Jockey Robbie Dunne’s Grand National ride took a dramatic turn after a nasty fall from 33-1 shot Stellar Story. During the Grand National, Dunne parted company with his horse at the 19th fence, which left him with a broken collarbone. Stellar Story rolled over Dunne upon landing, necessitating immediate medical attention. He was taken to Fazakerley Hospital for further scans but was able to go home the same evening. His recovery is expected to sideline him for about a month, but Dunne is eager to bounce back and is already planning his comeback.
Dunne’s agent, Neil Popham, shared updates, stating, “Robbie is a bit stiff and sore, and it’s a shame as the race was going well.” Despite the incident, the race triumphantly crowned Willie Mullins’ I Am Maximus as the winner, becoming the first to carry top weight to victory since Red Rum.
The race wasn’t easy, with 14 riders falling or getting unseated, whittling down the field to 16 finishers. Runner-ups included JP McManus’s Iroko and Johnnywho. Meanwhile, Stellar Story’s fellow contenders Top Of The Bill and Quai De Bourbon returned to their stables after check-ups, and Mr Vango remained in veterinary care with a neck fracture, but he’s expected to recover fully.
Stay tuned for more on the thrilling drama and recoveries following this year’s Grand National. 🏇💪