Tragedy struck the Cheltenham Festival on Tuesday when eight-year-old racehorse Hansard suffered a fatal injury during the Arkle Chase. The much-loved horse, trained by Gary and Josh Moore, was injured while running on the flat in the day’s second race.
Cheltenham Racecourse confirmed the heartbreaking news: “Hansard sustained a fatal injury. He was quickly dismounted and attended by expert vets, but sadly, the decision was made to put him down. Our heartfelt condolences go to his connections.”
The RSPCA expressed deep shock at Hansard’s death, revealing it was the 20th racehorse fatality in the UK this year – and it is only March.
“This is the 20th fatality linked to competitive horseracing in the UK this year alone – and it is only March,” said an RSPCA spokesperson. “Lessons must be learned about what causes these tragedies, both before and during races.”
The charity is demanding urgent action from the British Horseracing Authority to strengthen safety measures and protect horses on and off the track.
The RSPCA is pushing for immediate reforms including tougher pre-race health checks, smarter in-race decisions, and stronger safety protocols to prevent needless deaths. As racing fans reel from yet another fatal incident, the pressure mounts on the sport to improve equine welfare and safety standards.
Originally published by UKNIP.
