607 / 842
557
‘’The Race that Never Was’’ Horse Racing: Aintree; Official Race-Card,
‘’The Martell Grand National, Aintree, Saturday April 3rd, 1993’’, 8vo,
52pps, illus. & adverts throughout, illus. wrappers, [Signed by All Fifty
Jockeys of the Grand National] Unusual & Scarce, possibly the only one
extant. This Race is remembered for being the first time that this world-
famous steeplechase was declared void, after 30 of the 39 runners began
and carried on racing despite a false start that was declared. Seven of
the field eventually went on to complete the course, with ‘’Esha Ness’’
ultimately crossing the finishing post first, ironically in the second-
fastest time in Grand National history. As a result of this calamity,
The Jockey Club made the decision not to re-run the race, and it has
since been called The Race that Never Was. Bookmakers were forced
to refund an estimated £75 million in bets staked. The Jockey Club
launched an inquiry which led to a number of changes in the starting
and recall procedures for future races.
Estimate €350 - €500
Large Image, More Info & Place Bid Lot 557