The Long Mile put down after Grand National 2021

The Long Mile was sadly put down after the 2021 Grand National at Aintree.

Trained by Philip Dempsey and ridden by Luke Dempsey in the iconic race this afternoon, which was won by Minella Times and Rachael Blackmore, who became the first female winner in history.

The seven-year-old had won four of its last eight races heading into Aintree.

The Long Mile, who was one of 40 Grand National runners in total, was euthanised after suffering an injury while running on the flat between fences.

It is now the second equine fatality from 316 runners in total over eight editions of the race since new safety measures were introduce.

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Elsewhere, Bryony Frost was taken to hospital after being unseated by Yala Enki.

While Harry Cobden was earlier stood down after a heavy fall while riding Lucky One in the Grade 1 Mersey Novice’s Hurdle.

Paul Nicholls’ assistant trainer Harry Derham said: “Harry Cobden has gone to hospital for scans on his head and his neck. He was conscious but he’s very, very sore.”

Reflecting on her win at Aintree, Blackmore said: “I’m so lucky to be riding these horses for Henry de Bromhead. He trained a one-two there, which is incredible. That can’t be forgotten in the whole scheme of things.

“It’s great to win it in these colours, too. It’s always a privilege to ride for JP McManus and to win it for him is unbelievable. They’ve had a tough year so hopefully this can make things a little easier.

“This is a massive deal for me personally, not the fact I’m a female. The thing that hit me when I crossed the line was that I’d won the National, not that I’m the first female to win the National. I’m just delighted.”

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