After what was a chaotic first circuit of the Randox Grand National, it’s a relief to see that all those involved in mishaps will be returning to their stables sound. This comes after a positive update from Sara Bradstock, the trainer of Mr Vango.
The Ocovango gelding has developed into a smart, dour stayer having won a plethora of staying chasing contests. The 2024 Devonshire National was the first four, which began with a 60 length route. Last season then saw him win a London and Midlands National double, sandwiched in between with a Peter Marsh Chase.
He posted a career best on seasonal debut with a short-head second in the Becher Chase, with the Grand National the target thereafter. Sadly, his race was cut short at the 6th (Bechers) after making a mistake. He returned to the racecourse stables, but was later sent to Leahurst Equine Hospital for further tests.
Speaking to the Press Association on Sunday, Bradstock issued a positive statement via Racing Post: “We had a very stressful time because he got very ataxic. We brought him to Leahurst and they did some x-rays and found a small avulsion fracture. Which is when the muscle pulls the chip off the wing of a vertebra. But it’s not anywhere near the spinal cord and he should be fine.
“He’s having a CT scan as we speak to check there’s nothing more sinister, but he’s doing very well. He’s quite happy and he’s moving normally. If the CT doesn’t find anything, we’ll probably bring him home tomorrow.
“It was extraordinary because he missed the start but he was loving it. He’s so clever, they just came across him slightly so he put a short one in and just landed on the lip and didn’t get his landing gear out.”
Toby McCain Mitchell suspended, while Robbie Dunne out with broken collarbone
Top Of The Bill had initially enjoyed his spin out in front, but it became apparent he was tiring late on. He fell at the last, and his jockey was given a ten day suspension for failing to pull up. His joint trainer said “Both of ours are fine. Top Of The Bill trotted up sound and he’s all good. Beauport loved it – I just wish Sam had stayed on him.
Stellar Story fell at the 19th and rolled onto Robbie Dunne, who was noted afterwards to have been hospitalised. Dunne’s agent said: “Robbie is okay. He’s broken his collarbone, so he’s obviously a bit sore, but luckily there’s no other damage anywhere else.
“As jockeys go, that’s not too bad of an injury really. Hopefully he’ll be back in a few weeks.”
The latter sentiment is a testament to the thick skinned nature of these jockeys, and that while the Grand National may not be what it once was, it still requires a ton of luck to come out unscathed both in human and equine form.