TOP racehorse Some Neck tragically died yesterday following a disastrous mid-race mix-up.
The fan-favourite ten-year-old was among a small group of horses taking the wrong course during the cross country race at Punchestown Festival.
Carnage ensued as several runners split to the right of a fork while the rest of the field carried on down the left.
Jockey Ben Harvey brought his mount to a standstill, losing all momentum on the former Cheltenham racecourse winner who had been in fine form.
To Some Neck’s credit, he did gain a foothold in the race once again, but slipped up at the last.
Sadly, that incident cost him his life, as confirmed by the syndicate who own part of the horse.
A tweet from The 119 Partnership read last night: “Devastated to say that we lost Some Neck at Punchestown today.
“We are so upset for him because he loved racing and did his job so well.
“He‘s been a dream horse for us and we can only thank John & all at @McConnellRacing for giving him so much love.”
The racing community were quick to offer their condolences to owners of the popular grey, who had earned more than £74,500 for connections during his five-and-a-half year racing career.
One said: “Terrible news, thoughts are with everyone who loved him.”
Another commented: “Really sorry to hear this. Got a great kick out of watching him over the banks this season.”
A fellow Twitter user wrote: “Ah no, I am so sorry to read this. What a striking horse.”
One comment read: “So sorry to read this, I was a big Some Neck fan. It was great to see him win at Cheltenham on the cross country course. Condolences to all.”
While a fellow punter posted: “I’m so sorry to read this. How heartbreaking for you all, he’s given you some unforgettable days.”
