Gold Dancer, a seven-year-old gelding trained by Willie Mullins and owned by Gigginstown House Stud, was euthanised after sustaining a catastrophic spinal injury during his victory in the Mildmay Novices’ Chase at Aintree. Despite crossing the finish line ahead of his rivals, the horse suffered a fatal injury after an awkward landing at the final fence, prompting immediate veterinary attention but ultimately leading to his death. The tragedy has deeply saddened the racing community, with owner Eddie O’Leary describing the win as “hollow” and highlighting the horse’s undeserved fate.

In response, animal rights group PETA condemned the incident, calling for the abolition of the Grand National steeplechase and criticizing the broader racing industry for the high number of horse fatalities and poor post-racing welfare. PETA highlighted that Gold Dancer’s death adds to the 68 horses killed at the Aintree festival since 2000 and claimed that around 200 horses die annually across British racecourses due to injuries and cardiac events. The group also raised concerns about the uncertain futures of retired racehorses, urging for greater protection and respect for these animals. The British Horseracing Authority has not yet responded to these calls.