National hero Miinnehoma passes away

Miinnehoma, winner of the 1994 Grand National, has died at the age of 29, trainer David Pipe has announced.

The gelding was 11 years old when he carried the colours of comedian Freddie Starr to victory in the world’s greatest steeplechase at Aintree.

He was trained by Pipe’s father, Martin, and ridden by Richard Dunwoody.

Miinnehoma raced from 1989 to 1996, winning 11 of his 25 starts including the 1992 Sun Alliance Chase at the Cheltenham Festival.

He earned almost £250,000 in total prize money.

Dunwoody, a three-time champion jockey, has fond memories of Miinnehoma’s Aintree triumph.

It was Dunwoody’s second National victory, following on from his success on West Tip eight years earlier.

He said: “He was a great horse and he’s had a good innings.

“Aintree was obviously a very special day.”