Hitman Wins Emotional Old Roan Chase at Aintree, Donates Prize to Ricky Hatton Foundation

Hitman, a nine-year-old racehorse named after the late boxer Ricky Hatton, won the Old Roan Chase at Aintree in 2024, marking his first victory in three years and since Hatton's death. Trained by Paul Nicholls and ridden by Freddie Gingell, Hitman finished two lengths ahead of Master Chewy, securing a prize of £45,560, which the owners have pledged to donate to the newly established Ricky Hatton Foundation. Co-owner Ged Mason, along with former Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson, bought Hitman in 2021 to honor Hatton's legacy, despite Hatton's allergy to horses. Nicholls praised the win as a significant and emotional victory for the connections, highlighting the horse's affinity for Aintree and Gingell's excellent ride. The victory was especially poignant given Hatton's recent passing and his nickname 'The Hitman,' with his family and friends supporting the charitable foundation set up in his memory. The win also boosted Gingell's career prospects and reinforced the strong ties between the racing community and Hatton's legacy.