Racehorse trainer Emma Lavelle has paid tribute to Eclair Surf after the animal became the second horse to be put down following Saturday’s Grand National at Aintree.
The horse, ridden by Tom Bellamy, had been taken to Liverpool University for treatment after falling at the third fence in the showpiece event. Though he was initially stabilised by medical staff at Aintree, his condition worsened and the news that Eclair Surf had been put to sleep was confirmed by his trainer on Sunday morning.
“We are very sad to report that having sustained a traumatic head injury in yesterday's Grand National, Eclair Surf lost his fight this morning,” Lavelle said. “He was looked after at the racecourse by a team of first-class vets before being transferred to Liverpool University who treated him all night, however very sadly it was not to be. He was an incredibly special horse, loved by everyone and he will be missed terribly.”
