As long as Monbeg Genius remains on course for the Aintree race, the sport can expect to be fielding awkward questions
The Grand National at Aintree in early April has been seen as “The People’s Race” for much of its 185-year history, and the fact that it is a handicap with – until this year, at least – 40 or more runners has also ensured that a broader sweep of owners have seen their colours go to post for the world’s most famous steeplechase than would be case in a level-weights event like the Cheltenham Gold Cup.
That, in turn, has meant that a steady trickle of “celebrity” owners from other walks of life, sport and entertainment have had National runners, and winners, down the years.