Two-year-old filly Watershed Moment had a debut to remember at Del Mar – and horse racing fans won’t forget in a hurry either. That’s after the American newcomer pulverised a set of railings after she was all but set to win.
The inexperienced filly rounded the final bend in California on Friday looking all but certain to win the one-mile race. However, things quickly took a literal turn for the worse when she suddenly veered to the left.
Apprentice jockey Armando Ayuso was helpless but to desperately cling on as his ride rattled through plastic with relative ease. And the result was a chaotic scene as debris was left strewn across the American track.
Watershed Moment unsurprisingly failed to place from her 12/1 odds despite looking like a winner coming into the home stretch. But fans were quick to praise the racing innovation that meant both jockey and horse came out of the incident unscathed.
“An example of the plastic running rails helping keep horses and riders safe,” wrote one spectator in praise of the facilities. And another fan nodded in agreement, replying: “Definitely a better option.”
“Thank goodness this came out looking a lot better than it could’ve been,” chimed a third viewer. “And also every track needs this rail for the grass.”
“Agreed! Was watching this race and it could have been disastrous for the horse and jockey without that breakaway rail,” replied another advocate.
Others were also quick to laud the efforts of jockey Ayuso, who managed to keep control of Watershed Moment after a moment of peril. It’s a miracle nobody was hurt amid the scenes, and that was largely thanks to the calm head of the rider in question.
The filly’s loss proved to be the gain of long shot Ce La Vi Charli, who won despite being the greater underdog in the field. The 25/1 shot took over late on to win by half a length and get her own career ignited in triumphant fashion.
As for Watershed Moment, it would be an understatement to say it’s back to the drawing board before she’s back on the track. However, the daughter of Rebel Stakes-winner Omaha Beach will have no shortage of lessons to learn from her first taste of competitive action.