RACING was hit by tragedy on Sunday when Saudi Derby winner Pink Kamehameha died after suffering a shocking mid-race heart failure.
And the jockey riding him was rushed to hospital after going crashing through the running rail in a spectacular fast-speed fall.
The three-year-old Japanese horse gained worldwide recognition for scooping £656,934 in the prestigious Saudi Derby in Riyadh in February.
But disaster struck during a race in Tokyo on Sunday.
Reports say the horse succumbed to acute heart failure during an awful incident approaching the home straight.
In the middle of the pack, the horse, who looked a touch anxious in the parade ring, suddenly veered left and smashed through the inside running rail.
Jockey Hiroshi Kitamura was sent flying in the impact as the horse collapsed to the floor and died.
Kitamura was then rushed to hospital in nearby Fuchu City, where, fortunately, he is not believed to have suffered any serious injuries.
Racing punters were quick to express their shock and sadness at the terrible loss, with footage of the incident emerging online.
One said: “I will never forget about you. You were just three years old. Rest in peace.”
Another wrote: “Terrible news – Japan’s Saudi Derby winner Pink Kamehameha has sadly passed away.”
Another comment read: “Devastated to learn that Pink Kamehameha suffered heart failure in today’s Unicorn Stakes. We had an amazing two months together in Saudi Arabia and Dubai.
“He gave it his all every time, winning the Saudi Derby. Thank you for the memories. I’ll never forget you, Pink.”
Pink Kamehameha had won twice in a seven-race career, picking up more than £720,000 for connections.
His win in Riyadh looked to have him on the path to superstardom, especially with legends like Frankie Dettori trailing behind on their mounts.
This was just the horse’s second race since that Riyadh triumph.
But sadly his life and career cut short.
One punter posted a clip of the horse looking slightly on edge in the parade ring before the race, but vets deemed him well enough to compete.
