Grand Prairie claims Up And Coming Stakes amid frightening fall

Peter Snowden’s Grand Prairie landed the Up And Coming Stakes, but celebrations were muted after a serious incident marred the finish.

Approaching the 300m, James McDonald on Providence and Tom Sherry aboard the winner both pushed for the same gap as leaders Crown The King and Aerodrome shifted. The squeeze forced Providence inwards onto Tyreek, who crashed through the running rail.

Jockey Dylan Gibbons escaped major injury, walking back to the rooms, while Tyreek was transported to Randwick Equine Centre with a leg injury.

Snowden praised his colt but sympathised with Tyreek’s connections.

“He’s done a good job and he deserved a nice race,” Snowden said. “I’m glad he’s won. It was just unfortunate with the incident today.”

Snowden removed winkers from Grand Prairie’s gear to help him relax at his first run beyond 1200m, a move that paid off.

The trainer is yet to lock in spring targets but indicated the Golden Rose remains under consideration.

Stewards have opened an inquiry into the fall.

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