It feels like a lifetime ago when we were last watching sport.Whether it was some football, some golf, some cricket or even some of the horse racing, it just feels so long ago because of the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.Every sport under the sun has been impacted due to the vicious virus spreading across the world, and we've already seen the likes of Euro 2020, the Olympics and Wimbledon cancelled because of it.Another sporting event that sadly had to be removed from the calendar this year is the annual Grand National. This year's event was due to be the 173rd annual running of the race, but the decision was made back in March to cancel it due to the coronavirus.Fear not, though, because we WILL have a Grand National to watch later today, but just not in a normal fashion.ITV are broadcasting a Virtual Grand National later today, with the programme scheduled to start at 5pm, and you and your mates can actually have a bet on it just like it was a normal race.What makes things even better is the fact all bookies' profits from the race will go straight to the NHS and associated charities.Bookmakers pledged in the week that all profits taken from the event will go to NHS Charities Together, the umbrella organisation that represents more than 140 NHS charities. Brilliant. Truly brilliant.So if you've missed sport and missed the cheeky flutter that comes with it, why don't you switch ITV on later today and watch the Virtual Grand National.

You can have a laugh, watch some 'sport', and even do your bit for the NHS; you may even win some money yourself.

It's surely a win-win situation?!

Speaking about the upcoming event, Coral's Simon Clare said on Friday, as per the Racing Post: "The uptake has been really good. We've seen a good number of bets across all runners, it's even been a little surprising. If this is anything like a normal Grand National day, interest should grow and grow through the day.

"Some of the national media have really taken the Virtual Grand National initiative on board and given it great publicity. It's a day generally fuelled by the media in part and the absence of sport means that people are looking for some light relief.

"This is a totally one-size-fits-all idea and the bookies aren't fighting for business with best prices – the stakes are limited and odds are set. Even if you lose, you're winning when you consider the NHS are going to benefit. There is no obligation for people to have a bet either and donations can always be made directly to the NHS."