Tributes flow as Beloved horse Smashing Eagle dies during race at Randwick

Tributes flow as Beloved horse Smashing Eagle dies during race at Randwick

Gerald Ryan & Sterling Alexiou Racing has paid tribute to Smashing Eagle after the beloved horse died during the opening race at Randwick on Saturday.

Smashing Eagle was one of the favourites for the TAB Highway Handicap (1200m), but suffered a fatal heart attack during the race.

The incident was not picked up by broadcast as Well Timed stormed to victory

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Jockey James McDonald jumped from Smashing Eagle and hurt his ankle, but it was only a minor injury.

Trainers Ryan and Alexiou said Smashing Eagle will be “deeply missed”.

“Today has been a tough day, we lost our Smashing Eagle, a horse who meant so much to so many,” they tweeted.

“He always gave his best, touching the hearts of everyone who knew him.

“All the staff at R&A and his owners loved him dearly. He will be deeply missed by all.”

Tributes quickly came pouring in after the incident.

“A difficult start to the day at Randwick as Smashing Eagle tragically suffered a fatal heart attack. Our deepest condolences to the @GRyanRacing team, who cared for him daily, and to his connections at Arrowfield Stud and Mr. J Moore,” KickUpForRacing tweeted.

The six-year-old gelding achieved three wins from 24 starts.

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