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Grand National Fatality Prompts Investigation into Horse Safety
A formal investigation is underway into the Grand National steeplechase following the tragic fatality of Celebre D’Allen. The British Horseracing Authority (BHA) and Aintree Racecourse are set to examine the circumstances surrounding the horse’s death to enhance safety measures for equine participants in future races. This inquiry aims to further improve horse welfare at the prestigious event.
Celebre D’Allen’s Death during Grand National
Details of Collapse and Veterinary Care
Celebre D’Allen collapsed during the Grand National race, reportedly due to exhaustion. Jockey Micheal Nolan halted the 13-year-old gelding after the second-to-last jump; Nolan was subsequently sanctioned for not stopping the horse earlier. While Celebre D’Allen initially received prolonged veterinary care and showed signs of improvement, his condition worsened, and his trainers confirmed his death later on Monday evening.
BHA and Aintree Launch Inquiry
Racing authorities have previously implemented measures to improve equine safety in races. The BHA conducts an annual review of the Grand National, and the death of Celebre D’Allen will be incorporated into their current investigation.
BHA Statement on Safety Reviews
According to a BHA statement: “The BHA and Aintree Racecourse will conduct a thorough analysis of the race and this incident, as is standard procedure every year and following any fatal injury in racing. This process includes a post-mortem examination of the horse.
“Reviewing each fatality enables us to expand our existing knowledge base and identify strategies to minimise all reasonably avoidable risks, thereby enhancing safety for both horses and jockeys. Past reviews informed the changes implemented for the 2024 Grand National, including the reduction in participant numbers. Notably, before Saturday’s race, there had been no fatal injuries in the preceding nine races held over the Grand National course since the 2023 event.”
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Trainers’ Heartbreak
Celebre D’Allen’s passing was confirmed by his trainers, Philip Hobbs and Johnson White. Their statement expressed deep sorrow: “We are heartbroken to announce the passing of Celebre D’Allen. He received exceptional care from the veterinary teams and was showing signs of recovery. However, his condition dramatically worsened overnight, and tragically, he could not be saved. He was an exceptional horse, and he will be deeply missed by all.”
Jockey Suspension Following Inquiry
An inquiry was conducted into jockey Nolan’s race performance. Following the stewards’ investigation, Nolan received a 10-day suspension.
Broadway Boy Incident and Race Disruption
Celebre D’Allen was one of two horses to require assistance during the Grand National. Broadway Boy, who was leading the race, fell at the 25th fence. The dramatic fall caused him to somersault forward, landing heavily, and unseating jockey Tom Bellamy.
Both horses received immediate veterinary attention on the racecourse. Subsequently, the following two races were temporarily suspended while the horses were being treated. Celebre D’Allen was able to walk into a horsebox and remained at Aintree Racecourse overnight. Broadway Boy was transported in a horse ambulance.