What is the Grand National?
The Grand National is an iconic horse race held annually at Aintree Racecourse in Liverpool, England. It is a steeplechase with a distance of 4 miles 514 yards, featuring some of the best horses and jockeys in the world. The race is usually held on the first Saturday of April, and is one of the most watched sporting events in the UK.
Grand National History
The first Grand National was held in 1839, and the event has been held every year since then with only a few exceptions. The race was suspended during World War I and World War II due to security concerns, and the 2021 edition was cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Is Grand National 2021 Cancelled?
Yes, the 2021 edition of the Grand National has been cancelled due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. On 22 March 2021, the British Horseracing Authority (BHA) announced the cancellation of the event, citing the risk of the virus and the need to protect the health of participants and spectators.
Why Was Grand National 2021 Cancelled?
The BHA took the decision to cancel the 2021 Grand National in order to protect the health of participants, spectators and the wider public. The event is a large gathering and therefore carries a high risk of the virus spreading. Additionally, the current COVID-19 restrictions in the UK mean that spectators would not be able to enjoy the race in the usual way.
What Will Happen to Grand National 2021?
The 2021 Grand National will not be rescheduled, as the BHA believes it would be too difficult to organise a race of this size during the pandemic. However, plans are being made for the 2022 edition of the event, which is expected to take place on 2 April 2022.
What Are the Consequences of Cancelling Grand National 2021?
The cancellation of the Grand National has had a significant impact on the UK horse racing industry, with an estimated £200 million in lost revenue. Additionally, many of the businesses that support the event have been affected, including hotels, restaurants, pubs and other establishments.
What Other Races Have Been Cancelled?
The Grand National is not the only race to be cancelled due to the pandemic. Other major events, such as the Cheltenham Festival, have also been cancelled or postponed. Additionally, many smaller races across the UK have been cancelled or postponed due to the pandemic.
What Measures Have Been Taken to Ensure Safety at Races?
The BHA has put in place a number of measures to ensure safety at races during the pandemic. These include social distancing, the use of face coverings, regular testing of horses and jockeys and stringent cleaning protocols.
What Are the Alternatives to Grand National 2021?
There are a number of alternatives to the Grand National for those who wish to experience the thrill of horse racing. These include virtual races, online betting and other virtual events. Additionally, some smaller races are still taking place in the UK, albeit with reduced capacity.
Conclusion
The 2021 Grand National has been cancelled due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. This has had a significant impact on the UK horse racing industry, as well as the businesses that rely on the event. However, measures are being taken to ensure safety at races and there are alternatives to the Grand National for those who wish to experience the thrill of horse racing.