Virtual Grand National raises 2.6 million pounds for NHS

The virtual Grand National raised 2.6 million pounds (USD 3.2 million) for Britain's National Health Service from the profit on betting on Saturday's computer-generated race donated by bookmakers.

The animated event proved a popular replacement to the real thing with the world's most famous steeplechase a casualty of racing's shutdown due to the coronavirus pandemic.

"We are overwhelmed with the public support for the Virtual Grand National and the support shown" for the NHS, said Michael Dugher, chairman of the Betting and Gaming Council.

Shown live on television an audience of almost five million, more than double the figure that tuned in to see last year's Epsom Derby, watched Potters Corner take the virtual Aintree spoils at 18-1, with hat-trick seeker and favourite Tiger Roll in fourth.

Coral spokesman David Stevens told The Racing Post: "We had no idea how popular the Virtual Grand National would be as it was a completely unique situation but throughout Saturday it became apparent that millions of people were still having their annual flutter on this famous race."