Grand National Poll

What are your views on the Grand National

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Wagtail

Wagtail

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We have had umteen threads on the Grand National. I have a little theory, so just a little poll here which I may comment on should I get more than100 votes. :)
 
There were fewer obsticles this year but still several including the winner were near collapsing, the selfish side of me does love to watch it just as it is, however for horse welfare reasons I think they certainly need to look at making a few changes .
 
I like it, and I look forward to it each year. Not because horses and jockeys could get injured but because of how truely amazing it is to see 40 horses, at the peak of their fittness, trained to perfection galloping and jumping unique obsticals you don't see anywhere else. It is a true test for everyone, and once a year is exceptable. It is like Badminton, you get excited by the biggest bestest equine challenge. It has a history, it has intregued so many before us, it has got a story all of its own, and it should never be banned. In fact, I think the only error of yesterdays race was the fact they they bypassed 2 jumps. Never used to. Fallen horses used to be pulled to one side, the jump was still jumped on the second circuit. Sure, never nice to see fallers, but the National has claimed before, it will continue to do so in the future, that is the risk owners take, and they know it. Not to mention, it has got softer over the years too.... heaven help you 'antis' if you were around before the modifications!
Too much 'cotton wool' these days - and that applies to almost everything!
 
monkeybum13 said:
I don't know which to vote for - I love it and would like to see fewer runners, however the length and obstacles are what makes it special.
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I have to agree, it is a difficult one. It is a very British institution and a thrilling race. Reducing it would probably have quite a devastating effect on the industry. Despite this, however, I would like to see the number of runners and the length of the race reduced. Also, there should be more 'qualifications' in order to be able to run in the race to ensure that those running are really fit and capable to do so. I do fear however, that we will lose the greatness of this race in doing so. But, I have just reached the point that I have started not to care about that any more. It is the first year I have not watched the race. I realised that in previous years, I had been simply watching in hope tht they all got around. That is wrong, in my book. Sometimes, enough is enough.
 
I love it and although I don't think it needs a complete over haul I think reducing the number of runners to 30 would still make it an exciting and thrilling race but would hopefully cut back on the number of falls.
 
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