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Changes to the 2024 Grand National – A progressive move but the race must still be confined to history

Tomorrow is the Greyhound Derby Final, the biggest event in the greyhound racing calendar. But this is not a day to celebrate for the dogs – it is a day, like every other day in the racing calendar, which puts their lives at risk. 

The most notable changes include:

  • A reduction in the number of horses taking part, from 40 to 34
  • The first fence will be moved closer to the start to slow down the horses as they approach
  • A reduction in the height of two fences and levelling off on landing ground
  • Ability ratings for horses entered into the race are to be increased

However, whilst the industry and public focus may be on the Grand National itself, there are no changes to the race conditions of other races held during the Grand National Meeting and at other times of the year.

Whilst any improvements to this dreadful race must be welcomed it doesn’t remove the dangers that are still evident on the Aintree racecourse. Animal Aid will still campaign to end this shocking event, in line with our persistent campaigning over two decades that has forced a number of changes to the race during that time. We reiterate our call to ban all jump racing.

Dene Stansall, Animal Aid’s Horse Racing Consultant

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