The Grand National is a steeplechase event held annually at Aintree Racecourse in England. This horse race is considered one of the most prestigious and most difficult in the world. It is a National Hunt race open to horses aged five or older and is held over a distance of 4 miles 514 yards (6.907km). The course is made up of 30 fences and two ditches, and is one of the longest and most challenging courses in the world.
Why are the Grand National Fences So High?
The fences used in the Grand National are designed to challenge the horses and riders. They are much higher than the fences used in other races, as they test the horse’s agility, courage, and balance. The fences are constructed from spruce, and are topped with a plastic brush. The height of the fences can range from 4 feet 6 inches (1.4 meters) to 5 feet 2 inches (1.6 meters).
History of the Grand National
The first Grand National was held in 1839, and was organized by Captain Martin Becher, who famously fell from his horse at the first fence, known as the “Becher’s Brook”. Since then, the event has become an annual tradition and is watched by millions of people around the world. Over the years, the course and fences have been tweaked to make it even more challenging and thrilling.
Types of Grand National Fences
The Grand National fences are divided into four categories: hurdles, open ditches, water jumps, and the famous Becher’s Brook.
Hurdles
Hurdles are the most common of the fences, and are designed to test the horse’s agility, balance, and jumping ability. They are usually around 4 feet 6 inches (1.4 meters) high and are constructed from spruce.
Open Ditches
Open ditches are 5 feet (1.5 meters) wide and up to 4 feet 6 inches (1.4 meters) deep. They are designed to test the horse’s courage and jumping ability.
Water Jumps
Water jumps are 5 feet (1.5 meters) wide and up to 4 feet 6 inches (1.4 meters) deep. They are designed to test the horse’s courage and jumping ability, as well as their swimming skills.
Becher’s Brook
Becher’s Brook is the most famous and feared of the Grand National fences. It is 5 feet 6 inches (1.7 meters) high and is designed to test the horse’s agility, balance, and jumping ability.
Are Grand National Fences Safe?
The Grand National fences have been designed with safety in mind. The fences are made from spruce and are topped with a plastic brush, which helps to soften the impact of any falls. The course is also inspected by the British Horse Racing Authority (BHA) to ensure that the fences are safe.
Do Horses Fall at the Grand National?
While falls are an unfortunate part of horse racing, the Grand National fences are designed to minimize the risk of injury. The plastic brush helps to cushion any falls and the course is regularly inspected to ensure that it is safe for the horses.
How Has the Grand National Changed?
Since its inception, the Grand National has seen various changes to the course and the fences. In recent years, the fences have been made even safer, with the addition of plastic brush and safety rails. The height of the fences has also been reduced in some cases, to help reduce the risk of injury.
Conclusion
The Grand National fences are some of the highest and most challenging in the world. They are designed to test the horse’s agility, balance, and jumping ability, as well as their courage. The fences are made from spruce and are topped with a plastic brush, which helps to cushion any falls. The course is regularly inspected to ensure that it is safe for the horses. This makes the Grand National a thrilling and exciting event, watched by millions of people around the world.