Gidleigh Park Undergoing Tests Following Atrial Fibrillation Episode

Promising six-year-old Gidleigh Park is undergoing further medical examinations after experiencing a second episode of atrial fibrillation during his chasing debut at Kempton on Monday.

Trained by Harry Fry, Gidleigh Park had shown significant potential last season, winning his first three hurdle races, including a Grade Two at Cheltenham, before finishing sixth in the Albert Bartlett Novices’ Hurdle at the Festival.

Hopes were high for his transition to chasing, but jockey Bryan Carver pulled him up after just five fences, with a post-race veterinary report confirming an irregular heartbeat.

Fry revealed this is not the first time Gidleigh Park has faced this issue, as he had a similar episode in October last year. On that occasion, the horse recovered within 24 hours and went on to enjoy a successful novice hurdle campaign.

“He seems absolutely fine himself,” Fry said. “The vets are running tests, including an ECG, and we’re awaiting further results. This happened before, and he reset himself quickly, but we’re monitoring him closely.”

Reflecting on Monday’s race, Fry added:

“You could tell early on that he wasn’t travelling or jumping with his usual zest. Bryan did the right thing by pulling him up when it was clear something was amiss.”

Fry emphasised that Gidleigh Park’s recovery is the top priority, with no timeline set for his return to action.

“The best-case scenario is that he corrects himself, but if not, he may need treatment. We’re not rushing anything. Our focus is on his health and getting to the bottom of this issue before considering his future plans,” he concluded.

Gidleigh Park’s connections remain hopeful for a full recovery as they await results from the ongoing veterinary investigations.