Synchronised’s tragic death in the Grade 3 John Smith's Grand National Chase – a sorry sight
Synchronised, trained by for Jonjo O'Neill for owner, John P. McManus met a tragic fate in the Grade 3 John Smith's Grand National Chase, which took place at Aintree on 14th April, 2012.
He was one of the two runners, who had to be euthanised after a fatal fall. He unseated his rider A.P. McCoy and carried on regardless, but stopped soon after.
After inspection, it was discovered that the nine-year-old gelding had fractured his hind-leg and had to be put down.
The son of Sadler’s Wells, out of mare Mayasta, had a magnificent career as he triumphed in the Grade 1 Betfred Cheltenham Gold Cup Chase at Cheltenham on 16th March, 2012, where he was mounted by A. P. McCoy.
He ran a terrific race as he defeated The Giant Bolster by 2 ¼ lengths. According To Pete fell soon after Synchronised, and had to be put down as well.
Tim Morris, director of the British Horseracing Authority told the press that:
"We are very sad about the fatal injuries suffered by Synchronised and According To Pete in the Grand National.
"In both cases the horse incurred a fracture to the leg and the humane option was to put the injured horses down.”
Julian Thick, manager at Aintree expressed his sympathy for the horses and their connections, as he stated that:
“We are desperately sad at these two accidents and our sympathies are with the connections of both horses. When a horse gets hurt, everyone is deeply upset.”
He further stated that safety is the first priority in a high-event like this, and it is everyone’s responsibility to make an effort to ensure all those who are participating, are safe. He added that after the race that all aspects of this race will
be inspected to ensure further safety.
David Muir, equine consultant of the RSPCA told the media that the society thinks we have had tragedies in the Grand National and that the RSPCA has a lot of work to do.
He said that the Grand National will not be banned, but those aspects causing the problems will be observed.
The concern from the people comes from the fact that this is the second year in which the event is marred by fatalities.
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