Grand National had to change to survive, says former winning jockey
The Grand National, won by Patrick Mullins on Nick Rockett last year, is a softer version to when Mick Fitzgerald won on Rough Quest in 1996 (Oli SCARFF) The Grand National is a radically different challenge than it was when Mick Fitzgerald rode Rough Quest to victory in 1996, but he told AFP you have "to evolve or you die". The National, raced over four miles and with its 30 daunting fences, is a race that transcends horse racing, attracting once-a-year punters and a large global television audience. However, there have been a series of modifications in recent years -- a reaction to animal welfare groups' concerns -- the latest in 2024.
These included shortening the run-up to the first fence and modifying several others, including one of the signature obstacles, Becher's Brook. They also reduced the maximum number of runners from 40 to 34. "If someone was to say we have to make these changes so the National can last 100 years then so be it," Fitzgerald told AFP by phone on Tuesday.
"One has to evolve or die -- to give a little so one can carry on. " Fitzgerald has bitter experience of how a fall in the National can have an impact. Having experienced the greatest moment of a hugely successful career in 1996, he suffered serious spinal injuries in the 2008 edition which led to him retiring later that year.
The 55-year-old Irishman compared the changes to anti-smoking regulations, admitting "times have changed". "It is like smoking," he said. "Back in the day one could smoke in pubs, planes and cinemas.
"If somebody said to you today 'Go ahead, smoke on the plane' you would reply 'You are kidding me'. "Times have changed, as they have with the National. "The risk has been reduced, but it was inevitable it would be, as people's attitudes have changed as to what is acceptable.