ABSOLUTE CARNAGE in Cheltenham Cross Country chase as horse smashes into rail moments after jockey takes wrong turn

ABSOLUTE carnage unfolded in the Glenfarclas Cross Country Handicap Chase at Cheltenham on Friday afternoon as one horse galloped off course and another collided with the railings.

Things began to go pear shaped when the 10-3 favourite Tommie Beau took a wrong turn under Micheal Nolan.

Felix De Giles had to yank hard right to stop his charge following in the hoofprints of Tommie Beau as he galloped the WRONG side of the rail

Jockey Micheal Nolan tried to correct his error, but Tommie Beau had other ideas

Poor Nolan was left galloping all by himself in no man’s land

And the drama continued when, only a few strides later, Sweet David’s saddle got caught on the rail

The horses in behind had to dodge the rail, which was left in disrepute after the collision

The unruly gelding, who had been travelling very well, galloped to the left of the rail despite his jockey doing everything he could to stay on course.

And he almost took the subsequent winner, Sweet David, with him as he stubbornly charged in the wrong direction.

Sweet David’s jockey, Felix De Giles, was having a total fiasco ride as only a few strides later, his saddle got caught on the rail.

A long stretch of white railing was attached to the horse for a stride before it snapped in half completely.

The horses in behind had to pull right sharply to avoid the wreckage.

The Gabriel Leenders-trained Sweet David, a 5-1 shot, went on to win the race, helped by the fact the 10-3 fav had travelled off course.

THE SUN RACING MEMBERS ENCLOSURE

The only place to get Templegate’s tips first – and at the best prices – is by joining Sun Racing’s brilliant Members Enclosure.

Sign up now for just £1* to be part of racing’s best winning team and get…

• Four free racing tickets, four times a year – worth £300
• Templegate’s daily tips at the BEST prices before anyone else
• Tomorrow’s copy of The Favourite at 9pm today
• Exclusive insights from top trainer Ben Pauling
• VIP competitions from Racing Breaks each month
• New customer offer with Coral

Become a member today for just £1*

*For the first month then £3 per month thereafter.

SIGN UP NOW

18+ Ts and Cs apply. First month membership £1, then £3 per month unless you cancel at least 7 days before your next billing date. For more information contact [email protected]

Punters were quick to blame Nolan on X.

One said: “Awful jockey error. Tommie Beau was cruising.”

Another added: “Totally embarassing ride.”

Another added: “Jockey should hang his head in shame and get a 28 day ban.”

BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERS