Ohope Wins, a mare from Chris Waller Racing, has died after being brought down in the Caulfield Cup when Half Yours fell in the home straight. The incident marred Kingswood's surprise victory in the 150th renewal of the race.
Half Yours, who won the Caulfield Cup and the Melbourne Cup last year, fell near the 300m mark and unseated Mark Zahra. Ohope Wins, ridden by Jye McNeil, was brought down in the incident.
Vets Unable to Save Ohope Wins
Vets were quickly on the scene, but Ohope Wins could not be saved. A tribute from the stable and owners Yulong Investments on X read: "Few words can express our current emotions. Our wonderful Ohope Wins was sadly brought down in today's Caulfield Cup, and despite all efforts from the on-course veterinarians, could not be saved."
"A dual Oaks winner and Champion in her native New Zealand, Ohope Wins was a true star of the turf, but to the people who looked after her everyday, she was so much more."
"She was brave. She was kind. She was full of character. But more importantly, she was loved. Our hearts go out to all involved throughout her career, especially those who cared for her on a daily basis. Thank you for all the kind messages."
Jockeys Taken to Hospital
Zahra and McNeil were taken to hospital for observation but escaped injury, according to an update from Racenet.
The Caulfield stewards report via Racing Victoria said: "An inquiry into the circumstances for Half Yours falling near the 300m was adjourned to a time and date to be fixed after taking evidence from Ethan Brown (Zahrann), Rachel King (Green Spaces) and apprentice Jabez Johnstone (Kings Valley), assisted by Matthew Hyland, Chief Executive Officer Victorian Jockey's Association."
"A post-race veterinary examination revealed the gelding had sustained lacerations and abrasions. A veterinary clearance is required prior to being permitted to race again or officially trial."
Kingswood Claims Victory
Kingswood, trained by Gavin Bedggood, finished with a strong late run down the outside to claim victory. "Great performance, unbelievable effort by Gavin, he had the horse spot on," Allen said.
"Bit of a messy race, we were three wide early but he was in a nice rhythm, I didn't want to light him up and push forward."
"When a bit of a wave came around him at the 1200m I was happy to leave that go and track them into the race, I knew he'd show a good turn of foot … and he cantered up to them and put them away."
Enfjaar, trained in Britain by Roger Varian, earned his spot in next month's Lexus Melbourne Cup after finishing third under Ray Dawson and is 20-1 (from 25-1) with William Hill.
