Gold Dancer Euthanized After Tragic Injury at Mildmay Novices’ Chase

A Grade 1 Mildmay Novices’ Chase ended in tragedy on 10 April 2026.

Seven-year-old Gold Dancer won but suffered a catastrophic injury and was later euthanized.

Race summary

Gold Dancer raced prominently alongside Regent’s Stroll throughout the contest.

The pair pulled clear in the home straight. Gold Dancer took command at the second-last fence under Paul Townend.

He appeared to be cruising to victory before a shuddering error at the last fence.

The horse lost use of his hind legs on landing. He still crossed the line four and three-quarter lengths clear.

After the line he was pulled up and dismounted. Veterinary checks found a fractured spine.

Aftermath and statements

Connections confirmed the seven-year-old was euthanized due to the tragic injury.

Eddie O’Leary spoke for owner Gigginstown House Stud. He called the result a hollow victory for connections.

The horse was trained by Willie Mullins. Paul Townend was the rider on the day.

Earlier incidents and other runners

Miami Magic fell at the cross fence and brought Jordans Cross down with him.

Both horses emerged uninjured and walked back to the stables. Wendigo was kicked at the start but passed the pre-race vet check.

Wendigo completed the course and finished last of the six finishers.

Form and context

The result confirmed the form from the Jack Richards Novices’ Handicap Chase.

Gold Dancer and Regent’s Stroll had finished second and third to Meetmebythesea at Cheltenham.

Regent’s Stroll ran for Paul Nicholls with Harry Cobden up. He finished second at odds of 5-1.

Salver shared 100-30 joint-favouritism with Gold Dancer and took third place in the finish.

Publication details

Reported by Filmogaz.com. Published on 10 April 2026 and last updated at 15:15 the same day.