Sir Gino, one of Britain's most celebrated racehorses, is embroiled in a desperate fight for survival after developing a severe viral infection during his recovery from a fractured pelvis. The unbeaten six-year-old, who was the overwhelming favourite for next month's prestigious Champion Hurdle, now confronts a second major health scare in as many years.
A Devastating Setback for a Racing Star
Fears mounted for Sir Gino's wellbeing after he was pulled up during the International Hurdle at Cheltenham on January 24. Initial concerns of irreparable damage were alleviated when racecourse veterinarians acted swiftly, enabling his transfer to the Three Counties Equine Hospital in Tewkesbury for urgent care.
While his rehabilitation from the pelvic fracture was always anticipated to be a gradual process, the emergence of this new viral threat represents a cruel twist of fate. Remarkably, Sir Gino fell ill exactly one year to the day after contracting a previous infection that also jeopardised his life.
Trainer's Anxious Vigil and Historical Parallels
Renowned trainer Nicky Henderson, who was preparing Sir Gino for a run at Newbury twelve months ago when the gelding first became unwell, is now praying for a similarly positive outcome. The horse, owned by Joe and Marie Donnelly, responded successfully to treatment last year, offering a glimmer of hope amidst the current perilous situation.
'Poor old Sir Gino - he looked like he had the world under control,' lamented Henderson, speaking at Huntingdon after watching the promising Act Of Innocence win the Sidney Banks Hurdle. 'The fracture is OK but we have got to keep on top of everything. Life is never easier. He gets no luck, none whatsoever - and if ever a horse deserved a change of luck, it is him.'
Henderson expressed frustration at the circumstances, noting, 'It's ridiculous - we have got the best horse in the world and we can't do anything with him.' Sir Gino remains under veterinary care, with Henderson emphasising the internal nature of the infection and describing the scenario as entering 'a different battlefield.'
A Pattern of Misfortune and Silver Linings
This latest health crisis compounds a run of ill-fortune for Sir Gino, who was also ruled out of Cheltenham in 2024 when hot favourite for the Triumph Hurdle. Despite these setbacks, Henderson found some consolation in the performance of Act Of Innocence, owned by Gordon and Su Hall.
The horse impressed by motoring away from rivals, earning quotes of 10/1 from Paddy Power for the Turners Novices Hurdle. The same owners also hold Old Park Star, the favourite for the Festival's opening Supreme Novices Hurdle.
'They are two gorgeous horses,' Henderson remarked with pride. 'I couldn't fault anything that I saw from him. We were thinking and hoping we would see that from him. I would have liked to put him away to go over fences next season but, after that, I'm going to be able to! He has got the lot.'
As Sir Gino's battle continues, the racing world watches anxiously, hoping for a recovery that would allow this exceptional talent to finally fulfil his potential on the track.
