“SHE WAS BRAVE. SHE WAS KIND. SHE WAS LOVED.” — CHRIS WALLER’S HEARTBREAKING TRIBUTE TO OHOPE WINS

The champion mare had so much more to give. After a devastating fall at the Caulfield Cup, trainer Chris Waller and her owners are mourning a horse who meant far more than her achievements on the track.

The racing world has been left grieving after Ohope Wins, the talented New Zealand mare trained by Chris Waller, died following a serious fall in the Caulfield Cup on Saturday, October 17, 2026.

With only around 200 metres remaining in the 2,400-metre race, last year’s Melbourne Cup winner Half Yours fell during a racing incident. Ohope Wins, ridden by Jye McNeil, was unable to avoid the fallen horse and also came down.

Veterinarians rushed to help the mare, but the injuries she sustained were too severe. Racing Victoria later confirmed that she had been humanely euthanised at the track.

For those who had cared for her throughout her career, the news was devastating.

More than a champion

In a tribute released by Yulong and Chris Waller Racing, the people closest to Ohope Wins described a mare whose value could never be measured by trophies alone.

“She was brave. She was kind. She was full of character, but more importantly, she was loved.”

The statement captured the bond between the mare and the people who worked with her every day. Behind the racing results was an animal known to her connections for her personality, spirit and the affection she inspired.

The tribute also extended heartfelt thoughts to everyone involved throughout her career, especially the staff who cared for her on a daily basis.

A remarkable career cut short

Ohope Wins had already established herself as a standout performer, winning both the New Zealand Oaks and the ATC Oaks in Australia in 2026.

Her achievements made her a celebrated mare, but her loss has reminded the racing community that every horse represents a team of people who invest time, care and emotion into its life and career.

Saturday’s incident also involved jockey Mark Zahra, who was riding Half Yours, and Jye McNeil. Both men were taken to hospital for assessment after the fall. Subsequent reports said neither had sustained serious injuries.

Questions remain after the fall

Racing Victoria confirmed that stewards would conduct an inquiry into the incident, alongside a veterinary review.

The precise circumstances leading to the fall remain subject to investigation. No final findings should be assumed before that process is completed.

As the racing community waits for further answers, the immediate loss remains deeply felt by Ohope Wins’ owners, trainer and stable team.

A final farewell

For Chris Waller and the people who knew Ohope Wins beyond the racecourse, the heartbreak is about more than a result or a lost champion.

It is about a horse who was cared for, celebrated and loved — and whose life ended in a moment no one wanted to witness.

Her victories will remain part of racing history. But for the people who looked after her, the memories that matter most may be the quieter ones: her character, her spirit and the bond they shared.

Rest in peace, Ohope Wins. You were more than a champion — you were loved.