Mr R. C. Lyle: Aintree Fences
Becher's, the Canal fence, Valentine's, those world-famous jumps, are to be discussed by R. C. Lyle this evening, and as they will affect the result of the Grand National, which will be run next Friday, a word about the race may not be out of place.
It was first run in 1839; has been a handicap since 1842; since 1863 the distance has been four and a half miles.
Not only the stiff jumps, but large fields and the great pace at which the race is run, contribute to falls. Horses like last year's favourite, Golden Miller, who can do nothing wrong on Park courses, can often do nothing right here. A brilliant exception was the young French horse, Lutteur III , who, only five years old, won the 1909 National at a first essay of the course. Another was Poethlyn, who won the 'War National' at Gatwick in 1918, and the Grand National at Aintree the following year. But 'Liverpool' horses ÂÂi.e., those who have proved they can negotiate the fences, are most likely to stand up.
The race will always be connected with the name of Anthony, for these three brothers have been concerned in no less than five winners. Jack rode three to victory, Glenside, 1911; Ally Sloper, 1915; and Troytown, 1920. Owen trained Music Hall, 1922; and Ivor trained Kellsboro' Jack, last year's winner. A phenomenal family achievement.
Every year there is an outcry by some against the stiffness of the fences, yet there are fewer fatal accidents to horse or rider in the National than in the average hurdle race at a Park meeting. The most moderate horses can jump them if they are not interfered with. A horse called Odor started at 200 to 1 in 1910 and not only got round, but finished third. And Odor had only one eye.
R.C. Lyle and W. Hobbiss will give a running commentary on the race next Friday.
