Post-mortem examinations conducted on three horses—Bangers And Cash, Abuffalosoldier, and Napper Tandy—who tragically died during the final day of Cheltenham’s November Meeting have concluded that the fatalities were neither predictable nor preventable.
The deaths prompted an enhanced review by the British Horseracing Authority (BHA), which gathered data from racecourse staff, jockeys, trainers, veterinary surgeons, and medication and training records. The investigation determined the causes of death and found no connection between the incidents.
In a statement, the BHA confirmed:
- Bangers And Cash and Abuffalosoldier succumbed to separate forms of cardiovascular collapse, a condition classified as Exercise Associated Sudden Death (EASD).
- Napper Tandy suffered a fractured neck vertebra following a fall, with no other abnormalities detected.
The BHA emphasised that EASD is a rare occurrence in horses, even among those deemed fit and healthy. Incidents of EASD affect only 0.04% of race runners overall and 0.09% in jump racing.
“These findings confirm that no causal link existed between the incidents and that none of the fatalities could have been foreseen or avoided before the race,” the statement added.
The deaths have renewed focus on equine welfare in racing, with the BHA continuing to implement and review measures to ensure the safety of both horses and riders.