Cup star ‘unlikely’ to defend after fall

By the Editorial Team · Monday, October 19, 2026

Half Yours, the defending Melbourne Cup winner, suffered a fall during the Caulfield Cup that also led to the euthanasia of Ohope Wins, casting doubt on his participation in next month’s race. The incident involved multiple horses and jockeys, prompting an ongoing stewards inquiry, while betting on Half Yours has been suspended amid uncertainty about his racing future.

Reigning Melbourne Cup winner Half Yours is unlikely to defend his title next month following a fall during the Caulfield Cup on Saturday that resulted in the euthanasia of dual Group 1-winning mare Ohope Wins.

Trainers Tony and Calvin McEvoy reported the horse was seen grazing outside the Flemington stable on Sunday but no definitive decision has been made regarding his participation in the Melbourne Cup. They indicated that keeping Half Yours in the paddock is currently the most probable course of action. Wagering on the Melbourne Cup has been suspended for Half Yours, who had been listed at $9 odds to retain his crown. The international contenders Defiantly, Trustyourinstinct, and James J Braddock presently lead the betting market at $8, $9, and $11 respectively.

The Victorian Jockeys Association confirmed that both Melbourne Cup-winning jockeys, Mark Zahra and Jye McNeil, were involved in the incident but escaped serious injury. Zahra was treated and discharged from the hospital on Saturday afternoon, while McNeil spent the night under observation at The Alfred hospital. John Kanga, a former Melbourne Racing Club chairman and mentor to McNeil, expressed gratitude toward the hospital’s medical staff, noting that McNeil remained sore but in good spirits.

The accident occurred when Half Yours was trapped between Kings Valley and Zahraann, causing him to fall. Ohope Wins, ridden by Chris Waller’s team and a winner of the Australian Oaks and New Zealand Oaks earlier this year, then crashed over Half Yours. Despite prompt veterinary care, Ohope Wins was euthanized due to the severity of her injuries. Half Yours sustained cuts and abrasions but avoided major harm.

Owners Youlong Investments and trainers Chris Waller Racing issued a joint statement mourning the loss of Ohope Wins, describing her not only as a “true star of the turf” but also highlighting her character and the deep bond she shared with those who cared for her. They emphasized her bravery, kindness, and the significant breeding value she held following her success in two Group 1 Oaks races.

An adjourned stewards inquiry into the fall is scheduled to resume this week once Zahra and McNeil can provide testimony. On Saturday, the $6.5 million Caulfield Cup was won by Kingswood, trained by Gavin Bedggood and ridden by John Allen, who overcame a wide trip to defeat fellow grey Saint George, with Enjohair finishing third.

During the initial inquiry, stewards heard from jockeys Rachel King (Green Cross), Jabez Johnstone (Kings Valley), and Ethan Brown (Zahraann). Officials noted that Green Cross made multiple contacts with Kings Valley between the 350 and 300 meters marks, and that Zahraann raced in restricted room during the incident.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.