The Grand National is one of the most famous horse races in the world, and each year the competition attracts a large number of horses, jockeys and spectators. However, it is not uncommon for some of the horses to pull out of the race due to various reasons. In this article, we will be looking at which horses have pulled out of the Grand National and why.
The History of the Grand National
The Grand National is a long-distance steeplechase that has been held annually since 1839, taking place at Aintree Racecourse in Liverpool, England. It is one of the most prestigious races in horse racing, and it attracts both professional racing enthusiasts and casual spectators alike. The race is open to horses aged four and over, and it is renowned for its challenging course and unpredictable outcomes.
Why Horses Pull Out of the Grand National
There are a variety of reasons why some horses are unable to take part in the Grand National, and they range from medical issues to financial concerns. Some of the most common reasons why horses pull out of the race include:
• Injury or Illness: Horses can become injured or ill in the lead up to the race, making them unable to take part.
• Poor Form: Some horses may not be in good form, leading owners and trainers to decide to pull them out of the race.
• Financial Reasons: The cost of entering a horse in the Grand National is high, and some owners may not be able to afford to take part.
• Lack of Interest: Some owners may decide to pull their horse out of the race if they feel that it is not in their best interests.
Notable Recent Horses to Pull Out of the Grand National
Below are some of the most notable horses that have pulled out of the Grand National in recent years:
• 2017: Definitly Red was forced to pull out of the race at the last minute due to a minor injury, while The Last Samuri was withdrawn due to being below the required weight.
• 2018: Blaklion was forced to pull out due to an injury, while Total Recall was also withdrawn due to being below the required weight.
• 2019: One For Arthur had to pull out due to a leg injury, while Pleasant Company was withdrawn due to being below the required weight.
• 2020: Tiger Roll had to pull out due to an injury, while Anibale Fly was withdrawn due to being below the required weight.
The Impact of Horses Pulling Out of the Grand National
The impact of horses pulling out of the Grand National can be significant, as it can potentially affect the outcome of the race. Horses that are withdrawn due to illness or injury can often be replaced by another horse, but horses that are withdrawn due to financial reasons or lack of interest cannot be replaced. This can create an uneven playing field and can potentially lead to an unfair result.
The Aftermath of Horses Pulling Out of the Grand National
The aftermath of horses pulling out of the Grand National can be both positive and negative. On the positive side, the horse that was withdrawn may be able to recover and compete in future races, while the owners and trainers may be able to make back some of the money spent on entering the race. On the negative side, the horse may be unable to ever compete again, and the owners and trainers may have to accept a financial loss.
The Future of the Grand National
The future of the Grand National is uncertain, as the race is often affected by the horses that pull out of the race. The organisers of the Grand National must take steps to ensure that the race remains fair and competitive, and that the horses that do pull out are replaced in a timely manner.
Conclusion
The Grand National is one of the most prestigious horse races in the world, and it attracts a large number of horses, jockeys and spectators each year. However, it is not uncommon for some of the horses to pull out of the race due to various reasons, such as injury or illness, poor form, financial reasons or lack of interest. This can have a significant impact on the outcome of the race, and it can also have a negative effect on the horse, the owners and trainers. The organisers of the Grand National must take steps to ensure that the race remains fair and competitive, and that the horses that do pull out are replaced in a timely manner.