Horse racing-BHA analysing horse deaths at Grand National, condemns protesters

The British Horseracing Authority (BHA) said it would investigate the deaths of three horses at the Grand National meeting and criticized animal rights protestors who broke into Aintree on Saturday.

Hill Sixteen died at Saturday’s National after a big fall at the first fence.

Dark Raven died in the Mersey Novices’ Hurdle on Saturday, while Envoye Special died in the Foxhunters’ Chase on Thursday.

Veterinarians evaluated Recite A Prayer and Cape Gentleman on the course.

“Our thoughts are with everyone connected to the horses who suffered fatal injuries this week,” BHA CEO Julie Harrington stated.

Trainers, owners, and stable workers who have cared for these animals will be most affected by this news.

“As always, the BHA and Aintree racecourse will meticulously analyze the races to build on our data and help us understand what caused these incidents.”

After protesters entered the course, the National, Britain’s biggest athletic event, was delayed by 15 minutes.

Protesters argue the race is unfair to horses since many have died over the challenging barriers.

Merseyside Police reported 118 arrests for criminal damage and public disturbance as protesters jumped perimeter fencing and tried to tie themselves to fences before being taken away.

“We respect the right of anyone to hold views about our sport but we robustly condemn the reckless and potentially harmful actions of a handful of people in disrupting the race at a time when horses were in the parade ring,” Harrington said.

“The Grand National is and always will be an iconic sporting event and the actions of a small number of people will do nothing to diminish its huge and enduring international appeal.”