AUSTRALIAN event rider Sam Griffiths’ mount Favorit Z has been put down after he broke his leg on the cross-country course at Tattersalls International Horse Trials today.

Leading The Irish Field CCI*** after dressage, the 10-year-old bay gelding was jointly owned by Griffiths and Sue Brendish.

Confirming the news on his social media account, Griffiths wrote: “Today was a very sad day for us all, our beautiful Frodo (Favorit Z) broke his leg on the cross country at Tattersalls and had to be put to sleep.

“We are all devastated. He was the most exceptional horse- incredibly talented, stunningly beautiful and above all the nicest person, so gentle and kind.

“Today we lost a dear friend and we are left with a huge hole in our hearts. RIP darling Frodo. Xxx.”

The Australian pair had defied blustery conditions at Tattersalls on Thursday to produce a sparkling test and earn a score of 36.1 from the ground jury.

A statement from Tattersalls said Favorit Z stumbled and fell after jumping a triple brush at fence 12B, resulting in a broken leg.He was immediately attended to by on-course veterinary staff and put to sleep.

"The organisers of Tattersalls International Horse Trials would like to express their sympathy to the owner and rider of Favorit Z," it continued.

Favorit Z had completed CIC*** events at Burnham Market, Blenheim, Barbury Castle and Boekelo, finishing fifth at Blenheim in the CIC*** for eight and nine-year-old horses in September last year.

Eventing fans and fellow event riders have been expressing their condolences to Griffiths and the team around Favorit Z on social media this evening.