Champion mare Winx loses her first foal

The wonder mare, rated the best horse in the world during her recent record-breaking career, was in foal to I Am Invincble and is believed to have been paddocked in the Hunter Valley.

Connections of Winx released the sad news on Tuesday. She lost the foal overnight.

She had a "beautiful filly" in utero.

A statement released by Winx's former trainer Chris Waller on behalf of connections (ownership group of the Kepitis, Tighe and Treweeke families) on Tuesday afternoon confirmed the devastating news.

"It is with great sadness that the Kepitis, Tighe and Treweeke families wish to inform everyone that unfortunately overnight Winx lost her foal," the statement read.

"There are so many people involved in the Winx story from owners, staff past and present to her many fans around the world. Our thoughts and attention at the moment are on Winx, ensuring that she remains healthy, as anyone in this situation would respect.

"It is a traumatic time for a mother and those involved and Winx is now the centre of our attention following the loss of a beautiful filly this morning.

"We wish to thank everyone for their support and understanding, please respect the connections during this sad time and we will update you as soon as appropriate."

Winx won 33 races in a row and holds the world record for most Group One wins. She raced 43 times for 37 wins and 3 second placings, with 25 Group One wins (World Record) and finished out of the placings on just three occasions.

Dunedoo-raised jockey Hugh Bowman rode her for all her wins except her first win. The pair are honoured in large mural on the silos at Dunedoo along with her trainer Chris Waller.