Cheltenham Festival 2024: Highland Hunter dies after nasty fall

A horse has died at Cheltenham Festival after suffering a fatal injury in the Ultima Handicap Chase.

Race officials confirmed that Highland Hunter had to be put down on day one of the festival. The legendary horse fell during the third race of Tuesday’s action and was later announced as dead.

Trainer Fergal O'Brien wrote on X, formally Twitter: "Not sure we’ll be tweeting again today after this. Absolutely devastated. Thanks for the messages we’re already receiving and those to come."

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While a statement from ITV read: “Highland Hunter has sadly passed away after suffering a fatal injury in the Ultima Handicap. Our thoughts are with connections at this difficult time.”

The race was won by Chianti Classico, who produced a smooth round of jumping for David Bass and Kim Bailey. “It meant a lot, it’s actually quite a good feeling to win here," Bass told ITV Sport.

"It’s a privilege to ride these horses. It’s hard to win here though – 2020 was the last time and it’s been too long.”

In the last decade, British Racing has invested more than £20m into veterinary activities, including research and education. The governing body also has self-imposed and enforced welfare standards, which they say exceed national animal welfare legislation.