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Level 1 – Beginner
Steeplechasing – a British tradition
Steeplechases are traditional horse races. They are held all over Britain during the winter and spring months. The most famous steeplechase of all is the Grand National, held at Aintree near Liverpool. Over forty horses and their jockeys have to jump 30 fences and run more than four miles to complete the race. It is a dangerous race and there are sometimes accidents. In 1999, three horses died in the race.
But Britain is also a country of animal lovers, and animal-rights groups protest every year against the race. They say it is cruel and they want the government to ban it. But the Grand National is a very old race and extremely popular. The first one took place in 1839. Millions of people watch it on TV. It also brings in a lot of money for the horse-racing industry.
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C2 Mastery
