Tragic day at Ascot Races as a horrific incident leaves one horse dead and a jockey hospitalised. During the dramatic closing moments of the Sodexo Live! Handicap race, a collision sent shockwaves through the crowd. Favourite Excellent Echo, with Oisin Murphy in the saddle, clipped heels and fell, bringing down Nordic Norm and jockey Sam James with it.
Oisin Murphy walked away unscathed, but it was a different story for Sam James. After receiving emergency treatment on the track, he was stretchered into an ambulance and taken to hospital for further evaluation. Thankfully, he was conscious while leaving the course—small comfort in the wake of such distressing events.
The ill-fated Excellent Echo sustained a broken leg and despite swift efforts by handlers and vets on site, the injuries proved fatal. The racing team quickly erected black screens, signalling to the crowd the gravity of the situation.
Meanwhile, Nordic Norm, though shaken, was assessed by vets for cuts and scratches and is set for further examination. The race eventually concluded with Callum Shepherd guiding Forty Years On to victory, though the triumph was eclipsed by the day’s grim occurrences.
Our thoughts are with all those affected, especially Sam James, and the team around Excellent Echo. Racing, like life, has its ups and downs, and today was a sobering reminder of the risks involved. For now, the racing community is rallying together in support.