I have only just come across an "official" statement concerning Fairyland’s sad end yesterday. It’s part of a Racing Post piece about her trainer (Nicky Henderson) today breaking his record of winners for a season.
Henderson’s assistant, Tom Symonds, said: "We’ve had a terrific season despite the terrible weather over the winter, and a terrific Cheltenham with three winners.
"The one really sad happening this week was the loss of Fairyland, who unfortunately broke a leg yesterday in the conditional jockeys’ hurdle."
When I watched the replay today the commentator said both horses were cantering away – he obviously didn’t spot Fairyland’s broken leg at that point – so I thought maybe she was OK afterall. It’s disappointing when they can’t correct info like this. Sad loss of a mare who may have gone on to breed something nice.