Backing for decision to stop Grand National

GRAND National-winning trainer Ted Walsh is among those who are backing the decision to cancel this year’s race because of the coronavirus outbreak.

The biggest betting event on the racing calendar, the National was officially called off on Monday evening following increased measures put in place by the UK Government in an attempt to tackle the rapid spread of Covid-19.

Now, all racing in Britain has been cancelled until the end of April.

Walsh, who teamed up with his son Ruby to claim Grand National glory with Papillon in 2000 and was due to field second-favourite Any Second Now this year, admits losing the great race for the first time since the Second World War is a huge blow for the sport.

However, the 69-year-old is able to see the bigger picture.

Walsh said: “Racing is racing, and trying to keep the human race safe is far more important.

“It’s disappointing, but there are a lot more important things in this world than the National.

“Racing will survive. When it comes down to it, the welfare of mankind is a hell of a lot more important than racing.”

Lucinda Russell’s One For Arthur became only the second Scottish-trained winner of the Grand National when striking gold in 2017 - and was due to attempt to regain his crown on Merseyside next month.

“I think everyone is feeling a bit flat, and more than anything I just find it really sad,” said Russell. “We have to look at the bigger picture - and when you see what is going on around the country you can totally understand why they’ve come to this decision - but I suppose the first emotion you feel is a selfish one, and it’s just such a shame the National won’t be going ahead.”