Can’t see halving the prize money making any difference, the race will still be worth more than others like the Irish National. Why wouldn’t the top stables still run as many as possible, especially with the race no longer being a jumping test.
And to think Desert Orchid couldn’t be allowed to run in the race, Dessie would have laughed his whatsit off at these excuses for fences and Red Rum will be turning in his grave.
They’ve cocked it up big time with the race and there’s no turning back now.