Ringing Ceders

The grand national has always had its ups and downs, but in 1883 it fell to an altogether sinister low. Zoedone, second favourite (and previous year winner)  was injected with a poison, supposedly before leaving the paddock. After galloping through the first circuit, she eventually gave up on the second circuit when well adrift. No one was found to be guilty of the attack at the grand national aintree race course, however, it demonstrates the competitive nature of the race, and its effects on everyone involved. Horses are now screened for drugs, and are always kept away from prying eyes days before the race begins.