The last fence is one of the smallest on the course so a fall there is usually a clear indicator of a very tired horse. The same scenario arose last year with Michael Nolan and the ill-fated Celebre D’Allen. I get that a jockey is keen to compete the course and TOTB had a young and inexperienced rider but welfare is vital, especially in a showcase race like the National. I always prefer education over punishment .Senior jockeys and an equine expert should hammer this point home to him . In this instance though I do feel a substantive ban is also justifiable and will ensure that young Mr McCain-Mitchell will never make that mistake again.
Mr Vango is doing well but has a small chip to a neck vertebrae. He is expected to make a full recovery. However it is disappointing to hear the trainer talk of coming back next year. I believe that where a horse has sustained a significant injury in a race like the National it is not fair to put him through it again. By all means keep racing him if the vets are happy but there are plenty of other races.
