League Against Cruel Sports statement on the tragic death of Hill Sixteen in the Grand National
Posted 15th April 2023
Saturday, April 15, 2023
It is the third horse to have been destroyed at the 2023 three-day Grand National Festival.
Emma Judd, head of campaigns and communications at the League Against Cruel Sports, said: “The death of Hill Sixteen today at today’s Randox Grand National reflects its shocking safety record – 16 horses have now died in the race since the year 2000.
“It cannot be more apparent that it is time for change and for the introduction of tighter safety measures in the Grand National, at the Aintree racecourse and at racecourses across the UK.”
The death toll at the Aintree Festival has now reached 62 horses since the year 2000.
The death of Hill Sixteen in the Grand National this year follows the deaths of Discorama and Éclair Surf last year.
Emma Judd added: “One death is too many. Animal welfare needs to be put before gambling profits and entertainment, and steps need to be taken to end this carnage which is occurring year after year.
“A new independent regulatory body is required which has horse welfare as its number one priority. The use of the whip, which pushes horses beyond what they can safely do, should be banned.”
It follows the deaths of Envoye Special and Dark Raven during this year’s festival.
Just 17 of the 39 horses who started made it to the finishing line.
Ends
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
