JOCKEY Robert “Hardball” Halledeen narrowly escaped serious injury after a dramatic fall from his mount, Equinox, during the running of eighth race on Saturday, February 15, 2025.

The incident occurred as Equinox was about to enter the straight, coming off the bend, in the challenging, five-furlong-round (1,000m) contest. Suddenly, the horse suffered a catastrophic injury, breaking its right leg and sending Halledeen tumbling to the ground.

The fall was met with collective gasps from the crowd, and initial concerns suggested a potentially severe outcome for Halledeen. However, after receiving medical attention it was confirmed that the seasoned jockey had miraculously escaped major injury.

Halledeen reported feeling sore the following morning but, fortunately, no significant damage was detected. While shaken by the incident, Halledeen is expected to make a full recovery.

Tragically, Equinox’s injuries were fatal, and the horse was humanely euthanised.