Grand National’s Start in Doubt : Horse racing: Prestigious English steeplechase could be postponed because of rain or disrupted by animal rights activists.

Last year, the Grand National was declared void because of two false starts. This time, it could be washed out by rain or disrupted by animal rights protesters.

The prestigious steeplechase was in danger of being postponed today because several days’ heavy rain has made the Aintree course dangerously soft.

“A statement will be made (today),” course clerk Charles Barnett said Friday night, amid speculation that the race could be called off or postponed until Monday.

Barnett spoke as pools of water lay on the course and rain continued to fall. The forecast called for more showers overnight, with the possibility of hail and sleet.

Earlier, the wooden floor of a temporary bar, filled with spectators sheltering from the rain, collapsed under their weight. No injuries were reported.

If the race is called off because of weather for the first time in its 155-year history, bookmakers will have to repay some $112.5 million in wagers for the second year in a row.

“If the race was to be canceled, it would be a veritable disaster, not just for the firm but the industry as a whole,” William Hill spokesman David Hood said.

“For the second year running to lose our showpiece race, admittedly this year to an act of God, would be an administrative nightmare.”

Aintree officials also will be on guard in case animal rights activists try to disrupt the race.

“As a result of information received, we have been notified that there may be plans to stage a demonstration using aircraft, parachutists, hang-gliders, or even microlight aircraft,” police inspector Ray Simpson said. “We have made contingency plans.

“We are confident that our operation will cover most eventualities. However, if people are prepared to use such irrational means, there is little we could do to stop them.”