It was a Grand Nationwide like no different in additional methods than one, and with the historical past books now being rewritten, it’s the proper time to recap on this nice sporting event.
Even earlier than we heard the sound of the Starter’s pistol for the 173rd operating of the world’s most well-known horse race, the sensation round this yr’s Nationwide was fairly completely different. The race was again after being cancelled in 2020 resulting from COVID-19, by which a Digital Grand Nationwide, received by Potter’s Nook, took its place. Nevertheless, with restrictions nonetheless in place, the Authorities determined no followers have been allowed to attend Aintree this time round.
A Second in Historical past
Regardless of the trifecta of no betting outlets open; no roaring crowds, and no Tiger Roll – the horse that had received in 2018 and 2019 – it was good to have the Grand Nationwide again on the sporting calendar.
To supply some context, Minella Instances was a 50/1 outsider in February, however resulting from Blackmore’s heroics at Cheltenham, the horse was backed all the best way right down to as little as 9/1 on some betting websites, with the official beginning worth being 11/1. Many racing pundits felt that the chances have been far too brief and that Minella Instances shouldn’t be within the winner’s dialog.
But, Rachael Blackmore had different concepts. The historical past books have been torn up as she turned the primary feminine jockey to win the world’s most well-known steeplechase. 1977 was the yr that females have been first allowed to race within the Nationwide, with the earlier finest being Katie Walsh’s third place on Seabass in 2012. Blackmore had rewritten one other chapter in horse racing historical past.
Actually, her trigger was aided when clear favorite – Fabric Cap – pulled up, however that isn’t to take something away from this excellent achievement. Blackmore is now certainly one of leap racing’s superstars and totally deserves all of the plaudits which are coming her manner. For those who missed out on having a flutter on the Nationwide, it could be value placing a pound on her to win this yr’s SPOTY award.