So, the verdict is out on the 2012 Grand National at Aintree. Everything possible had been done to insure a safe race. A result no doubt welcomed by organisers, authorities, owners and trainers alike. Sadly, it does not help Synchronized nor According to Pete, the two horses that died in the race; nor does it do anything for the three horses that had to be destroyed during the Cheltenham Festival.
It is a terrible contrast when one sees how much money is involved in the “Sport of Kings” and compares it with the hardships being experienced by “ordinary” horse owners in this time of financial crisis. Having to have your horse destroyed because you cannot afford the upkeep and there is no other way out is heart rending. That is not to say that there is no emotion involved in the destruction of a valuable racehorse, but ultimately it is a business matter and that is that.