CHARITY CALLS FOR TIGHTER SAFETY MEASURES AFTER THE DEATH OF ENVOYE SPECIAL ON THE FIRST DAY OF THE GRAND NATIONAL FESTIVAL
Posted 13th April 2023
The comments come after Envoye Special – the sixtieth victim at the Aintree Festival in just 23 years – died after falling in the fifth race.
Emma Judd, head of campaigns and communications at the League Against Cruel Sports, said: “The tragic death of Envoye Special at the Randox Grand National Festival today shows how the lives of horses are being sacrificed simply for entertainment and gambling.
“It’s time for change and for a new independent regulatory body with horse welfare as its number one priority to be introduced, as well as a ban on whip use during all races.”
The death toll at the Aintree Festival has now reached 60 horses, including 15 in the Grand National since the year 2000.
Four horses died at last year’s Aintree Festival, including two in the Grand National.
Emma added: “One death is a death too many, but we’ve now seen scores of horses dying at the Aintree Festival since the turn of the century.
“The only answer can be tighter safety measures at racecourses in the UK, and proper scrutiny of horse welfare.”
You can join our call to end horse racing deaths here.
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Notes to editors
For more information or interview requests please contact the League Against Cruel Sports Press Office on 07496 496454 (24hrs) or email pressoffice@league.org.uk