- Promising racehorse dies in freak accident in horse pool
- King Kirk drowned at Randwick after panicking in the water
- Colt was highly-rated and the favourite for Golden Slipper
The racing world is in shock after the tragic death of Golden Slipper favourite King Kirk, which 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 has passed away this afternoon following an incident that occurred during his recovery,’ a press release stated.
‘King Kirk was routinely swimming at the Randwick racecourse horse pool under the supervision of his regular handler and foreman when he panicked causing him to swallow a significant amount of water in the process.
‘Despite the efforts by his handlers, ATC [Australian Turf Club], staff and veterinarians, he sadly could not be saved.’
The stable also made a statement about the tragic incident: ‘This is an incredibly difficult time for everyone involved, as we mourn the loss of this immensely talented colt.
‘It 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 go out to 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 to come through, and I feel for all the staff and connections, and everyone involved,’ Clark said.
‘I actually trialled him in the morning, and he felt like he was going really good and was going to be a force in the Magic Millions, but shocking news, and condolences to all involved.’
The talented colt was a $300,000 yearling purchase 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, which had bookies placing him at the top of the markets for the Golden Slipper in March.
Racing fans were left stunned by the shocking news.
‘Terrible news. Was actually really excited by this horse, especially after his trial this morning where he was excellent,’ posted one X user.
‘Devastating loss,’ replied another.
‘Tragic news out of Randwick today. Vale King Kirk,’ posted a third.
‘Vale King Kirk. My heart is broken,’ posted another.
The heartbroken owners later shared an emotional tribute to their horse.
‘Our thoughts are with all you, his owners, who loved and supported him, and with the stable staff who cared for him with such dedication 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 us all, but we take comfort in the memories of his achievements, his strength, and his spirit.
‘King Kirk will be deeply missed, but he will remain in our hearts forever.’
