Aintree profitable horse dies after pulling up at end line as ITV difficulty replace

Gold Dancer was pulled up and dismounted by jockey Paul Townend immediately after the winning post after finishing first in the William Hill Mildmay Novices’ Chase

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Gold Dancer has sadly died after being pulled up and dismounted by jockey Paul Townend after crossing the winning line first in the second race of the day at the Aintree Grand National Festival on Friday.

The seven-year-old won the William Hill Mildmay Novices’ Chase at Aintree, leading home Regent’s Stroll. However, Gold Dancer almost fell at the final fence after an awkward jump.

Gold Dancer was swiftly attended to by vets and green screens were placed around the horse for privacy reasons as the Gigginstown House Stud-owned horse was tended to.

Two other horses, Miami Magic and Jordans Cross fell during the race but ITV confirmed both had walked back to the stables after the race.

Sadly, an update was issued that Gold Dancer was unable to be saved. Gigginstown’s Eddie O’Leary said: “He’s been put down. He broke his back.

“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.”

The Jockey Club, who own 15 racecourses in the UK and the organiser of both the Cheltenham and Aintree Festivals, work continuously to minimise the risks at its events.

Since 2000, the racing industry has invested more than £63 million in equine welfare, including veterinary science, education and research.

The racing industry also regularly consults with established welfare organisations such as World Horse Welfare, RSPCA and Blue Cross to ensure it continually meets the highest standards.

More to follow…

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