Grand National jockey praised for incredible sportsmanship after helping rival mid-race

Grand National festival jockey Callum Pritchard has been praised for his heroics after a dramatic incident at Aintree on Friday. It was during the Topham Chase that Welsh rider James Bowen became unsteady on Fantastic Lady, as the mare made an error in the back straight of the event.

Jumping the National fences, the horse carried her hind legs through the top of the obstacle, throwing Bowen into the air. Bowen was then left clinging on to Fantastic Lady’s neck as viewers held their breath as it looked like the jockey was about to fall. However, disaster was averted thanks to the quick thinking of Pritchard.

Pritchard, who was riding the John McConnell-trained Dreal Deal, stretched out his right hand in a remarkable act of sportsmanship to keep Bowen up-right, with the rider eventually managing to steady himself.

"I was nearly gone," Bowen said afterwards. "Callum gave me a hand and I managed to drag myself back up. I don't think there were any words exchanged, no roaring and shouting anyway, but I was very grateful to him. I did appreciate it. For a split-second I thought I was gone."

Both horses went on to finish the course, with 66-1 shot Dreal Deal beaten 20 lengths into tenth and Fantastic Lady finishing a well-beaten 21st. However, Pritchard's fearlessness in assisting Bowen has been the biggest talking point since they crossed the finish line.

Taking to social media, several fans have now heaped praised on the jockey for his gallantry. "Different breed these jockeys, that is tremendous sportsmanship" one viewer said on X. Another added: "Love this".

"The epitome of sportsmanship and lovely to see!" a third chimed in. A fourth said: "Callum Pritchard deserves an award above and beyond what a hero". Another simply said: "That is brilliant".