Tiger Roll is favourite to virtually do the treble
TIGER ROLL won’t get the chance to win a third Grand National in a row on the grass of Aintree tomorrow.
But Gordon Elliott’s charge could still emerge victorious in the Virtual Grand National on ITV.
Coronavirus may have forced the cancellation of the big race but digital boffins are maintaining the magic of the greatest steeplechase.
And if you fancy a flutter bookies will take bets with all profits going to NHS charities.
This will be the fourth staging of the Virtual Grand National but the first to take the place of the main event.
The simulation uses algorithms and CGI animation, designed to accurately recreate the test.
The Aintree course and Grand National fences have been graphically designed to make the viewing experience more realistic and the field will be made up of the 40 runners who would have taken part in the real thing.
The simulations are produced by Inspired Entertainment and Steve Rogers, chief commercial officer for virtual sports, said: “In 2017, Cause Of Causes won the Virtual Grand National and came a close second in the real race hours later.
“The 2018 result was breathtaking as Tiger Roll won both in almost identical circumstances and the computer chose three of the top five finishers, including the Tiger, in 2019.
“My team have been working round the clock to make this year even more realistic than ever. It’s terrific TV.”
Television chiefs have bought into the idea again with the simulations helping to fill the void after the cancellation of the real Grand National.
The Virtual Grand National will broadcasted live on ITV at 5.15pm and in tomorrow’s Daily Record there will be a sweepstake kit to add to your enjoyment of the virtual race.