Importance Score: 55 / 100 🔵
Grand National jockey Micheal Nolan has issued a statement following the death of Celebre D’Allen. The horse racing community is in mourning after the recent incident. Nolan received a 10-day ban and faced considerable criticism after continuing to ride the 13-year-old gelding over the final jump, despite the horse appearing to be exhausted.
Jockey Micheal Nolan Speaks Out After Celebre D’Allen Tragedy
Celebre D’Allen, a 125/1 outsider from the stables of Philip Hobbs and Johnson White, showed signs of weakening in the latter stages of the prestigious race. The gelding collapsed after the final fence and required immediate veterinary assistance on the course.
Despite showing initial signs of recovery on Sunday, Celebre D’Allen succumbed to his condition on Monday night. The news of his death triggered widespread sorrow and condemnation.
Speaking to the Racing Post, Nolan addressed the accusations: ‘It’s been suggested that I have no concern for the welfare of horses. This is the narrative being presented by some media outlets, but the reality is quite the opposite. Horses are my passion; I adore them and their well-being is paramount to me. I was utterly devastated by Celebre D’Allen’s death, more than anyone can comprehend.’
‘It is always heartbreaking when any horse suffers, but it is especially poignant when it involves a horse as gentle and beloved as he was.’
‘Approaching the second-to-last fence, I genuinely believed we could win the Grand National. However, within moments of clearing the final fence, I realised something was seriously wrong.’
‘The transition was incredibly rapid – from anticipating victory as we approached the finish line, to dismounting and desperately trying to aid him. This was followed by receiving a suspension and then becoming the target of abusive comments on social media platforms.’
‘I want to emphasise to everyone that I am deeply saddened by what transpired. If I had any inkling that urging him over the last fence would jeopardise his life or cause serious harm, I would never have done so.’
‘Other competitors overtook us sooner than anticipated after the second-last fence. I eased back to allow him to canter and evaluate if he possessed sufficient energy and momentum to safely jump the last obstacle.’
‘My priority was to prevent a fall, and he cleared the jump cleanly. It was immediately after landing, as I attempted to urge him forward, that it became clear he had nothing left to give.’