The Grand National remains a major betting event in Britain, with one-third of adults expected to wager this year. However, race organizers face criticism as attempts to enhance safety have diluted the race's traditional difficulty and character, leading to concerns among purists. Notably, last year's absence of fallers and fatalities was met with mixed feelings, with some claiming it transformed the event into something less extraordinary, often referred to as the 'Plastic National.' Despite this backlash, race officials argue that evolving the race is essential for its continued appeal and safety.
Before Saturday's Grand National, a third of adults in Britain will place some sort of bet on the world's most famous steeplechase.
The more they try to ensure the thrills come without horrific spills and potential deaths, the more they upset traditionalists.
Making the National safer has stripped it of its fiendish difficulty but its magic, according to equine experts.
A friend remarked that the race has lost its character, although many now appreciate the exciting finishes of recent races.
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