A horse named after the late boxing legend Ricky Hatton won the Old Roan Chase at Aintree Racecourse, with the £45,560 prize money donated to the Ricky Hatton Foundation. The nine-year-old gelding Hitman, co-owned by Ged Mason and former Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson, triumphed in the Grade 2 race on Saturday.
Hitman, who had previously finished second in 2022 and 2024, secured victory ahead of Master Chewy. Co-owner Ged Mason had pledged that all prize money earned by the horse this season would go to the foundation, set up following Hatton's death last month at the age of 46.
Speaking after the win, Mason said: 'He did that for Ricky up there. Ricky was a top, top man who helped so many people. Do speak out if you have got problems – that is what his message would be today.' He added: 'I am absolutely delighted that we can help Ricky’s memory and legacy in some way.'
The Ricky Hatton Foundation aims to tackle mental health challenges and reduce stigma. Paul Speak, Hatton’s long-time manager and friend, praised Mason as 'an unsung hero' and said: 'I said a prayer, and it was answered.'
