The final moments of 7-year-old Gold Dancer’s race at Aintree have shocked viewers after the horse collapsed shortly after finishing the Mildmay Novices’ Chase on April 10.
During the race, Gold Dancer slipped badly after the last fence, injuring his hindquarters, but was still pushed forward and went on to win by four lengths before the severity of the injury became clear.
Within seconds of crossing the finish line, the horse collapsed. Veterinary teams rushed in, and screens were put up as he was found to have suffered a severe spinal injury. He was later euthanized due to the extent of the damage.
Officials said the jockey did not notice anything wrong during the race, as the horse appeared to run normally until the final moments. A review confirmed no disciplinary action would be taken.
The incident has renewed criticism of jump racing, with animal welfare groups calling it dangerous and pointing to multiple horse deaths at the Aintree Festival in recent years.