Famous Bridge is set to lose a Grand National Trial win after failing a drugs test.
The horse claimed victory at Haydock on February 15 but is now expected to be disqualified.
PAFamous Bridge (left) is set to be disqualified for failing a drugs test[/caption]
It comes after a positive drugs test for a muscle relaxant which prevents horses from tying up.
As a result, the £56,950 in prize money earned by the win is also set to be lost.
The nine-year-old represents Hemmings Racing in the green, gold and white silks of late billionaire Butlins founder Trevor Hemmings.
Trainer Nicky Richards admitted his disappointment at the news following the positive drugs test.
He told the Racing Post: “We’re going to lose the race.
“His sample contained Dantrolene Sodium, which he’s had for the last two and a bit seasons and which is commonly used across the whole industry. It’s not a performance-enhancing drug.
“It’s frustrating because we were working within BHA (British Horseracing Authority) guidelines. I’ve been training for 26 years and we are always extremely careful with this sort of thing.
“He’s probably had ten tests previously in his career and always been clear.
“It’s so disappointing for myself and the team at Greystoke and Gleadhill Stud, and particularly for Famous Bridge, who is a wonderful racehorse.
“The Hemmings team have been wonderful, but it’s very disappointing for everyone.”
PARichards confirmed the horse is expected to lose its Grand National Trial win[/caption]
Famous Bridge had also been entered into next month’s Grand National.
However, the horse is not expected to be rated high enough to make the final list of runners.
Despite that, odds as big as 100/1 can still be found ahead of the handicap steeplechase.
The 2025 Grand National will be held at Aintree on April 5 to close the racecourse’s festival.
I Am Maximus claimed victory under Paul Townend for Willie Mullins and J.P. McManus last year.
It was the second win by a Mullins-trained horse following Hedgehunter’s victory in 2005.
Last year’s winner is currently his most fancied chance of third victory, although I Am Maximus is currently only the fourth favourite.
Just over a week from the race, the Thomas Gibney-trained seven-year-old Intense Raffles is the favourite with bookmakers.
