<P> Modern steeplechase races have an average of just over 4 equine fatalities for every 1,000 horses taking part, according to the British Horseracing Authority . However, the Grand National, a popular steeplechase held annually in England, yielded 7 fatalities out of 439 horses taking part between 2000 and 2010 . </P> <P> The Grand National is a National Hunt handicap race over a distance of 4 miles 31⁄2 furlongs and over 30 fences at Aintree Racecourse near Liverpool . The high number of equine deaths in the race has made it a target for animal rights activists . While course officials have repeatedly taken safety measures over the years, such as improving veterinary facilities and reducing the severity of fences, some have campaigned for further modifications or the abolition of the event that was inaugurated in 1839 . </P>

How many horses die in the grand national