A DYING racing fan ‘with just days left to live’ was granted his final wish as he got to watch the horses one last time from his trackside hospital bed.
Cameras at Morphettville racetrack near Adelaide, Australia, caught the moment the man, assisted by a paramedic, watched the action around 200 metres from the finish line.
"He's only got days to live… His last dying wish was to come to the races."
This story is truly amazing. @CWilliamsJockey explains the story behind the gentleman at the 200m mark in the hospital bed. pic.twitter.com/56eL3gWitQ
— Racing.com (@Racing) May 1, 2021
Initially, commentators were unsure as to what exactly was going on.
But top jockey Craig Williams explained all after his victory on Lady Dunmore in the final race of the day.
The rider, who gave his winning goggles to the bed-ridden racing fanatic, said: “Nigel Latham was the inspiration for her success today.
“Nigel’s here. He’s only got maybe days to live. He’s come here with the ambulance people [and he’s] at the 200m mark.
“His last dying wish was to come to the races.
“So to Nigel Latham I said, ‘if my horse gets over the line, I’ll make sure I give you the winning goggles’.
“She did her job really well. It was his inspiration and we need to be really grateful to people like Nigel who support the industry.
“His last dying wish was to come here today for a great race day.”
How good is this!
@MaccasMock @James_Jordan pic.twitter.com/T7nCuYWxJ6
— Racing.com (@Racing) May 1, 2021
Punters watching the action were absolutely floored by the heartbreaking story behind the footage.
And they were quick to praise Williams for his kind words and acts.
ITV racing presenter Francesca Cumani said simply: “Wow.”
One punter said: “Whatever happens in Newmarket/Kentucky, there’s no doubt that this is the emotional story of the day.”
Another racing fan wrote: “Lump in the throat this, wow, outstanding to all involved.”
One comment read: “This is what racing is all about. Shivers down my spine listening to this.”
Another said: “Amazing from Craig. Love or hate his riding, you can’t deny his class.”
A fellow Twitter user posted: “This is where Craig is exceptional as both a person and representative for the industry. Taking the time to find out the story and educating everyone else about it.
“So happy for Nigel to be able to have his dying wishes fulfilled.”
While another, clearly touched by the scenes, wrote: “Try not to cry.”
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