Nine-year-old Joshua Duckworth, who has a rare neurological condition, visited the stables of his favorite horse Iroko in Cheshire and rubbed a “lucky medal” on the horse’s nose in hopes of bringing him good luck for the Grand National. Joshua also made the same gesture to horse Jagwar, who went on to win a race at the Cheltenham Festival last month. Joshua expressed his love for horseracing and his excitement to cheer on Iroko at Aintree.

Joint trainer of Iroko, Josh Guerriero, expressed how much he and his team enjoyed meeting Joshua and his family during their visit to the stables. Joshua was given the lucky medal by a member of Brentford Football Club’s security team, who wanted him to have it for protection and strength against his disease. Joshua will be bringing the medal to Aintree to wish Iroko luck and keep him safe during the race.

Joshua has been named as the honorary 35th runner in the Grand National, a role previously held by neuroblastoma campaigner Bradley Lowery. Joshua, who is being treated at Alder Hey Children’s Hospital, was able to meet 2012 Grand National-winning horse Neptune Collonges and jockeys during their annual visit to the hospital. His father expressed their gratitude for the opportunities Aintree has given Joshua and their excitement for the upcoming race.