Earlier Start Time
The Grand National, one of the biggest days in racing, is back at Aintree TOMORROW but with a new start time of 4pm, over an hour earlier than usual.
Safety Concerns
Sulekha Varma, clerk of the course at Aintree, explains that safety concerns are the main reason behind the time change. The move aims to enhance welfare standards for participants and ensure optimal jumping ground.
Changes to the Race
In addition to the time change, the number of runners has been reduced from 40 to 34. The first fence has been moved closer, and alterations to the running rail have been made to improve safety measures.
How to Watch
Catch the Grand National on ITV1 and Racing TV. Live stream the race for FREE on the ITVX app/website or follow SunSport’s live blog for all the Aintree Festival action.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the UK horse racing ‘Classics?
Classics refers to the five most prestigious races in UK thoroughbred racing. These are usually considered the best contests of three-year-old horses. The 2,000 Guineas are the Epsom Derby, The Epsom Oaks and The St. Leger Stakes. This is a major achievement for any horse. Winning the Triple Crown is even more impressive.
What does ‘photofinish’ in horseracing mean?
A ‘photo finish’ occurs when two or more horses cross the finish line so closely together that it is impossible to determine the winner with the naked eye. In such instances, race officials use a finish-line camera that captures images at high speeds to review the precise moment each horse’s nose reaches the line. The photo finish helps officials determine the official finish order accurately.
What is the role of a steward in horse racing?
Stewards are responsible for ensuring that all horse racing is conducted in a fair and legal manner, according to the racing rules. Stewards are responsible for overseeing jockeys and trainers as well as other racing personnel. They also monitor races to ensure that no rules have been broken and hold inquiries about any incidents. Stewards also have the authority to impose penalties, such as fines or suspensions, in the event of rules being breached.
What is the significance and history of the jockey silks?
The jockeys’ silks are colorful, patterned clothing worn by the jockeys during races. Each set of silks is unique and registered with the horse’s owners, making it easy for spectators and officials alike to identify horses during a race. The owners often have a sentimental attachment to the design and it can include patterns, colors and emblems.
What does a racing term describing a horse as “stayer” mean?
A’stayer horse’ excels when racing over long distances. Typically, the distances exceed one mile. Stayers have to be able to run fast over long distances. Renowned Stayers compete often in long-distance racing such as Ascot Gold Cup.
How do racehorses breed and select for racing?
Usually, racehorses are bred to excel on the track. Breeders choose dams and sires with racing pedigrees to produce offspring who are fast, durable, and have a good temperament. Thoroughbreds, which are the most common breeds associated with racing in Britain, are closely tracked. Before they start their racing career, prospective racehorses are often put through a selection procedure that includes pedigree analyses, physical conformation assessment, and training performance.
Statistics
- British horse racing generates over £350 million in annual tax revenues for the UK government.
- The annual Cheltenham Festival has an economic impact of over £100 million for the local Gloucestershire economy.
- Around 14,000 thoroughbred foals are born each year in the UK with the goal of becoming top racehorses.
- There are over 8,000 active racehorse owners in the UK, ranging from royals to common citizens.
- In the UK, more than 14,000 people are employed directly in the horse racing industry.
- Approximately 6 million people attend horse racing events in the UK each year, making it the second most popular spectator sport in the country.
External Links
thejockeyclub.co.uk
racingtv.com
britishhorseracingmuseum.org.uk
tattersalls.com
britishhorseracing.com
ascot.com
How To
How to Dress for UK Horse Racing Events
The type of enclosure and racecourse you are attending will determine how to dress for a UK horse-racing event. Dress codes are strict at prestigious events such as Royal Ascot and the Cheltenham Festival, particularly in the premium areas like the Royal Enclosure of Ascot where formal daywear must be worn. For most enclosures and other events, smart-casual attire is acceptable. You should check the event’s specific dress code guidelines in advance to ensure compliance. This will also enhance your overall experience. Also, consider the weather and opt for comfortable footwear as race days can involve a fair amount of walking and standing.
