Connections of talented three-year-old Kapoor were dealt a crushing blow yesterday morning when the filly shattered a fetlock during a gallop and was humanely euthanised.
The high-class daughter of Reliable Man had been on target for Saturday's Group 1 New Zealand Oaks (2400m) after a strong fourth in the Group3 Sunline Vase (2100m) last start.
"It's absolutely devastating," trainer John Bell said.
"She was just working so brilliantly and was a beautiful filly.
"She was so brave and always gave everything. She had an amazing walk on her and I bought her for some friends. Everything about her was just so positive."
Kapoor was stakes-placed on three occasions, finishing runner-up in the Group 2 Eight Carat Classic (1600m), listed Trevor Eagle Memorial (1500m) and listed Soliloquy Stakes (1400m).
She was also promoted to fourth in the Karaka Million 3YO Classic (1600m) after suffering significant interference.
"There were a few rides where things never really panned out and she was hammered in the million-dollar race and never had any luck whatsoever."
While Bell was making plans to have Kapoor buried on his property, he has also opted to spell exciting sprinter Julius.
"We've turned him out as there's nothing left for him and we'll concentrate on next season," he said.
A patiently-handled six-year-old, Julius has won six of his 10 starts and is yet to finish out of the placings.
The son of Swiss Ace was an ultra-impressive last-start winner of the Group 3 Darley Stallions Plate (1200m) at Ellerslie.
"He's in a paddock on rolling country so he won't put on too much condition. He's a big horse and you have to be careful with him, but he has Group 1 talent."
