Celebre d’Allen, who collapsed after running in the Grand National at Aintree on Saturday, has died after his condition deteriorated overnight.
Trained in partnership by Philip Hobbs and Johnson White, the 13-year-old was a 125-1 shot under Micheál Nolan and was pulled up after the final fence before then collapsing on the racecourse.
After receiving treatment on course, he walked into the horse ambulance and was taken to the racecourse stables for further assessment. Nolan was banned for 10 days for continuing to ride after jumping the second-last fence when his chance had clearly gone.
Joint-trainer White said the veteran was “very much going the right way” on Sunday following an overnight stay at Aintree and he was later moved to a nearby livery yard to continue his recovery.
However, speaking on Tuesday morning, White told the PA news agency: “He had the best possible care, but he just took a downturn overnight and very sadly he’s passed away. It’s gutting for everyone here [at the yard], it’s very quiet here this morning as you can imagine.”
In a statement on X the yard added: “We’re heartbroken to share that Celebre d’Allen has passed away. He received the very best treatment by the veterinary teams and was improving. However, he deteriorated significantly last night and could not be saved. He was a wonderful horse and we will all miss him greatly.”
A statement issued by Aintree Racecourse read: “Celebre d’Allen was a much-loved member of Philip and Johnson’s team and all of us at Aintree are deeply saddened by today’s news.
“Those who look after British racing’s equine athletes every day have a unique bond with their horses and provide the very best care imaginable. Our thoughts are with everyone connected with Celebre d’Allen.”
The British Horseracing Authority added: “All of us at the BHA are saddened to learn of the death of Celebre d’Allen following Saturday’s Randox Grand National. It has been clear to see since Saturday afternoon just how much the horse meant to his connections and we send our condolences to them today.”
