A Scary Incident at Randwick: Think About It’s Fall During the Sydney Stakes
In the world of horse racing, the thrill of competition is often accompanied by the inherent risks that come with it. This was starkly highlighted during Saturday’s $3 million Sydney Stakes at Randwick, where champion racehorse Think About It experienced a harrowing fall that left spectators and connections alike holding their breath.
The Incident Unfolds
As the race progressed, Think About It, known for his impressive performances, rounded the bend at the back of the field. Suddenly, he appeared wobbly, and in a shocking turn of events, collapsed on the home straight. The sight of the beloved horse falling sent waves of concern through the crowd, as jockey Jason Collett was thrown from the mount. Fortunately, Collett was able to walk away from the incident without injury, a small relief amidst the chaos.
Immediate Concerns for Think About It
As Overpass surged ahead to claim victory, the focus quickly shifted back to Think About It. The immediate concern for the horse’s welfare was palpable. Spectators and connections alike feared the worst, but in a remarkable twist, Think About It managed to get back on his feet and walk off the track. This unexpected turn of events was met with a collective sigh of relief.
A Miraculous Recovery
Commentator Bruce McAvaney provided updates that brought hope to anxious fans. “Think About It has walked off the track and into his box and had a good drink,” he reported. “We think he’s OK. That is quite remarkable; that’s the best news we’ve had. At this stage, that’s a bit of a miracle.” The resilience of the horse was a testament to his strength and spirit.
Official Updates from RacingNSW
Later, RacingNSW confirmed that Think About It had suffered a bleeding attack, a condition that can occur in racehorses and often raises concerns about their future racing careers. “Think About It, which collapsed in Race 6 due to a bleeding attack, has recovered and is under veterinary care,” they tweeted. The news that Collett was uninjured and cleared to continue with his remaining rides added another layer of relief to the situation.
Collett’s Perspective
Reflecting on the incident, Collett expressed his amazement at Think About It’s ability to walk back to the stalls. “I’m OK, and amazingly the horse has walked back to the stalls,” he said. “They don’t do that. I thought he’d broken down, but he’s bled out.” His words underscored the unpredictability of racing and the emotional rollercoaster that comes with it.
Trainer Joe Pride’s Relief
Trainer Joe Pride also shared his relief after witnessing the incident. “I walked down waiting to see the worst, and I saw his big head bobbing up above the screen. It was such a relief. He’s a beautiful horse, and we’ll take the best of care of him,” he told Channel 7. Pride’s emotional response highlighted the deep bond trainers have with their horses, viewing them not just as competitors but as cherished companions.
Think About It’s Legacy
Think About It is no stranger to the spotlight; he won The Everest last year and has amassed over $12 million in prize money throughout his career. His remarkable journey in the racing world has endeared him to fans and connections alike. As the dust settles from the incident, the racing community is left wondering whether he will be cleared to continue racing, a question that hangs in the air as everyone hopes for his swift recovery.
The events of Saturday serve as a reminder of the unpredictability of horse racing, where triumph and tragedy can coexist in the blink of an eye. The resilience of both horse and rider in the face of adversity is a testament to the spirit of the sport, leaving fans hopeful for Think About It’s future on the racetrack.