Pipe wants no 'knee-jerk reaction'

DAVID PIPE has called on racing's rulers not to make a "knee-jerk reaction" to the deaths of Synchronised and According To Pete in the Grand National.

Pipe, who won the race in 2008 with Comply Or Die, believes the safety measures in place have improved greatly in recent years.

With another review in the offing, Pipe hopes the appropriate measures are taken.

"I would like to pass on my heartfelt condolences to the connections of Synchronised and According To Pete, who were both lost under unforeseen circumstances in the big race, said Pipe.

"It is a very sad loss for all concerned as these horses become a part of your extended family.

"However, I urge that we do not make some kind of unfounded knee-jerk reaction to these losses.

"As with all competitive sport, there is an element of risk and Aintree have continually been at pains to improve the safety for both horse and jockey for many years now.

"They will review the race, as they always do, and make the appropriate improvements."