From the Brink of Euthanasia to Winner's Circle: A Pint Of Bear's Astonishing Recovery and Victory at Wolverhampton

A Pint Of Bear, a horse once on the brink of euthanasia due to a severe tendon injury, has astounded everyone with a comeback win at Wolverhampton.

A Pint Of Bear's journey from near-death to triumph began after a race at York in August 2021, where he suffered a critical injury. Co-owner Paul Dixon, who was present during the race, was faced a heart-wrenching decision as vets suggested euthanasia for the then three-year-old horse, trained by his son Scott Dixon.

Paul Dixon recalled (here and below cites from his interview in the Racingost): "At York, the vets hadn't seen such a severe injury. There was blood everywhere, and it was horrifying. But something about the horse's gaze made me ask if there was any possible way to save him. Miraculously, they managed to staple the severed tendon."

After enduring months of rest and meticulous care, A Pint Of Bear once assumed to spend life in retirement, but his fate took a surprising turn. A video sent by Gemma, a person looking after Dixon's rehomed horses, showed the horse energetically galloping. This led to a reassessment by vets astonished by that recovery. They gave a green light for his return to training.

"Horses tell you what they want," Dixon explained. "We brought him back with the vets' approval and Bear's clear eagerness. Scott and his team were cautious, ensuring he had all the necessary care."

A Pint Of Bear's triumphant return to racing is a true fairytale. Last spring he reentered the racing scene, culminating in a spectacular win in a 7f handicap at Wolverhampton, priced at 16-1.

Reflecting the victory, Dixon shared: "He was moments from being put down, and now he's winning races – it's unbelievable. This win has brought us more joy, even with our history of owning top race winners. A Pint Of Bear will always have a home with us." 

This victory not only marks a significant milestone for A Pint Of Bear but also stands as a testament to the resilience and spirit of these magnificent animals.