three hours ago there was a newa announcement that there have been changes made to the race at aintree due to animal welfare concerns The changes include only have 34 horses not 40 that the first obstacle will 60 yards closer to the start and there will also be a standing start Alterations are also being made to the alignment of the running railon the inside of the course which will help with the early capture of loose horses and the fence 11 is being reduced by two inches Crititism from animal rights activists has prompted these changes including complaints from animal aid and animal rising who managed the delay the race last year Ted walsh an animal trainer is very upset saying that the animal activists are winning and the jockey club is giving in and it the first step to the abolition of horse racing Well lets hope so