Liverpool, England – Love Island star Faye Winter expressed her sorrow over the tragic deaths of two horses, Giovinco and Pikar, during a race at the Aintree Festival on Ladies Day. The incident occurred on Friday, leading to calls from animal charities to end horse racing. In response to the heartbreaking events, Winter took to Instagram to share her sentiments and join the debate surrounding the sport’s safety.
Giovinco, a seven-year-old horse ridden by jockey Stephen Mulqueen, could not survive the injuries sustained during a fall, despite extensive veterinary intervention. Pikar tragically broke his neck after a fall, as reported by campaign group Animal Aid. Winter, known for her love of animals and her golden retriever named Bonnie, expressed her condolences for the horses and their owners during a Q&A session on her Instagram page.
Racing host Ed Chamberlain from ITV also offered condolences to the owners, Mulqueen, and trainer Lucinda Russell, acknowledging the impact of the tragic events on the racing community. The Aintree Racecourse spokesperson confirmed the unfortunate outcome for Giovinco, stating that the necessary action for the horse’s welfare was euthanasia.
The Aintree Festival has seen similar tragedies in the past, with three horse deaths in 2023 and four in 2022, including incidents during the Grand National race. Following these incidents, organizers have implemented safety measures for the 2024 races, including modifications to fences and other course features aimed at improving the well-being of horses and jockeys.
Apart from her involvement in the discussion on horse racing, Winter recently shared the loss of her beloved dog Blondie and reflected on the comfort and support her pets have provided during challenging times. Additionally, she has committed to raising funds for Guide Dogs, highlighting her dedication to animal welfare causes.
Overall, the incidents at the Aintree Festival have sparked conversations about the safety and ethics of horse racing, prompting calls for increased measures to protect the well-being of animals involved in the sport. Winter’s advocacy for animal welfare and her personal experiences with pets further emphasize the importance of addressing these concerns within the industry.