The winning run of racehorse Lord Halifax turned into tragedy when he suffered a fatal injury just yards from the finish line.
The five-year-old gelding was two lengths ahead of the field in the Betway Casino Handicap (4.15) at Newcastle on Friday, when he lost his action.
Jockey Stevie Donohoe quickly eased the 9-2 shot down, as Starfighter (7-1) passed him to take first place.
Lord Halifax came second and was dismounted, but sadly he could not be saved by the on-course veterinary team.
His trainer Charlie Fellowes tweeted: "I have the best job in the world, but on the rare occasion there is nothing I would rather do less.
"Sadly we lost Lord Halifax today @NewcastleRaces my thoughts are with his patient owners who deserved so much more, and Kassandra who rode and adored him. She will be heartbroken."
Lord Halifax had one win on his record, at Kempton in December 2019.
He finished second at the track on his first start following a wind operation last October – and took the same position at Wolverhampton on Boxing Day.
In total he won £8,729 in prize money for his owners.
Racing fans sent their condolences to Fellowes and his team via social media.
On said: "Sending everyone @FellowesRacing all my thoughts this evening after the incident with Lord Halifax, especially the girl who looked after him who was distraught."
Another tweeted: "So sorry to hear this news. My thoughts are with Lord Halifax and all those who loved and appreciated him."
A third person added: "Absolutely sick for Lord Halifax connections and @FellowesRacing awful."
