RSPCA want smaller Grand National

Officials at the RSPCA would like to see the British Horseracing Authority and Aintree reduce the field size for the Crabbie's Grand National.

Various changes to the world famous race have taken places over recent years, including modification of the fences, but the RSPCA believes fewer runners than the traditional 40 would help further still to lower the welfare risk to both horse and jockey.

RSPCA equine consultant David Muir acknowledged the positive impact of the changes - but hopes his suggestion to reduce the number of runners will be considered by the relevant parties.

Muir said: "As a leading animal welfare charity we feel it's our duty to do all we can to ensure the welfare of horses involved in racing. The RSPCA has invested a great deal of resources, expertise and time over the years working with the horseracing industry to make welfare improvements to the sport. We believe these improvements not only benefit the horses but also jockeys and the sport as a whole.

"The Grand National is a testing course, by its very nature. In recent years the RSPCA has worked with the Aintree management and the British Horseracing Authority who have made a series of welcome changes including improvements to Becher's Brook, the removal of the solid fence cores producing a more forgiving structure and the removal of several drop landings which in the past have shown to increase the risk factor.

"The provision of superior and more accessible run outs has also been made, taking loose horses out of danger.

"However, we would still like to see a reduction of the field numbers remaining on the agenda due to the number of horses that do not remain in contention at the end of the race. Together with the occasional bunching issues, the number of loose horses when jockeys become unseated further increases risk factors to both horse and jockey."

In response, BHA spokesman Robin Mounsey pointed to reviews providing "no evidence" fewer runners would reduce the welfare risk.

Mounsey said: "The BHA and Aintree have adopted an evidence-based approach to change. One area which was examined carefully and not changed is the maximum field size of 40 runners in the Grand National.

"Reviews have provided no evidence to suggest that a reduced field size would reduce the risk of injury to horse or rider."

Muir added: "As in the past we ask that the BHA remind jockeys of their duty of care to the horses they ride.

"We will continue to monitor races carefully to see if any injuries or deaths could have been avoided or if any lessons can be learned to further prevent fatalities or injuries.

"We share our findings with the British Horseracing Authority and the racecourse management and where appropriate air our concerns and recommendations to these bodies."