Trainer Paul Nolan has been left 'heartbroken' after the death of horse Discorama at Saturday's Grand National, the third to die at Aintree this week.
For the first time in three years, a packed crowd was allowed at the famous Liverpool racecourse for the legendary steeplechase, which this year was won by 50/1 shot Noble Yeats, ridden by Sam Waley-Cohen. It was an emotional win for the jockey, who'd already announced his retirement prior to the Grand National and dedicated his win to his dad and his brother Tom who died from cancer aged just 20.
A total of fifteen horses finished this year's Grand National, with Any Second Now in second and Delta Work in third. One of those that didn't finish was Discorama, having been pulled up by jockey Bryan Cooper.
At the end of ITV's live coverage from Aintree, it was confirmed that all horses had made it back to the stables, but then a few hours later Discorama's death was confirmed, with him being put to sleep after sustaining an 'untreatable' pelvic injury.
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Trainer Paul took to Twitter to reveal the tragic news, with him posting: "We are heartbroken to have lost Discorama today at Aintree. Bryan pulled him up due to injury. Our condolences to his owners Andrew Gemmell & Tom Friel."
In the aftermath of Discorama's death, Professor Chris Proudman, veterinary advisor to Aintree racecourse, explained: "After the race, Discorama, who had pulled up while travelling on the flat between fences, was assessed further in Aintree's veterinary treatment facility within the stables. Very sadly we determined that he had sustained an untreatable pelvic injury and it has now been necessary to put him to sleep on welfare grounds. Our thoughts are with his connections."
Discorama was the third horse to die at this year's Grand National Festival. Elle Est Belle suffered a suspected heart attack after finishing fourth in the novice hurdle, while Solwara One became the first fatality on Friday.
