Grand National Going 2024 – The Importance of ‘Going’ Explained

Types of 'Going' and Their Impact

Here's a breakdown of the different types of 'Going' and what they mean for horses and races:

Hard

This type of ground is the firmest on the scale of ground conditions in horse racing. However, it's worth noting that "Hard" going is relatively rare in modern British horse racing.

Most racecourses will water the course to avoid such hard conditions, aiming for a safer, more forgiving surface like "Good" or "Good to Soft."

Firm

Firm ground is often encountered during summer months when the racing surface is dry. This type of ground allows for quicker race times but can be hard on a horse's joints and ligaments.

Good to Firm

This is a slightly slower surface than firm ground. Racecourse staff may add water to the track to achieve this condition, especially if no rain is forecasted.

Good

This is the most common type of ground and is considered the fairest for the majority of horses. Racecourses often aim for this condition to attract larger fields and offer a balanced challenge.

Good to Soft

Typically found in winter, this ground holds a fair amount of water but is still mostly good. It offers a bit more give underfoot, which some horses prefer.

Soft

Common in the jumps season, soft ground is more challenging for horses to run on. The ground is deeper and moister, leading to slower race times. Some horses, however, excel on soft ground.

Heavy

This type of ground is a real test of stamina. It's often very wet and hard to run on, and only a few horses relish these conditions.

Understanding these different types of 'Going' is crucial for anyone involved in horse racing, whether you're a trainer deciding where to race your horse or a bettor looking to place a well-informed wager.

'Going' and the Grand National: Aintree's Approach

When it comes to the Grand National, the importance of 'Going' takes on an added dimension.

Aintree Racecourse, the host of this iconic event, has its own set of challenges that make the ground conditions even more critical.

Aintree's Safety Measures

In recent years, Aintree has been proactive in maintaining ground conditions that prioritise the safety of horses and jockeys.

The course aims for 'Good' or 'Good to Soft' conditions, which are generally considered safer than 'Firm' ground. To achieve this, the Clerk of the Course may decide to water the track, ensuring that the ground is optimal for racing.

The British Weather Factor

However, the unpredictable British weather can upend Aintree's best-laid plans. The Grand National is run in early spring, a season known for its erratic weather.

A sudden period of rain could turn the ground 'Heavy,' making it more challenging for the course to revert to 'Good to Soft.' While watering can make the ground softer, removing excess moisture is a more complicated task. Strong winds can help dry up the course, but they are far from a reliable solution.

The Complexity of the Course

The Grand National stands apart from typical races; its marathon length and unique fence characteristics elevate the importance of ground conditions beyond that of a standard steeplechase.

The 'Going' can affect how these challenges are navigated, adding another layer of complexity to this already demanding event.

In summary, 'Going' is more than just a term to be glossed over when discussing the Grand National.

It's a crucial factor influencing the race's outcome, affecting everything from horse and jockey safety to betting odds.

Aintree Racecourse takes significant measures to control the 'Going.' Still, the British weather always has the final say, making this one of the many variables that add to the Grand National's unpredictability.

Individual Preferences: Horses and 'Going'

While 'Going' is a universal factor that affects every race, its impact can vary dramatically from one horse to another. Just as humans have preferences for different types of weather, horses have their own likes and dislikes regarding ground conditions.

Specialists vs. All-Rounders

Some horses are specialists, performing exceptionally well on specific types of ground. For example, certain horses excel on 'Heavy' ground, relishing the challenge it presents.

Others may prefer a firmer surface, finding their best speed on 'Good to Firm' or 'Firm' ground. Then there are the all-rounders, versatile horses that can adapt to various conditions.

Betting Implications

Understanding a horse's preference for 'Going' is invaluable for those looking to place bets on the Grand National. Past performance records often indicate how a horse has fared under similar conditions, providing crucial insights for making informed wagers.

Heavy Ground as a 'Great Leveller'

It's worth noting that heavy ground can act as a 'great leveller' in horse racing. The more challenging the conditions, the fewer the number of horses that are likely to complete the race.

This can make for some unexpected outcomes and should be a key consideration for anyone involved in betting or race strategy.

Research is Key

Given the importance of 'Going,' it's crucial to do your homework. If you're a punter, understanding how different horses react to various ground conditions can significantly impact which horse or you choose to back.

In summary, while 'Going' is a universal factor in horse racing, its impact can be highly individualistic.

Knowing how a horse performs on different types of ground can be the difference between a winning and a losing bet, making it a critical aspect to consider in the unpredictable world of the Grand National.