Redknapp's horse a fan favorite
Harry Redknapp's horse, Shakem Up'Arry, has become the most popular choice for Grand National glory, with bookies offering money back if the horse doesn't make the final 34-runner field on April 13. Since the offer began on March 19, punters have been backing the Cheltenham Festival hero in large numbers.
Shakem Up'Arry's rise
Trained by Ben Pauling, Shakem Up'Arry impressed with a victory in the Plate Handicap Chase at the Cheltenham Festival, beating the highly fancied Crebilly. Redknapp's dream of having a runner in the National might come true as punters have pushed the odds for Shakem Up'Arry to 33-1 from 66-1, making him the most supported horse since the non-runner money back offer.
Potential obstacles ahead
Despite the support, there might be hurdles for Shakem Up'Arry. Pauling hinted at a different race plan for the horse at Aintree, and the final decision is still pending. With Shakem Up'Arry currently 44th on the list of National runners, ten horses need to drop out for him to secure a spot in the race.
Competition heats up
Another contender garnering significant attention is Gary Moore's Nassalam, the Welsh Grand National winner. Punters have backed Nassalam heavily, especially with the expected soft ground at Aintree. The competition is fierce, with both Shakem Up'Arry and Nassalam among the top favorites for the race.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the role of a steward in horse racing?
Stewards have a crucial role to play in ensuring horse racing events are run fairly and according to racing rules. They have to supervise the conduct by jockeys or trainers along with other race personnel. The Stewards are also empowered to impose penalties for any rule violation, including fines or suspensions.
There are different types of races for horses in the UK.
Yes, there are various types of horse races in the UK, falling primarily into the categories of Flat racing and National Hunt (or jump) racing. Flat racing, which doesn’t involve obstacles, takes place on level tracks, ranging in length from 5 furlongs all the way up to over 2miles. National Hunt racing focuses on both the horse’s jumping and speed. Races like steeplechases and hurdles feature obstacles. There are variations within these two broad categories such as handicaps and maidens races. Each has its own entry criteria and rules.
What does the phrase ‘photo finish’ in horse racing mean?
The ‘photo finish,’ is when two or multiple horses cross the finishing line so closely together that the winner cannot be determined with the naked eye. In such cases, race officials utilize a finish-line cam that takes images at high speeds in order to examine the exact moment when each horse’s face reaches line. The photo finish image helps officials to determine the official order of finish accurately.
What is the handicap system in UK horseracing and how does it work?
In UK horse racing, the handicap system is designed to give every horse an equal chance of winning a race. Essentially, horses are assigned different weights to carry during the race based on their past performances. To level the playing fields, better horses are given heavier weights. The British Horseracing Authority, which is responsible in the UK for the handicapping system, regularly updates the ratings following the results.
What does ‘Going’mean in horse racing?
The surface of a track is described as “going” on the morning of a racing event. It can have a significant impact on the performance of horses and the outcome. The ‘Going” can vary from heavy, which indicates a wet, very soft track, to firm, which indicates a hard, dry surface. There are several gradations in between, such as soft, good to soft, good, good to firm, and hard. Trainers and jockeys should consider the “Going” when choosing racing equipment and strategy, including the type of horseshoes to use for better grip.
What’s the meaning of jockeys’ silks?
The jockeys’ silks consist of colorful and patterned clothes worn by the jockeys in a race. Each set is unique and registered to the horse’s owner, allowing spectators and officials to identify the horses during the race easily. The owners often have a sentimental attachment to the design and it can include patterns, colors and emblems.
Statistics
- Around 14,000 thoroughbred foals are born each year in the UK with the goal of becoming top racehorses.
- The annual Cheltenham Festival has an economic impact of over £100 million for the local Gloucestershire economy.
- British racing oversees around 1,500 fixtures annually across its 59 racecourses.
- Approximately 6 million people attend horse racing events in the UK each year, making it the second most popular spectator sport in the country.
- In the UK, more than 14,000 people are employed directly in the horse racing industry.
- British horse racing generates over £350 million in annual tax revenues for the UK government.
External Links
thejockeyclub.co.uk
thejockeyclub.co.uk
ascot.com
thejockeyclub.co.uk
timeform.com
thejockeyclub.co.uk
How To
How to Select the Best Horse Racing Festivals in the UK
The right horse racing festival for you in the UK will depend on what interests you, such as the thrill of jumping or the elegance of flat racing. Royal Ascot is the place to go for pomp and pageantry. It has royal connections, and a strict dress code. The Cheltenham Festival is a great place to go if you enjoy jump racing. It offers both a high-stakes race and a festive atmosphere. Investigate the race types, history, and entertainment options. Consider the location and accessibility, as well as accommodation options to ensure your race day experience is as enjoyable and convenient as possible.
