Trainer calls for runner limits to protect Grand National

Trainer Richard Newland is calling for changes to protect the Grand National's integrity. He believes that the dominance of a few major trainers is harming the sport. Newland says limits should be placed on how many horses each trainer can enter in the race. The Grand National has faced criticism ahead of the event next month at Aintree. Concerns include smaller fences and shorter distances than in the past. Many feel that this has changed the event's original spirit. Notable Irish trainers like Willie Mullins and Gordon Elliott have dominated recent races. In fact, six of the first seven finishers last year were from these top stables. Newland, who trained Pineau De Re to victory in 2014, feels strongly about this issue. He argues that spreading horses among more trainers would benefit the sport and its future. He points out that Julie Harrington, the former head of the British Horseracing Authority, had called for major changes last year. Newland questions what has changed since then, noting that British trainers performed worse at this year's Cheltenham Festival. Ireland had a remarkable showing at the Cheltenham Festival, winning 20 out of 28 races, with Mullins leading the pack. However, British trainers will still have a chance in the upcoming Grand National. Out of 34 confirmed runners, 18 are from Britain, including the second-favorite, Iroko, while the favorite will be Intense Raffles from Ireland.