two. point-to-points and hunter chases and
Aintree will host a ‘Celebration of Liverpool FC ambassador Kenny Dalglish with sporting celebrities representing
Merseyside Sport’ for Grand National said: “I’ve been a big Grand National fan sports synonymous to success in quality of racing on Grand National ridden by amateur riders, the Randox
Thursday, but also celebrating The G1 Betway Aintree Hurdle moved Health Fox Hunters’ Chase is a good
Thursday at the 2018 Randox since childhood and having played and Merseyside including Liverpool FC
Merseyside Sport on the day as well.” to Grand National Thursday in 2013, race for multiple winners, with Katarino
Health Grand National Festival at managed Liverpool FC, I’ve enjoyed going legends, Kenny Dalglish, Michael Owen
having previously been on Grand (2005 & 2006) and On The Fringe
Aintree Racecourse, April 12. to Aintree to watch the iconic race. and John Aldridge; Everton FC’s Graeme
To celebrate the inspiring successes National Day. The race is the only (2015 & 2016) both having scored
Sharp and Graham Stuart; horseracing
of Merseyside Invictus Games British G1 open hurdle run over the twice since the turn of the century.
One of the best days in British Jump “When the fixtures came out as players, legend, Sir AP McCoy; Olympic Gold
heroes who participated in the distance of two and a half miles.
Racing calendar, the newly renamed the first thing we looked at was what Medallist, Sam Quek; Olympic medallist
Grand National Thursday – A Day for game we had on Grand National Day. and three-time World Champion, 2017 Invictus Games in Toronto in Ultra-competitive handicap action
November, Aintree is inviting them First staged in 1975, it has proved comes courtesy of the two-mile
Champions will celebrate the many Beth Tweddle; Rugby League Legend,
to be part of the Champions Lounge to be the perfect follow-up G3 Betway Red Rum Handicap
successes of sport across Merseyside “Grand National Thursday is a fantastic Jon Wilkin; European Champion,
to share their uplifting stories. for horses who have won the Chase which commemorates
and horseracing with a brand new day of racing and I really like that Commonwealth gold and World
Champion Hurdle at Cheltenham. the legendary three-time Grand
Champions Lounge which will include Aintree are using this platform to silver medallist, Fran Halsall; Olympic
some of the very best sports stars from celebrate the best of Merseyside Sport Taekwondo Silver Medallist, Bianca National winner Red Rum.
across Merseyside and horseracing. – I am delighted to be part of it.” Walden and boxing star Paul Smith.
RAN DOX HEALTH G RAND NAT I O N AL F E S T I VAL 2 0 1 8
L ADIES
The Racecourse is pleased to announce OUTFIT is the new
official style partner of Aintree’s Ladies Day. OUTFIT is a
perfect fit for the aspiration and position of Ladies Day, as H AT F IE LDS ’ RAN G E
well as providing reputable, fashion expertise to the day.
ROV E R P R IZ E
Racegoers will have the opportunity to compete in
Simon Broughton, Head of Business - Hatfields Land
DAY
#FabulousFriday Style Award and be in for a chance of
winning one of the biggest-ever Grand National Ladies Day Rover, Liverpool, commented: “We are delighted to
Style Award prizes, a Range Rover Evoque plus £1,000 from be offering a Range Rover Evoque 2.0 SE Tech as the
OUTFIT and hair & beauty products from Barbara Daley. Ladies Day prize this year. It is one of the biggest days in
Liverpool and to be a part of the Festival is fantastic!”
A prize worth over £35,000, the Range Rover Evoque,
supplied by Hatfield’s Land Rover, Liverpool, is a 2.0 SE Tech
Diesel Manual with metallic paint and rear privacy glass.
This year the Style Award will be hosted through a digital
platform to speed up the entry process.
Racegoers can enter the Style Award competition by being
In the middle of the world-renowned snapped in front of the beautiful Style Award flower walls in the
Red Rum Garden at Aintree Racecourse, giving their details and
three-day Randox Health Grand then having the opportunity to download their unique image.
National Festival, Friday, April 13, is New for 2018 are Style Ambassadors who will be on the
look-out for fashionistas perfect for the competition.
the stylish and glamorous Ladies Day, The Style Award judging panel will be made up of industry
first officially established at Aintree experts who have a wealth of style and fashion knowledge.
Racecourse in the early 2000s. FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THE STYLE AWARD,
HEAD TO THE RANDOX HEALTH GRAND NATIONAL
WEBSITE, RANDOXHEALTHGRANDNATIONAL.CO.UK
FOR MORE DETAILS, VISIT
HATFIELDS.LIVERPOOL.L ANDROVER.CO.UK
10 O U T F IT 11
OUTFIT is the out-of-town Arcadia fashion
destination that features all of the latest
BAR BARA DALE Y
pieces from the best high street brands.
HAI R & B E AUT Y Top-to-toe collections from Topshop, Miss Selfridge,
Dorothy Perkins, Wallis, plus menswear from Burton
and Topman are all found under one roof, making
The Liverpool-based celebrity salon it the ultimate one-stop shopping venue.
has been part of the city’s style
scene for the past 28 years and “We are very proud and excited to be announced as the
continues to be one of the leading official style sponsor of Ladies Day at Aintree Racecourse,”
names in British hairdressing. said James Graham, Managing Director, OUTFIT.
The award-winning salon has “We have many stores and valued customers in and around
received international accolades the Liverpool area and it’s wonderful to be able to share
for its architectural design since in this fantastic day with the people of Merseyside.
moving to North Western Halls
in the midst of the city’s Capital “It is sure to be a brilliant experience for all involved and
of Culture 10 years ago. we can’t wait to see how stylish all the racegoers look.”
There has been much praise too OUTFIT was launched in 1995 and now
for its hairdressing work, being has a total of 80 stores nationwide.
named as Best Salon in the UK for
2018 by Marie Claire magazine as Local stores to Aintree Racecourse include:
well as Hair magazine’s Best Hair –– Outfit Liverpool Shopping Park, Edge Lane
Salon in the North and L’Oreal
Colour Trophy Grand Finalists.
–– Outfit New Mersey Shopping Park, Liverpool Speke
–– Outfit Cables Retail Park, Prescot
For the past five years the salon has
also had Leading Salons of the World –– Outfit Coliseum Shopping Park, Ellesmere Port
status, making it the ideal partner
for this year’s #FabulousFriday.
MORE INFORMATION CAN BE FOUND
AT OUTFITFASHION.COM OR BY
PLEASE GO TO FOLLOWIN G @OUTFITFASHIONUK
BARBARADALEYHAIR.CO.UK
RAN DOX HEALTH G RAND NAT I O N AL F E S T I VAL 2 0 1 8
G RA ND WO MEN ’ S
P RE VIE W
means more for the horses placed from
I T V’S S ECOND RANDOX HEALT H G RA N D fourth to tenth. The first three horses
home will still receive 80 per cent of the
NAT I ONAL FES T I VAL
SU M M I T
total prize fund, but for those finishing
ITV won the battle for the exclusive terrestrial television out of the first three, there will be
rights to cover horseracing in Britain, commenced increases ranging between £12,300 for
T IMINGS
the four-year contract on January 1 last year and thus
broadcast the Randox Health Grand National Festival
Prize money reaches record £3.21 million fourth place (£65,000 in 2018 compared
to £52,700 in 2017) to £4,000 for the
8.45am Arrival
from Aintree for the first time in 2017. The broadcaster
put a lot of resources into the programmes over the three
at Randox Health Grand National Festival tenth (£5,000 in 2018 compared to
£1,000 in 2017). The fifth will now receive
9.00am Grand Women’s Summit panel discussion to commence days and Ed Chamberlin (below) fronted the coverage. £40,000 (£26,500 in 2017), the sixth
10.30am Grand National course walk to begin, led by The peak British terrestrial audience for the 2017 Randox A new record amount of prize money of the three mile and a furlong chase £30,000 (£13,200), the seventh £20,000
Katie Walsh, Lucinda Russell and Carrie Ford Health Grand National was 8.2 million, with a high 62 per of £3.21 million is being offered for the include some of the very best performers (£6,800), the eighth £15,000 (£3,600)
12.00pm Champagne reception and lunch to be served cent audience share. 2018 Randox Health Grand National of the modern era, with Wayward Lad, and the ninth £10,000 (£2,000).
Festival, up from £3 million in 2017 Desert Orchid, See More Business,
in Paddock Lodge
Channel 4 Racing covered the Grand National for four and an increase of seven per cent. Florida Pearl, Siliviniaco Conti and The three-mile G1 Ryanair Stayers’
12.30pm Mark your card years and before that the BBC had shown the great race Cue Card all having been successful. Hurdle, won by the brilliant Big Buck’s
1.30pm First race since 1960. As revealed at the end of last year, for four consecutive years between
race values across every Jockey Club The Randox Health Fox Hunters 2009 and 2012, climbs by 20 per cent
Ladies Day at the Randox Health Grand National Festival
Racecourse - including Aintree - and Chase, staged over the Grand National
celebrates women in horseracing, sport and business by hosting RACI NG UK at all levels of the sport, are benefiting fences on Grand National Thursday,
to £180,000 (from £150,000) while
the popular Grand Women’s Summit. Racing UK is Britain’s premier horseracing channel, the two main supporting handicaps
from an £8-million injection during 2018. rises to £45,000, up £5,000. - the G3 Gaskells Handicap Hurdle
currently broadcasting live races from 37 of the UK’s top
Now in its fourth year, the Grand Women’s Summit attracts racecourses including Aintree. Racing UK was formed and the Listed Betway Handicap
The Randox Health Grand National Friday, April 13 is Ladies Day at the Chase - each receive a rise of £5,000
an exclusive panel of guest speakers to discuss prominent and launched in 2004 by 30 UK racecourses, who wanted Festival commences with Grand National 2018 Randox Health Grand National increase, taking them up to £75,000.
topics related to women’s sport, while delegates experience more control over their media rights and distribution. The Thursday on April 12, when the two Festival and a £50,000 boost to the
one of the best horseracing festivals in the world. company itself is a revolutionary approach to sports media of the four Grade 1 (G1) highlights on feature race, the G1 JLT Melling Chase,
rights management, as it allows the racecourses to own, this unique day of high-quality racing means it has a record total prize fund
Sally Nugent hosted the Grand Women’s Summit for the first time manage and develop their intellectual property across all receive a substantial prize money boost. of £250,000. Established in 1991 and RA N D OX H E A LT H G RA ND
in 2017 and again will be bringing her media expertise to delve platforms. All profits are returned to these racecourses,
deep into the hot topics of discussion this year. 2016 Rio Olympic
run over two and a half miles, the JLT N AT I O N A L FE S T IVA L
improving prize monies and facilities for horseracing up The G1 Betway Aintree Hurdle is now Melling Chase boasts outstanding
Gold Medallist and sports presenter, Sam Quek (below) will be and down the country. Racing UK services over 50,000 worth £250,000 (up £50,000 on the winners including Don Cossack, Sprinter The Randox Health Grand National
joining the panel line-up. More panellists will be announced soon. commercial and residential subscribers and is dedicated 2017 total). First staged in 1975, it has Sacre, Master Minded, Moscow Flyer, Festival consists of three days of
to broadcasting more than 750 live race meetings a year proved to be the perfect follow-up Viking Flagship and Remittance Man. great sporting action at Aintree
Following the panel discussion in the O’Sullevan facility, which with commentary, debate and tipping. for horses who have won the Unibet Racecourse with the eyes of the world
overlooks the world famous parade ring at Aintree Racecourse,
Champion Hurdle at Cheltenham in The G3 Randox Health Topham Chase, fixed firmly on what is happening.
delegates will also be treated to an exclusive walk around the
March. Buveur D’Air in 2017 joined the Grand National course race on
iconic Grand National course with jockey Katie Walsh and BBC RADI O 5 LI VE other great performers such as Annie Ladies Day, is worth £140,000, up The renamed Grand National Thursday
former rider Carrie Ford plus the 2017 Randox Health Grand BBC Radio 5 Live covers the Randox Health Grand
12 Power, Jezki, Istabraq, Morley Street, £20,000, while the G3 Alder Hey offers a great way to experience the 13
National winning trainer Lucinda Russell and her partner National Festival extensively, with live reporting of Beech Road, Dawn Run, Gaye Brief, Children’s Charity Handicap Hurdle Randox Health Grand National Festival
Peter Scudamore, an eight-time champion Jump jockey. all three days from Aintree augmented by a series of Monksfield, Night Nurse and Comedy Of increases to £75,000 from £70,000. for the first time and kick starts the
preview programmes and specials. Racing correspondent Errors by winning both the Champion action with four Grade One races - a
Cornelius Lysaght is at the centre of the BBC Radio 5 Live Hurdle and the Betway Aintree Hurdle. On Grand National Day, Saturday, April veritable feast of top-class horseracing
team at Aintree. The BBC’s first radio transmission from 14, the Randox Health Grand National action. See pages 8 & 9 for more details.
Aintree came in 1927 and lasted for over an hour, thus There is a £40,000 increase for the G1 is the most valuable Jump race in the
giving the BBC over 90 years of broadcasting experience Betway Bowl, which now has a total world with a prize fund of £1 million. A The middle day of this world-renowned
at the racecourse. Commentator Meyrick Good had to prize fund of £190,000. Past winners change to the distribution of this total Festival is the stylish and glamorous
cope with 37 runners and misty conditions when calling Ladies Day, first officially established at
home the favourite Sprig in a thrilling finish to the 1927 Aintree Racecourse in the early 2000s –
Grand National. George Allison covered the news aspects O RD ER O F RU N N I N G see pages 10, 11 and 12 for information.
before and after the race. GRA ND NATI O NA L TH URSDAY – TH URSDAY, A PRI L 12
TIME RACE DISTANCE PRIZE MONEY 2017 PRIZE MONEY 2018 The final day is a national treasure,
1.45pm Manifesto Novices’ Chase (G1) 2m 4f £100,000 £100,000
Grand National Day where, for nine
TALKS PORT 2.20pm
2.50pm
Doom Bar Anniversary 4YO Juvenile Hurdle (G1)
Betway Bowl Chase (G1)
2m 1f
3m 1f
£100,000
£150,000
£100,000
£190,000 minutes, the nation stops and is
talkSPORT, the world’s biggest sports station, will 3.25pm Betway Aintree Hurdle (G1) 2m 4f £200,000 £250,000 enthralled by the unfolding drama of
broadcast live from Aintree for the fifth successive year 4.05pm Randox Health Foxhunters’ Chase 2m 5f £40,000 £45,000 the most famous chase in the world.
with correspondent Rupert Bell in the thick of the action. 4.40pm Red Rum Handicap Chase (G3) 2m £90,000 £90,000
5.15pm Goffs Nickel Coin Mares’ Standard Open NHF (G2), 2m 1f £40,000 £45,000
Total £725,000 £820,000 Grand National Day provides excitement
and anticipation in abundance as
L A DI ES DAY – FRI DAY, A PRI L 13 the build-up gradually develops
TIME RACE DISTANCE PRIZE MONEY 2017 PRIZE MONEY 2018 towards the Randox Health Grand
1.40pm Alder Hey Handicap Hurdle (G3) 2m 4f £70,000 £75,000 National, staged for the 171st time.
2.20pm Betway Top Novices’ Hurdle (G1) 2m ½f £100,000 £100,000
2.50pm Betway Mildmay Novices’ Chase (G1) 3m 1f £100,000 £100,000
3.25pm JLT Melling Chase (G1) 2m 4f £200,000 £250,000 Grand National Day has sold out for
4.05pm Randox Health Topham Chase (G3) 2m 5f £120,000 £140,000 the last few years so advance booking
4.40pm Doom Bar Sefton Novices’ Hurdle (G1) 3m ½f £100,000 £100,000 is a necessity. Tickets and hospitality
5.15pm Weatherbys Private Bank Standard Open NHF (G2) 2m 1f £45,000 £45,000
packages for the 2018 Randox
Total £735,000 £810,000
Health Grand National Festival are
GRA ND NATI O NA L DAY – SATURDAY, A PRI L 14 available to purchase through www.
TIME RACE DISTANCE PRIZE MONEY 2017 PRIZE MONEY 2018 randoxhealthgrandnational.co.uk
1.45pm Gaskells Handicap Hurdle (G3) 3m ½f £70,000 £75,000
2.25pm Betway Mersey Novices’ Hurdle (G1) 2m 4f £100,000 £100,000 Each day of the festival has one race
3.00pm Doom Bar Maghull Novices’ Chase (G1) 2m £100,000 £100,000
3.40pm Betway Handicap Chase (Listed) 3m 1f £70,000 £75,000
over the Grand National Course, with
4.20pm Ryanair Stayers’ Hurdle (G1) 3m ½f £150,000 £180,000 the six other contests taking place
5.15pm Randox Health Grand National (G3) 4m 2½f £1,000,000 £1,000,000 on the separate Mildmay Course,
6.15pm Pinsent Masons Handicap Hurdle 2m ½f £50,000 £50,000 which consists of ordinary fences,
Total £1,540,000 £1,580,000 and the Hurdle & Flat Courses.
Grand total £3,000,000 £3,210,000
RAN DOX HEALTH G RAND NAT I O N AL F E S T I VAL 2 0 1 8
U NI QUE RACE
Whether at Aintree or at home
watching the ITV television coverage,
a general hush falls while the starter
calls the runners forward. The tape
is released to a huge roar - the most
& G LOBA L
anticipated race has begun.
The excitement begins at such a great
height, tumbles and hurtles onwards
throughout nine minutes of breathtaking
action and often afterwards.
P HE NO M E N ON
Betting slips or thoughts, carefully
clutched or pondered on, are not to be
fully celebrated until the result has been
officially announced. Replays are avidly
studied to determine what happened
where to each of the runners and riders.
Once-a-year punters come out in force
The Randox Health Grand National is unique – on Randox Health Grand National day,
studying the list of runners to locate
the race of dreams and creator of legends. their selection from the office/shop
sweepstake, or placing their wager on
a horse with a name they like or one
linked to a topical event – for instance,
Party Politics was a popular choice when
he won the great race in 1992, with the
nation on the brink of a general election.
At 5.15pm on Saturday, April 14, 2018,
the scheduled off-time of the Randox
Health Grand National, there will be
few bookmakers willing to lay odds
about what many in Britain, and plenty
more throughout the world, will be
doing for the next quarter of an hour.
14 Millions and millions of people in Britain 15
bet on the Randox Health Grand
National, making the race easily the
biggest single turnover event each
year, and the most anticipated.
Regular punters and the annually
curious can take a financial interest
Therefore, it is no surprise that Valentine’s and the Chair so well known in one of Britain’s 8,000 off course
the Randox Health Grand National to the millions who watch the race at betting shops, over the telephone,
receives more attention around the Aintree or on television each year. through the Internet, on their
world than any other horse race. smartphone or at Aintree Racecourse.
Familiar phrases of commentators
Since the inaugural running at such as “crossing the Melling Road” Not only is the great race compellingly
Aintree Racecourse way back in are built into people’s subconscious, demanding - the feeling of even
1839, when Lottery had his name while there is the ‘Elbow’, with completing is one cherished by
etched first on the exalted roll of the winning post in sight. those involved - but it is also
honour, victory in the Grand National very financially rewarding.
has been the pinnacle of ambition Many are the reversals of fortune
for owners, trainers and jockeys. on the long run from the final fence Prize money of £1 million is again on
to the line, as the last reserves offer for those who compete in the 171st
Actors, aristocrats, business people, of stamina ebb away and the running of the Randox Health Grand
comedians, coiffeurs, celebrities, chance of immortality is lost. National at Aintree in 2018, with the
moguls, politicians, pop stars, rewards stretching down to the 10th
sporting heroes, Kings, Queens and Devon Loch’s inexplicable collapse in home. It is by far the highest amount
Princes have all tried for glory, but the 1956 Grand National, a mere 50 of money that any chase can boast.
only a fortunate few succeed. yards from a famous victory for his
owner, The Queen Mother, serves as There are 150,000-plus racegoers
It is one of the biggest tests for a constant reminder that the race is at Aintree during the three days of
racehorse and rider who have to often decided on the final run-in. the Randox Health Grand National
complete two circuits of the iconic Festival, while the British television
Grand National course - with 30 fences And there is nothing quite like the audience numbers over eight
to be jumped as four miles, two furlongs sensation of heart-clutching, wriggling million, with more than 600 million
and about 74 yards are covered. expectation as the 40-strong field for worldwide seeing the action.
the Randox Health Grand National
Famous landmarks around the course is persuaded into a fair line, ahead The Randox Health Grand National
are an integral part of the Grand of the dash to the first fence. is thus a national treasure, both
National experience; with the fences enthralling and fascinating, and
such as Becher’s Brook, the Canal Turn, something to be cherished.
RAN DOX HEALTH G RAND NAT I O N AL F E S T I VAL 2 0 1 8
RA N DOX HEALTH GRAND NATI ONAL
ANNI V E R SARI ES
10 years ago Trainer
L A ND M A RKS
The 2018 renewal of the Randox Health
David Pipe emulated his
father Martin by saddling
10 The Randox Health Grand National has
Grand National on April 14 marks the
171st running of the great race.
the 2008 Grand National
winner. Pipe junior was
a tremendous history and each year
It is the second year of sponsorship by
responsible for Comply
Or Die, the successful 20 years ago The 7/1
sees people and horses associated with
Randox Health and also the second year 7/1 joint favourite, while 20 favourite Earth Summit
the world’s greatest chase pass away.
for ITV as the terrestrial broadcaster Martin scored with battled his way through
(2017 - 8.4 million viewers - a 62% share). Miinnehoma in 1994. the heavy going to score
GONE B U T NOT
by 11 lengths in 1998. He
Jockeys Leighton Aspell & Ruby Walsh 25 years ago One of became the first, and
25
are both bidding for a third Randox the saddest moments so far only, horse to win
Health Grand National victory in 2018 in Aintree’s long history the Grand National at
happened when the Aintree plus the Scottish
and either would become only the
FORGOT TE N
1993 Grand National and Welsh versions.
seventh rider in the race’s tremendous
history to achieve this feat. The overall was declared void after
riding record is George Stevens’ five two false starts.
successes. 35 35 years ago Corbiere
became the first Grand
National winner to be
Richard Johnson is set to make a record trained by a woman in
1983. Jenny Pitman won
21st appearance in the 2018 Randox
the race again in 1995
TO M M Y CA RBERRY M ERCY RI M ELL N O EL O ’ B R IE N
Health Grand National. The champion 40 years ago The Tommy Carberry, who died at the age Along with Ginger McCain, Fred Rimell Noel O’Brien, who died at 57 on
jockey has yet to succeed, though he
finished second on both Whats Up Boys
legendary Red Rum was
retired at the age of 13
40 with Royal Athlete.
of 75 in July, 2017, was only one of five
horsemen since 1900 to win the Grand
holds the record as the most successful
Grand National trainer ever with four wins.
December 19, 2017, was the senior Jump
handicapper in Ireland and provided
(2002) and Balthazar King (2014). on the eve of the 1978 National both as a jockey and as a trainer. his British counterpart Phil Smith with
16 Grand National after a His wife Mercy, who passed away invaluable assistance in framing the 17
Nigel Twiston-Davies, successful with hairline leg fracture was His riding success came in 1975, when he aged 98 on July 6, 2017, was an weights for the world’s greatest chase,
discovered. He lived on to 45 years ago The first
Earth Summit (1998) and Bindaree partnered the classy chaser L’Escargot, integral part of the training operation the Randox Health Grand National.
(2002), is trying to become the eighth the grand old age of 30. 45 of Red Rum’s record-
breaking three successes
then a 12-year-old, to a 15-length
victory over the great Red Rum.
at Kinnersley, Worcestershire.
A M BERL E IG H H O U S E
trainer to win the Randox Health Grand came in 1973 as he got
She worked alongside her husband No other horse in history jumped as many
National three times in 2018. Ginger up in the shadows of the
L’Escargot, who was trained by for each of the four Aintree victories - Grand National fences as Amberleigh
McCain and Fred Rimell are the joint winning post to deny
Carberry’s father-in-law Dan Moore for ESB (1956), Nicolaus Silver (1961), Gay House, who died aged 25 in April, 2017.
record holders, with four wins apiece. 50 years ago Red Alligator the bold front-running
American owner Raymond Guest, was Trip (1970) and Rag Trade (1976).
Aintree, Women in Racing and sponsors
took the honours in 1968.
He was the first of three
50 top-weight Crisp.
placed twice in the Grand National, Famously, the John Halewood-owned
finishing third in 1973 and runner- Mercy took over the trainer’s chaser gave Ginger McCain a record-
JLT have confirmed the Grand Women’s Grand National winners for up in 1974. He won the Cheltenham licence on Fred’s death in 1981 and equalling fourth Grand National
Summit will be held for a fourth year on jockey Brian Fletcher, who Gold Cup in both 1970 and 1971. continued to enjoy great success. success in 2004.
Ladies Day, Friday, April 13, 2018. would go on to partner
Red Rum in 1973 and 1974. 90 years ago Tipperary
Following L’Escargot’s 1975 victory, She became the first woman to Amberleigh House was also third in the
90 Tim was the only horse to
complete the course at
there would not be another Irish-trained train a Champion Hurdle winner, 2003 Grand National and won the 2001
winner of the Grand National for the thanks to Gaye Brief in 1983. Becher Chase. In total, he competed in
the first attempt in 1928,
next 24 years and remarkably, it was 11 races over the Grand National fences.
scoring at 100/1. Champion
Carberry who ended the drought as Her biggest success at the Grand
American chaser Billy
Barton, remounted after
he trained the 1999 scorer Bobbyjo. National Festival came in the Aintree PA P I L LO N
100
100 years ago With World Hurdle, which she won with both Gaye The Ted Walsh-trained Papillon,
War 1 still going on, there falling at the last, was
Carberry’s son Paul partnered Bobbyjo Brief (1983) and Celtic Chief (1988). who won the 2000 Grand National
was no Grand National at the only other finisher.
who was the subject of a major gamble under Ruby Walsh, passed away
Aintree in 1918. The third on the day of the race and started at 10/1. She retired from training in 1989, but kept in May, 2017 at the age of 26.
and final of the three her link going with the Grand National
wartime substitute contests Tommy Carberry commented after by owning a horse called Simon. Papillon, available at 33/1 on the
150 years ago The first of
took place at Gatwick and
victory went to Poethlyn, 150 two victories for The Lamb,
one of three greys to be
Bobbyjo’s success: “It is a great feeling
to have won the Grand National as a The chaser, trained by John Spearing
morning of the race, landed a massive
gamble as he was returned at 10/1.
who also triumphed jockey and then see my son do that as at Kinnersley, raced twice in the
at Aintree in 1919. successful, was in 1868.
well. I always had plenty of confidence Grand National, falling at the 25th Owned by American Betty Moran,
Named because of his
in the ride that Paul would give the in 2007 and unseating his jockey Papillon also finished fourth in 2001 and
gentle disposition, he went
horse and it was an amazing one. at the same fence in 2008. completed the course on all his 39 starts.
on to win again in 1871.
YEARS “The chances of getting a horse to
AGO the Grand National, let alone winning,
are great and so it is a wonderful
thrill. This is a lot, lot better than when
I won the race on L’Escargot.”
RA N DOX HEALTH G RAND NAT I O N AL F E S T I VAL 2 0 1 8
COM M UNI T Y
IN VO LV E M ENT
Annual visit to Alder Hey
users to experience the Randox
Health Grand National Festival. The
headsets are taken into schools as
well being used on tours of Aintree.
The annual jockey visit to Alder Hey
18 Children’s Hospital is now in its 14th year 19
and has been a stalwart of Aintree’s
community offering. Last year was
exceptional in the new Alder Hey
Hospital, with lots of jockeys spending
their Ladies Day morning visiting ill
children at the hospital. There was also
a special performance in the atrium by
Laura Wright who performed Disney
songs for the children and their families.
The Aintree Community Programme In 2018, the ACP is launching an initial
three-year programme in support of
(ACP) has been successful in winning the military veterans in our community,
in partnership with the Liverpool
Racecourse Association Showcase Award Military Veterans HQ. This work will
help dozens of veterans and their
for Best Community & CSR Programme for families, both from physical and
mental wellbeing perspectives.
three consecutive years – 2015, 2016 & 2017.
Aintree is proud to have been the
Beacon Racecourse for Racing Together,
British Racing’s Community Engagement
Aintree Racecourse launched the Wellbeing, Education & Enterprise have been a great success at Aintree, Programme, for the past three years and
programme in December, 2014 at the and Community Engagement. with lots of local children and adults activities and provides an educational “The Grand National has been in
to have worked closely with several local
Becher Chase raceday by opening experiencing horse riding round the environment for all ages and abilities. their community for nearly 180 years
schools, including Maricourt School, as
the doors for people to come and The ACP is continuously enhancing and iconic Parade Ring as well as learning and I’m sure they are very proud
part of this, whether through inviting
see the racecourse and the Grand developing long-lasting partnerships how to groom and care for horses. John Baker, Regional Director of of what the Grand National and
the schoolchildren into Aintree to inspire
National fences for free and to including work with Alder Hey Children’s Aintree Racecourse said: “Community Aintree means to Merseyside.
them around the Grand National and its
thank them for their support. Charity, Everton in the Community, In collaboration with Everton in the engagement is at the heart of
fabulous history or dozens of Aintree
Liverpool Military Veterans, Riding for the Community, the ACP host tours of everything that we do at Aintree. “It’s the race that stops the nation and
staff going to the school and talking
Since then the programme has gone Disabled Association, Racing Together, Aintree Racecourse and use the history is part of British sporting heritage,
to hundreds of children about jobs at
from strength to strength and aims to Racing to School, Liverpool John Moores of the Grand National to positively “We’re fortunate to be based in a but it’s also very much a local event
racecourses and the Grand National.
inspire children and adults alike to be University, Walton Centre Charity and support individuals suffering with mental fantastic sporting city and have for the people of Liverpool.”
the best they can be through the power Barrie Wells Trust, plus several local wellbeing concerns and illnesses. a very passionate and welcoming
In December, 2016, the Peter O’Sullevan
of the Grand National and the sport. schools and community groups. community around Aintree and For enquiries and to find more about the
Community Hub was official opened
Introduced in 2017, the virtual reality the wider Merseyside region. Aintree Community Programme, please email
by Sir A P McCoy and the Mayor of
The programme is driven by The disabled riding sessions, in headsets have been hugely popular Aintree.community@thejockeyclub.co.uk
Sefton. It is the main focal point of ACP’s
three key themes - Health and collaboration with Beechley Stables RDA, with both adults and children allowing
RAN DOX HEALTH G RAND NAT I O N AL F E S T I VAL 2 0 1 8A number of Grand National fences the National Trainers Federation, general racing environment for the
with different frames were trialled the PJA, the National Association welfare of the racehorse, with an
successfully at the Becher Chase fixture of Stable Staff, The Jockey Club important result being a substantial
in December, 2012 when two races were and the Arena Racing Company. reduction in fatality and injury.
WEL FA R E & SAF ETY
run over the Grand National course.
All the timber central frames in the plain RET RA I N I N G O F RAC EHO RS ES WO RL D H O R S E W E L FA R E
fences (fences 1, 2, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 12, Retraining of Racehorses (RoR) is a World Horse Welfare is a leading
13 and 14) on the Grand National course charity whose principal responsibility international charity that has been
“
were then replaced with the Easyfix is to facilitate the re-training of former improving the lives of horses in the UK
plastic birch unit. The three timber racehorses into fulfilling second careers, and worldwide since 1927. Practical,
frames in the open ditches (fences 3, 11
WE H AV E
and provide funding and care should influential and forward-thinking, the
Modifications to the Grand National course have been made over the years for & 15) were replaced with natural birch. former racehorses become unwanted charity supports the responsible
welfare and safety reasons, which culminated in 2013 with plastic frames being
MA DE
and vulnerable. Established in 2000, use of horses in sport and is an
introduced into most of the famous fences and the start being moved forward
the charity’s primary ongoing source independent welfare advisor to the
around 90 yards, thus bringing the horses closer to the first fence.
BEC HER’ S BRO O K
Q U I TE A
of funding is the British racing industry British Horseracing Authority and
Forming part of the racecourse’s ongoing followed by donations. Its database International Equestrian Federation.
Both measures have been very successful. Probably for the first time ever in the
F E W C H A N G ES
programme of works, Becher’s Brook, of former British-trained racehorses Uniquely, World Horse Welfare’s work
Grand National’s history, the 2013 renewal saw all 40 runners and riders navigate
the sixth and the 22nd fence jumped in now active in other equine disciplines covers the full spectrum of the horse
the first seven fences, including Becher’s Brook. There were 17 finishers in 2013, 18
in 2014, 19 in 2015, 16 in 2016 and 19 again in 2017.
OVE R TH E the Grand National, underwent further
levelling of the wider landing zone,
exceeds 10,000. RoR stages hundreds of
classes nationwide each year for former
world. In Britain the charity runs the
largest horse rescue and rehoming
Andrew Tulloch, Regional Head of Racing at Jockey Club Racecourses North West
YEARS AND correcting the settlement which occurred
following works carried out in 2011.
racehorses in an ever-increasing range of
disciplines, from showing and dressage
scheme, each year investigating and
resolving thousands of welfare problems.
W E A R E VE RY
& Aintree’s Clerk of the Course, revealed: “We have made quite a few changes over
to polo and eventing. It also provides Through its centre near Blackpool and
the years and we are very happy with the plastic frames and how the fences ride.
This 2012 work did not change the an extensive education programme for three other nationwide centres, World
“We are delighted with what happened during the last five Grand Nationals and H A P PY W IT H dimensions or the character of the fence
(the current drop, i.e. the difference in
new owners of former racehorses and
funds a number of approved centres
Horse Welfare provides horses in need
with specialist care and rehabilitation
T H E P L AS T IC
no further major changes to the course are planned but, as always, welfare is
height between the level of the ground to rehabilitate and rehome horses. before finding them loving new homes.
uppermost in our minds and we do not stand still, reviewing everything on an
on take-off and landing sides, remains The thoroughbred is an intelligent In the developing world, the charity’s
annual basis.”
F RA M E S AN D at 10 inches on the inside of the course and versatile horse and, through the international programmes alleviate the
H O W TH E
and six inches on the outside). establishment of a wide range of suffering of many thousands of working
Minor modifications take place each year and Tulloch continued: “The 2013, 2014,
competitions and classes for former horses by providing essential knowledge
2015, 2016 and 2017 Grand Nationals went well and our thanks go to trainers,
F E N C E S R IDE
racehorses in a range of disciplines, RoR for horse owning communities who
owners, jockeys, the welfare organisations with whom we consult, and many
others within equestrian disciplines that we involve.”
L A N D I N G A REAS has successfully created a demand for depend on horses for their livelihoods.
Following the 2011 Review, the landing horses who have completed their racing
area of the first fence was levelled to career. On the very rare occasions that Roly Owers, Chief Executive of World
Andrew Tulloch, Regional Head of Racing smooth out undulations existing in a former racehorse is found in need of Horse Welfare, commented: “World
the natural terrain. This process was care, RoR has an Emergency Relief Fund Horse Welfare does not accept the claim
20 extended to fences 4, 5 and 13. All works available to ensure they are looked after. that horses are unwilling participants in 21
The details of the changes made before the 2013 re- 2012. It involved a more consistent of 2015 was the first to experience this were carried out during summer of 2012. sport. Horses bred to compete will rise
newal of the Grand National are listed below. methodology across the starting teams new starting procedure. All went smoothly to the challenge, as anyone who has ever
in the application and enforcement that year and did so again in 2016. RS P CA taken part in equestrian sport knows.
G RAN D N AT I ON A L START of the Rules at the start of a race. T HE HO RS E C O M ES F I RS T The RSPCA celebrated its 190th birthday This notion that sport is bad for horses
The start was moved forward by around There was a hiccup in 2017 when The Horse Comes First is an initiative in 2014 and has been working to improve needs to be challenged – and challenged
90 yards, closer to the first fence and A specific briefing between the starting subsequently 26 jockeys were given a designed to increase awareness of the the welfare of horses since 1824 through forcefully. Yes, sport horses are well cared
away from the crowds and grandstands. team and the jockeys takes place on the one-day ban after a false start delayed the first class care and attention racehorses a combination of education, cooperation for, but that is no more than one should
The distance of the Grand National day of the Randox Health Grand National. off of the Randox Health Grand National. receive throughout and after their careers with industry partners and enforcing expect. However, the sheer amount of
was shortened officially to four miles, Additional measures were put in place in racing. British racing is among the best legislation. One hundred years ago investment that flows into the horse
three furlongs & about 110 yards in 2013, to minimise the possibility of a riderless The riders, including Derek Fox on the regulated animal activities in the world. horses comprised the majority of work, industry and the resulting research
rather than four and a half miles. horse travelling an extended distance winner One For Arthur, admitted they indeed the RSPCA was the lead animal that is conducted on horse health
before being caught prior to the start. did not follow the starter’s instructions Together with the RSPCA and World organisation to assist horses used in and welfare has done an enormous
The race distance changed again from properly. The Aintree stewards referred Horse Welfare, the British Horseracing the First World War. After this the role amount for horses everywhere.”
2016 and officially became four miles, The British Horseracing Authority 31 of the 40 jockeys who took part to the Authority (BHA) is a co-signatory of horses changed from the working
two furlongs and about 110 yards due to introduced a number amendments to BHA, with five being cleared at the May to the National Equine Welfare horse in transport and agriculture to the
changes in the measuring methodology starting procedures for Jump races, 5 hearing. A BHA statement explained Protocol and through its commitment sport and recreational equine evident T HE BR IT IS H H O R S E S O C IE T Y
used by the British Horseracing Authority. which were written into the Rules of the background: “As the runners moved to horse welfare British racing has today. This has resulted in their welfare The British Horse Society (BHS) is
The distance is four miles, two furlongs Racing and came into being on October to the start, the starter asked them to a track record to be proud of. once again becoming a priority for the UK’s largest equestrian charity.
and 74 yards to be exact, but the trip 13, 2014. The new procedures were take a turn in order for delayed runners the society and the RSPCA’s stance Established in 1947, it works to improve
raced over can alter depending on rail ratified by both the BHA Board and to join the group. Although the jockeys In a horse population estimated to be remains one of improving their welfare the lives of all horses through raising
movements to utilise the freshest ground. Rules Committee after a constructive did eventually take a turn, they did not around one million, racehorses in Britain by education, advice and, as a last resort, standards and providing the best
meeting between the BHA, Professional do so immediately when requested.” are among the healthiest and best looked the recourse to legislative enforcement quality advice and education. The BHS
The ‘no-go’ zone is defined by a line Jockeys Association (PJA), Aintree and after two per cent in the country. British of the law. This stance and working in believes education creates a better life
on the track and was extended from Cheltenham Racecourses led to a series There have been talks between the PJA racing is committed to providing the best cooperation with other equine charities, for horses – whether that’s providing
15 yards to 30 yards from the starting of proposals for the improvements. and the BHA since to try and make possible standards of veterinary care together with enforcement of new world-renowned qualifications for people
tape. The starter’s rostrum was moved sure the start is a smooth one in 2018. and since 2000 the sport has invested legislation, has seen some improvement working in the industry or advising
to a position between the starting The field must come forward at a walk over £32 million in veterinary research and the reduction of horses being equestrian enthusiasts how to give horses
tape and the ‘no-go’ zone to reduce and no faster than a jig-jog, and races and education projects, investment abandoned or kept in poor conditions. the utmost care. By offering the best
the potential for horses to get on top will not be started if the field lines up FENCE DES I GN from which all breeds of horse benefit. The society has for many years worked riding schools and instructors, the best
of the starting tape prematurely. and commences to move forward before Aintree and the British Horseracing as a critical but constructive observer places to ride and the best qualifications
the starter raises his flag or if the field Authority embarked on a three-year The Horse Comes First works closely to the racing industry, resulting in a and training, it can move closer to the
More user-friendly start tapes are used, approaches the start faster than a jig-jog research and development programme with the charity Retraining of Racehorses productive dialogue with those who goal of ensuring every horse is protected
before the tape is released and the flag looking at alternative fence designs
with increased visibility. A concerted (RoR) and the initiative is backed by regulate the sport and racecourse and well cared for. The BHS doesn’t
lowered. If a false start occurs, the field for the Grand National course in 2011
drive to redress the sometimes much leading organisations and veterinary management. This pragmatic approach just talk about the issues that matter
will regroup at the marker pole and a and this focused on utilising materials
faster approaches towards the tape other than the existing timber and surgeons in British racing, including has seen many changes in the regulation most to equestrians, it takes action.
which can occur in bigger races standing start to the satisfaction of the the BHA, the Racecourse Association, of the whip, fence placement and
protective rubber padding that made
was instituted from the autumn of starter will be effected, with a walk-in the Racehorse Owners Association, design, and improvement in the
up the central frame of a fence.
start not tried again. The Grand National
RAN DOX HEALTH G RAND NAT I O N AL F E S T I VAL 2 0 1 8You can also read
