Winslow export Ciaron Maher equalled the record for the most Grand Annual Steeplechase wins when Ablaze, ridden by Warrnambool-based Irish jockey Shane Jackson, scooted away to win the famous race.

It was Maher's fifth victory since 2010, joining Kiwi John Wheeler as the most-prolific winners.

But instead of being the toast of a roaring crowd, there was just a couple of loud claps.

There were no joyous hugs from his mum Eileen and father John, who have watched his other four victories from the members' grandstand.

But his brother Declan, who oversees his Ballarat stable, was there.

"It was one of the most eerie days I've had on a racecourse, knowing there are normally thousands of people there and this year it was just like being at a jumps trial," Ciaron said. "No one there."

Declan and Shane Jackson each copped $300 fines for shaking hands after the win, breaching restrictions in place to protect the spread of coronavirus.

It was an emotional day for Ciaron, who earlier witnessed his mate, jockey Steven Pateman and promising jumper Sir Isaac Newton, crash in a maiden hurdle.

Pateman, one of two jockeys hospitalised during the historic all-jumps racing program, suffered concussion. The horse was euthanised.

Jockey Billy Gleeson was also taken to hospital with a suspected broken leg after a fall in the Brierly Steeplechase.

Racing Victoria said the incident involving Sir Isaac Newton had been referred to its Jumps Review Panel to consider the circumstances and any potential safety enhancements.

The horse's death prompted animal activists to renew calls for the sport to be banned.

Coalition for the Protection of Race Horses campaign director Elio Celotto accused the state government of "once again having blood on its hands".

"We continue to call on the state government to ban the sport," he said.

Animal Justice Party MP Andy Meddick urged south-west residents to write to local MPs and the Racing Minister to demand the sport be banned.

Police maintained a visible presence around the course perimeter to ensure racing enthusiasts did not breach COVID-19 social restrictions.

Today's Warrnambool Cup feature will also be closed to the public and police will be out in force.

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