Gold Dancer put down after winning at Aintree
Gold Dancer Put Down After Winning at Aintree
Gold Dancer, the 10-3 favorite for the Mildmay Novices’ Chase, was euthanized after sustaining a broken back during the race on day two of the Grand National Meeting at Aintree. The horse led the field and crossed the finish line with jockey Paul Townend in the saddle, securing a four-length victory. However, shortly after the race, Gold Dancer was found to be unable to stand, prompting immediate veterinary attention. The seven-year-old was eventually put down, leaving its owners and trainers in deep sorrow.
“He’s been put down. He broke his back. It’s terribly sad for the horse,” stated Gigginstown, the owners. “What could Paul Townend do? He felt fine, it was just when he pulled up that something was wrong.”
Emma Slawinski, chief executive of the League Against Cruel Sports, condemned the incident, stating: “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.” She urged the public and businesses to boycott the Aintree Festival, avoid betting on the races, and stop supporting ITV’s coverage and advertising that overlooks the cruelty involved.
Slawinski also criticized the British Horseracing Authority and Jockey Club, claiming they prioritize gambling profits over the well-being of the animals. This follows the deaths of two horses, Willy De Houelle and Celebre D’Allen, at last year’s Aintree Festival. The incident has reignited debates about the safety of racehorses and the ethics of the sport.
Feature Race Highlights
On day two, Harry Skelton secured a win in the Melling Chase, riding Grey Dawning to victory for his older brother Dan Skelton. The 5-1 underdog claimed the race, adding to the day’s excitement. Skelton noted that aggressive riding “definitely helped” Grey Dawning overcome second-place finisher Solness by a narrow margin.
“This win will mean an awful lot to his owner, Robert Kirkland, because his wife very sadly passed away,” Skelton said. “I’ll dedicate this race to her. She was a tremendous lady and Robert has been an unreliable supporter of Dan and I since we started out. It’s lovely to repay him with a good winner. Hopefully this will just lift his spirits a little bit and help him through a tough period of his life.”
Earlier in the season, Heart Wood had been the 6-5 favorite in the Ryanair Chase at Cheltenham Festival but finished third at Aintree. With last year’s winner Jonbon absent, the competition was open, and Skelton’s comments highlighted the emotional significance of the race for Kirkland.
Grand National Pinstickers’ Guide
Can statistical analysis aid in predicting the Grand National winner? Aintree’s 2026 race will feature a list of runners, weights, and jockeys. Latest horse racing results continue to draw attention, with the outcome of the Mildmay Novices’ Chase serving as a poignant reminder of the risks faced by the sport’s equine athletes.