The Grand National has lost yet another sponsor after three horses were shot dead at this year’s controversial event…
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The Grand National has lost yet another sponsor as the furore over injured and killed horses continues to grow.
Insurance firm Marsh has confirmed it will no longer promote or sponsor the event, joining the likes of Chi London, Ryanair, and Close Brothers Group.
The announcement comes after tens of thousands of people urged the company to cut ties with The Grand National due to animal welfare concerns; namely surrounding its rising death count.
Since 2000, 62 horses have died at the annual race – including three that were shot dead this year and four from last year.
Grand National a ‘disgrace’
Vegan charity PETA described the event as a ‘national disgrace’, adding: “Each year, 40 skittish horses compete for space as they’re forced to race through obstacles such as ditches, drops, and sharp turns.
“Many will smash face-first into the ground and break their backs and necks. Some are killed by humans after sustaining broken legs or ankles.
“Horses are forced into submission through whipping. Unbelievably, jockeys are required to carry a whip during the events.”
PETA also argued that this kind of behaviour would be perceived as ‘animal abuse if it happened off the track’.
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Since 2000, 62 horses have died at the annual race - including three that were shot dead this year and four from last year. Photo © Michael Steele via Getty Images
How YOU can help
The nonprofit is now calling on the public to send letters to companies who still sponsor the event, asking them to stop.
These include Molson Coors, EFT Systems, and Huyton Asphalt.
“I was horrified to learn that you are currently a sponsor of the Grand National,” the drafted letter reads.
“The Grand National is one of the most dangerous horse races in the UK. The course is designed to be demanding and extreme – which means it’s often deadly for the horses forced to participate.”
You can urge companies to stop sponsoring the race here
Many believe that treating a horse with respect and care means it’s ok to ride horses, but can you be vegan and ride horses?
Featured image credit: Michael Steele via Getty Images
