The horse surprised spectators across the world after crossing the finishing line at a surprising price
Ryan Mania celebrating on Auroras Encore after winning the John Smith’s Grand National Chase during Grand National Day at Aintree Racecourse(Image: PA Wire)
The surprise 66-1 Grand National winning horse Auroras Encore has died at the age of 23. The winner of eight races, he also finished second in the Scottish National and earned over £725,000 in prize-money for trainer Sue Smith. His career ended a year after his Aintree victory.
Joel Parkinson and Sue Smith Racing shared a touching tribute to Auroras Encore on Facebook yesterday, May 8. It said: “It is with great sadness that we share the passing of our 2013 Grand National winner, Auroras Encore, at the age of 23.
“Auroras Encore achieved what every owner, trainer and jockey dreams of when he won the 2013 Grand National — the world’s most famous and toughest steeplechase. To conquer the Aintree fences and win the hardest jumps race of them all takes an incredibly brave and special horse, and Auroras Encore did it in unforgettable style.”
The heartfelt message continued: “His victory gave everyone connected to him memories that will last a lifetime and secured his place in racing history forever.
“After his racing days were over, he spent his retirement here with us on the farm, enjoying the peaceful life he deserved. He was a much-loved horse with a kind nature and a big personality, and he remained part of the family right until the very end.
“We feel incredibly lucky to have cared for him throughout his retirement and to have shared so many years with such a remarkable horse. Rest easy, champion. You will always be remembered and never forgotten.”
Auroras Encore(Image: PA Wire)
Auroras Encore, who had a history of causing upsets at Aintree having won a handicap hurdle there at 50-1 in 2008, was ridden in the National by Ryan Mania in the colours of Jim Beaumont, David Van Der Hoeven and Douglas Pryde.
A tribute from Ryan said: “It was one of those very unexpected things in life, a monumental success for me and the horse. It was life-changing for me as it opened a lot of doors and gave me opportunities I hadn’t had before. And it is history. Whatever happens, my name is always going to be there.”
Tributes have been paid to the Grand National winning horse and his connections. On Facebook, Sue Lockwood said: “I remember him winning over hurdles at Cheltenham and followed him ever since. He was second to Merrigo in the Scottish national year before he won the national what an absolute pleasure he has been. Once in a lifetime horse.”
Zara York said: “Oh no. I remember backing him all those years ago! He was a little fighter! I admired him that much that I included a bit of his name when I named my own horse! Night night my boy have a good sleep and much love to everyone that knew and loved him in his life.”
Patricia Hoar commented: “So very sad sorry for the loss of Auroras Encore such a shame never forgotten. RIP Auroras Encore. Sympathy to all connections on the sad loss of a lovely horse will be missed RIP. Pleased he enjoyed a long and happy retirement.”
Trisha Bennett wrote: “Rest easy, you will always be a champion. Thinking of all those who looked after him and loved him too. No matter the size of the animal they do become family.”
