- Promising racehorse dies in freak accident at horse pool
- King Kirk drowned at Randwick after panicking in the water
- Colt was highly rated and the favorite for Golden Slipper
The racing world is in shock after the tragic death of Golden Slipper favorite King Kirk, who died after a freak training accident in a pool at Randwick on Tuesday.
The highly rated colt, trained by Gai Waterhouse and Adrian Bott, was recovering from a training run in a horse pool when the shocking incident occurred.
“Unfortunately, King Kirk passed away this afternoon following an incident that occurred during his recovery,” a press release stated.
‘King Kirk was regularly swimming in the horse pool at Randwick Racecourse under the supervision of his usual supervisor and foreman when he panicked, causing him to swallow a significant amount of water in the process.
“Despite the efforts of his keepers, the ATC (Australian Turf Club), staff and veterinarians, sadly he could not be saved.”
The stable also made a statement regarding the tragic incident: “This is an incredibly difficult time for everyone involved, as we mourn the loss of this immensely talented colt.
Highly regarded King Kirk drowned during recovery session at Randwick
King Kirk was the early favorite for next year’s Golden Slipper
“This is a heartbreaking loss not only for his ownership group, but also for the entire team at Gai Waterhouse and Adrian Bott, and our thoughts are with all those who had the privilege of working with and supporting King Kirk during his career. He will be greatly missed. ”.
Top jockey Tim Clark said the horse was “going to be a force in the Magic Millions” next month.
“It was very distressing news and I feel sorry for all the staff and connections and everyone involved,” Clark said.
“I actually tested him in the morning and he felt like he was doing very well and was going to be a force at the Magic Millions, but shocking news and condolences to everyone involved.”
The talented colt was purchased as a yearling for $300,000 earlier this year at the Magic Millions sales in Queensland.
The two-year-old won the $250,000 Group 3 Breeders Plate at Randwick in October, prompting bookmakers to place him at the top of the markets for the Golden Slipper in March.
Racing fans were stunned by the shocking news.
‘Terrible news. “I was actually very excited about this horse, especially after his test this morning where he was excellent,” one X user posted.
The stable said the horse panicked and ingested a significant amount of water while swimming.
“Devastating loss,” responded another.
Tragic news comes from Randwick today. Okay King Kirk,” posted a third.
‘Okay King Kirk. “My heart is broken,” posted another.
The heartbroken owners later shared a touching tribute to their horse.
“Our thoughts are with all of you, his owners, who loved and supported him, and with the stable staff who cared for him so lovingly every day,” the statement read.
‘We know how much this loss will weigh on everyone and we are here to support you in any way we can.
‘Today is a difficult day for all of us, but we are comforted by the memory of your achievements, your strength and your spirit.
“King Kirk will be deeply missed, but he will remain in our hearts forever.”