Grand National double tragedy as Eclair Surf and Discorama die at Aintree

Leading National Hunt trainer, Emma Lavelle has announced that her progressive chaser Éclair Surf has lost his life following a serious injury during Saturday’s Grand National.

The eight-year-old took a heavy fall at the third fence and was initially treated at the racecourse before being transferred across to Liverpool University’s equine hospital.

In an update on Twitter, the trainer said: “We are very sad to report that having sustained a traumatic head injury in yesterday’s Grand National, Eclair Surf lost his fight this morning.

“He was looked after at the racecourse by a team of first class vets before being transferred to Liverpool University, who treated him all night, however very sadly it was not to be.

“He was an incredibly special horse, loved by everyone and he will be missed terribly.”

A winner of four of his 13 starts, he had only earned into the race earlier in the week on account of withdrawals.

The sad news followed last night’s confirmation from Paul Nolan that Discorama could not be saved after pulling up injured mid-race.

Professor Chris Proudman, veterinary advisor to Aintree racecourse, explained: "After the race, Discorama, who had pulled up while travelling on the flat between fences, was assessed further in Aintree's veterinary treatment facility within the stables. Very sadly we determined that he had sustained an untreatable pelvic injury and it has now been necessary to put him to sleep on welfare grounds. Our thoughts are with his connections."