The Australian racing community is in shock following the news reigning Cox Plate champion Sir Dragonet was euthanised after breaking down during trackwork on Saturday morning.
The six-year-old won Moonee Valley’s famous race last year and was taking his final look around the same track before next week's title defence.
However, he suffered the catastrophic incident under jockey Ben Allen and could not be saved.
Trainers of the stallion Ciaron Maher and David Eustace expressed their shock in a statement released on Saturday morning.
“We’re heartbroken to announce that Sir Dragonet has broken down during a piece of work at Moonee Valley this morning and was euthanised on course,” Ciaron Maher Racing said in a statement.
“In the year that the Dragon has been in our care, he has won our hearts with his exploits both on and off the track.
“Our condolences go out to his owners, connections and all who cared for this wonderful horse.
“It has left a hole in our hearts but we’re forever thankful for our time with him and he will forever remain a Cox Plate champion.
“Rest easy Dragon.”
The news comes on the day of one of Melbourne’s biggest horse races, with the Caulfield Cup to be run at 5.15 pm AEDST.