Caulfield Cup Horse Death Sparks Calls for Racing Industry Accountability
A horse has died after a fall during the Caulfield Cup, prompting calls for greater accountability from the racing industry. The Coalition for the Protection of Horses says at least 160 horses have been killed in racing-related incidents across Australia this year.
Animal welfare campaigners are calling for greater accountability from the racing industry after Ohope Wins, a Chris Waller-trained horse, was euthanased following a fall during the Caulfield Cup.
The incident occurred when Ohope Wins was brought down by Half Yours, the previous year's winner, which had fallen at the 300m mark of the 2,400m Group One race. Ohope Wins was assessed by vets as it lay on the track and subsequently put down.
Inquiry into the incident
Racing Victoria stewards will hold an inquiry into the incident, although a date for the inquiry has not been set. Half Yours's rider, Mark Zahra, and Ohope Wins's jockey, Jye McNeil, were taken to hospital for observation. Racing Victoria confirmed Zahra was released on Saturday night, and McNeil would be released on Sunday, with both jockeys escaping serious injury.
Campaigners call for accountability
The Coalition for the Protection of Horses campaign director, Elio Celotto, said at least 160 horses have been killed as a result of injuries sustained in racing across Australia this year.