Gold Dancer has tragically lost his life after suffering a catastrophic injury while winning the William Hill Mildmay Novices’ Chase at Aintree. The seven year old had produced an almost perfect round and was cruising towards a dominant win before faltering at the last fence.
Despite the setback, the Willie Mullins-trained runner still managed to claim victory by nearly five lengths, but harrowing scenes unfolded at Aintree afterwards. The horse limped past the winning post before jockey Paul Townend swiftly dismounted. Veterinary teams immediately attended as barriers were put in place, before the heartbreaking announcement was made.
Eddie O’Leary, racing manager for the Gigginstown stable, said: “He’s been put down. He broke his back,” adding “It’s terribly sad for the horse. What could Paul Townend do? He felt fine, it was just when he pulled up that something was wrong.”
Earlier in the race, Miami Magic and Jordans Cross both suffered falls, although ITV confirmed that both horses were able to walk back to the stables afterwards.
Aintree Racecourse issued a statement addressing the tragic incident, saying: “The winner of our second race of the day, Gold Dancer, was pulled up after the line and dismounted,” reports the Mirror, reports the Irish Mirror.
“He was immediately attended to by our expert veterinary team but sadly he could not be saved. Our heartfelt condolences are with his connections.” ITV’s Ed Chamberlin confirmed: “The winner was immediately attended by veterinary team but sadly could not be saved.” The Jockey Club, which operates 15 racecourses nationwide and runs both the Cheltenham and Aintree Festivals, is continuing its work to minimise dangers in the sport.
Emma Slawinski, chief executive at the League Against Cruel Sports, said: “Year after year we see horses dying at Aintree for people’s entertainment and a cheap bet. Sadly, Gold Dancer is the latest victim of this heartless spectacle which flies in the face of animal welfare.”
Gold Dancer had finished runner-up in the Jack Richards Novices’ Limited Handicap Chase at the Cheltenham Festival in March. The horse had previously won at Tipperary and Galway in Ireland while trained by Mullins, after beginning his racing journey in France.
Regent’s Stroll finished second in the 2:20 at Aintree, with Salver claiming third position.
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