There was a tragic conclusion to the June 19th At Sligo Mares Maiden Hurdle at Sligo today when winner Lough Donnell Mist collapsed and died shortly after pulling up.

Ridden by Danny Howard, the daughter of Presenting readily justified 9/4 favouritism when staying on well to record a comfortable 10 lengths win over Theonewiththeleg

However, shortly after pulling up and when walking back along the walkway, Lough Donnell Mist started to wobble and afterwards collapsed and died. The cause of her death is not yet known but a heart attack is suspected.

Both Howard and winning trainer Quin, Co Clare based Malachy (P.J.F.) Hassett had been out in 'the cold' in recent times but were recording their fourth wins together since December, with Lough Donnell Mist.

Howard, who steered Puntal to win the 2004 renewal of the Betfred Gold Cup at Sandown for trainer Martin Pipe, left his race-riding take a back-seat after 2008 and has only returned to the saddle in recent times.

Howard and Hassett have combined in recent months to win three races with Archie Meade, including a valuable handicap at the Fairyhouse Festival.