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A tragedy struck at Wetherby races as the heavily favored Anaconda, a 1-100 certain winner, suffered a fatal injury while far ahead at the last hurdle.
The 4-5 favorite demonstrated exceptional skill in the 2m juvenile hurdle event, ridden by 5lb claimer jockey Jack Power.
The incredibly promising three-year-old appeared to be a star in the making as he surged ahead approaching the final hurdle.Credit: Racing TV
Anaconda seemed destined for victory after jumping the last flight 25 lengths ahead, but tragically sustained a fatal injury.Credit: Racing TV
Leading the pack throughout the race, he was 20, 25, even 30 lengths clear and virtually unbeatable under the guidance of Grand National-winning trainer Lucinda Russell.
A total of £5,000 was wagered on Anaconda at the lowest available price of 1.01 (1-100) on the Betfair Exchange as his victory appeared guaranteed.
However, disaster struck at the final hurdle when the horse collapsed.
Unfortunately, the injury that the three-year-old gelding sustained was confirmed to be fatal.
The news was confirmed by Racing TV host Nick Lightfoot, while Chris Dixon, reporting live from the track, described the incident as ‘horrible’.
Genbu, the 7-2 underdog, was declared the winner, but even the horse's owner expressed that the victory felt insignificant in light of the events.
A post from Ursa Major Racing on X stated: “That’s not how we want to win a race. We would’ve gladly settled for second place if it meant Anaconda was alright.
“Our thoughts are with @lucindavrussell and her team.”
One spectator remarked: “RIP Anaconda. A sad moment in this great sport.”
Another added: “I was about to say they might have found the Triumph Hurdle winner with Anaconda, then this happened – so cruel.”
More updates to follow.
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What happened to Anaconda at Wetherby races? Anaconda, the heavily favored horse, suffered a fatal injury while leading the race, resulting in a tragic incident.
Anaconda, the heavily favored horse, suffered a fatal injury while leading the race, resulting in a tragic incident.
How did the racing community react to the incident? The racing community expressed deep sorrow, with many stating that the victory of another horse felt insignificant compared to the loss of Anaconda.
The racing community expressed deep sorrow, with many stating that the victory of another horse felt insignificant compared to the loss of Anaconda.
