A dramatic scene unfolded at a prestigious horse racing event when a champion thoroughbred suddenly collapsed during competition.

According to Daily Mail Online, jockey Jason Collett demonstrated exceptional bravery when his mount Think About It suffered a catastrophic internal hemorrhage during the Sydney Stakes on Saturday.

Despite being thrown from the horse, Collett immediately rushed to aid his fallen companion. The incident occurred when the accomplished racehorse, winner of the 2023 Everest, experienced a severe bleeding attack mid-race.

Rather than prioritizing his own safety, Collett ran back to comfort the distressed animal while other competitors continued toward the finish line.

Quick-Thinking Actions Save Champion Racehorse

Trainer Joseph Pride initially feared the worst when screens were brought out to shield spectators from the distressing scene, typically indicating imminent euthanization.

However, in what Pride described as a miraculous turn of events, Think About It managed to recover.

The horse was subsequently walked back to its box, where veterinary assessment revealed the full extent of the heart issue. The owners and training team promptly made the decision to retire the champion sprinter.

Pride expressed his astonishment at the recovery, noting that such incidents rarely have positive outcomes.

Remarkable Career Ends With Dignified Retirement

Think About It concludes an impressive racing career with 11 victories from 19 starts, including the prestigious Everest victory in 2023, which offered a prize pool of $20 million. The horse retires with career earnings of £6,250,000.

Pride shared his observations about the horse's condition after the incident, stating:

I am so happy to see him this morning. I can't even believe he doesn't even seem to be sore from the tumble. He rolled over and at speed, they're going about 60km/h.

The racing community has praised Collett's selfless actions, with many acknowledging the significant risk he took to protect his mount.

Legacy of Courage Defines Final Race

The racing analyst John Wall highlighted Collett's exceptional response on social media platform X, commending the jockey's immediate instinct to comfort the horse despite the dangerous circumstances.

Think About It, sired by the legendary two-time Cox Plate Champion So You Think, will now transition to retirement following this incident.

One of the horse's owners noted the poignant timing, as the near-fatal incident occurred exactly one year after their Everest triumph.

The event marks the end of a stellar racing career while showcasing the deep bond between jockey and horse. Think About It's legacy will be remembered for its impressive victories and the extraordinary display of courage by both horse and rider in their final race together.

Why This Story Matters

The commitment displayed by Jason Collett resonates deeply within not only the racing community but also amongst general onlookers, symbolizing the profound connections between humans and animals. This incident highlights critical aspects of sportsmanship, compassion, and professionalism in the face of unpredictability.

In conclusion, the incident involving Think About It and Jason Collett is not only a testimony to the horse's resilience but also to the jockey's heroism and the racing community’s capacity for solidarity in the face of potential tragedy.

This story, transcending mere race results, reiterates the unpredictable nature of racing and the paramount importance of quick, decisive action and compassion.