Jordan Gainford heads home after assessment from Haydock fall

Jockey Jordan Gainford was taken to Aintree Hospital following a fall from Minella Sixo at Haydock on Saturday but was later allowed to go home.

The Gordon Elliott-trained six-year-old was just getting into contention in the opening Pertemps Network Handicap Hurdle when he suffered a heavy fall at the third-last flight.

Gainford – who has enjoyed a terrific association with Hewick in recent seasons, with victories including the bet365 Gold Cup at Sandown and the Galway Plate – was quickly attended to by the medical services and was reported to be conscious before he was transferred for further assessment.

A Jockey Club spokesperson said after the conclusion to the card: “Jordan has left hospital and is on his way home.”

There was around a 25-minute delay to proceedings while medical teams got back into place but within three races the card was back running on time.