Grand National Runner Hospitalised After Aintree Race
A Grand National horse has been hospitalised the day after the prestigious Aintree race, with health updates provided for two other runners. Mr Vango, one of the 34 starters in the Grand National, remains under care at Leahurst Equine Hospital on Sunday following the event.
Injury Details and Recovery Hopes
Trainer Sara Bradstock confirmed that Mr Vango sustained a small avulsion fracture in his neck during the race, though it is not near the vertebrae. She expressed optimism about his recovery, stating, "We have to thank God and hopefully with a bit of a following wind he will make a full recovery." The horse departed the race at the sixth fence and was taken to the hospital on Saturday evening.
Bradstock added that Mr Vango is being monitored carefully, with a CT scan planned before he can return home. "It could take a while, but hopefully he will be OK. If the CT shows we haven't missed anything, he could be home by the middle of the week," she said. The horse is accompanied by his Shetland pony, and both are reported to be moving around normally.
Other Horses Assessed Post-Race
Two other horses from the Grand National field underwent veterinary assessments. Top of the Bill has returned home and is in good condition, according to trainer Willy Twiston-Davies, who noted, "Top Of The Bill is home and has trotted up sound this morning and his heart rate is back to normal, so all is fine. He's absolutely A1."
Additionally, Willie Mullins' Quai De Bourbon was assessed and has also returned home overnight post-race. The Grand National took place at 4pm on Saturday, April 11, and was broadcast on ITV.
Long-Term Outlook for Mr Vango
Bradstock mentioned that there is a chance Mr Vango could return to racing next season, but cautioned about a chip off the wing of his vertebrae that needs to land correctly. "He's happy, he's moving his neck and the vets are quite happy with him at the moment. The CT will tell us if there is anything more sinister we haven't found. But as things stand he could be back next year," she explained.
She assured that the horse will be well cared for regardless, noting, "He will be well looked after whatever happens and at worst he can go and live with his friend Coneygree. They would be some posse as they both think they are the king." The incident highlights the ongoing veterinary care and safety measures in horse racing events like the Grand National.
