A tragic incident occurred at Ascot on Friday during the Sodexo Live! Handicap race, resulting in a horse sustaining a fatal injury and a jockey being hospitalized. The mishap unfolded as the race leaders were nearing the final furlong of the 7f race.
During the event, Excellent Echo, ridden by champion jockey Oisin Murphy, stumbled, leading to a fall, while Nordic Norm, ridden by Sam James, also went down. Despite Murphy swiftly getting back on his feet, Excellent Echo, who suffered a broken leg, managed to move a distance before being safely intercepted by the handler near the finish line.
For privacy reasons, black screens were promptly set up around the Dominic Ffrench Davis-trained three-year-old horse, and a horse ambulance promptly arrived on the scene, with veterinary professionals tending to the injured animal.
Amidst the commotion, Sam James remained on the track for some time until medical assistance arrived. Subsequently, James was carefully transported via a stretcher to an awaiting ambulance and then transferred to a hospital for further evaluation.
A spokesperson from Ascot conveyed the unfortunate news, stating, “Regrettably, following an incident during the seventh race today, Excellent Echo sustained a fatal injury. Jockey Oisin Murphy walked away unharmed. Nordic Norm was escorted to the stables for additional evaluation due to minor injuries. Jockey Sam James, who was conscious throughout, received on-site medical attention and has been moved to the hospital for further assessment.”
The stewards’ report indicated a pending investigation into potential interference during the race, involving several horses and riders, which was postponed due to the medical attention required by the involved parties. The inquiry was adjourned to a later date for resolution.
Furthermore, the stewards expressed the intention to investigate the circumstances surrounding Excellent Echo’s fall, which seemed to be caused by a near-collision with another horse. However, the inquiry was postponed as Oisin Murphy was still undergoing medical evaluation, awaiting a rescheduled date for the investigation to proceed.