With about 200 metres to go in the 2400-metre race, Half Yours appeared to make contact with Kings Valley while in the middle of the pack. Half Yours went down heavily, sending jockey Mark Zahra to the turf. Jye McNeil, riding Ohope Wins, was unable to avoid the fallen horse, bringing down the McEvoy Racing product.
Racing Victoria stewards later confirmed that Ohope Wins was euthanased by the on-course veterinarian. "The mare was unable to be saved due to the nature of the injury sustained," a statement read. The stewards extended condolences to owners Yulong, trainer Chris Waller and their staff.
Yulong and Waller released their own statement, saying "few words can express our current emotions." They described Ohope Wins as a "true star of the turf" and said "she was brave, she was kind, she was full of character, but more importantly, she was loved."
Half Yours, the defending Caulfield Cup victor, got up and completed the course without a rider. Trainer Tony McEvoy said the horse suffered two superficial lacerations. "That was terrible to watch," McEvoy said.
Both Zahra and McNeil were conscious and alert when transported to hospital for further assessment. The stewards confirmed the fall would be subject to an inquiry.
The final race of the day at Caulfield was delayed as a result of the incident.