Nicky Henderson has announced the death of his star hurdler, Sir Gino.
The six-year-old was put to sleep after battling an infection, having suffered a fractured pelvis during the Grade 2 Unibet Hurdle on Trials Day at Cheltenham.
Equine Hospital Stay and Hopes for Recovery
Sir Gino had been in an equine hospital fighting an infection. The injury caused him to miss the Cheltenham Festival, but Henderson had hoped for his recovery.
Henderson shared the news that Sir Gino was put to sleep on X, stating, “We have very sadly lost the battle to overcome Sir Gino’s ailment and he has had to be put to sleep at the veterinary hospital this morning.”
Henderson’s Heartfelt Tribute
Henderson added that Sir Gino had been fighting severe deep-seated infections. He noted that the infections had been overcome last year prior to his return in the Christmas Hurdle, but this time it had spread too far, despite his fractured pelvis healing well.
Henderson described Sir Gino as “not only brilliant but one of the nicest kindest horses you could ever wish to see.” He said that his death “leaves an awful hole in Seven Barrows this morning and a very sad day for Joe & Marie Donnelly.”
Donnelly’s Loss of a Young Star
Henderson noted that Joe and Marie Donnelly have had some wonderful horses over the years and that they both care so much for them. He stated that losing such a young star with his life in front of him is particularly cruel.
Sir Gino was owned by Joe and Marie Donnelly. He was the favourite for the Champion Hurdle at Cheltenham before he was pulled up.
Unbeaten Record and High Praise
Sir Gino was unbeaten in all his 7 starts including 3 Grade 1’s over hurdles and an amazing display in a Grade 2 Chase on his one and only start over fences.
Henderson stated that Sir Gino was just at least as good as any of all the amazing horses they have been lucky enough to have trained, adding that he was unforgettable in every way.
Hopes Dashed After Cheltenham Injury
Henderson and jockey Nico de Boinville had hoped the injury-hit star would recover and return to Seven Barrows in the near future.
Speaking after Sir Gino’s injury in January, Henderson had said, “There’s every chance he could make a good recovery, but the poor boy spent most of last year in hospital, and he’s going to spend most of it there this year as well. He wants to be at home, and everyone is doing everything they possibly can.”