Kingscote Honors Desert Crown, the Victorious Hero of Derby

Richard Kingscote Pays Heartfelt Tribute to Desert Crown

In a heartbreaking turn of events, last year’s Derby winner, Desert Crown, was put down on Monday. Richard Kingscote, who had recently parted ways with Tom Dascombe to ride for Sir Michael Stoute when Ryan Moore was unavailable in August 2021, shared his heartfelt tribute to the talented horse.

Kingscote first partnered with Desert Crown in its debut victory at Nottingham three months after joining forces with Sir Michael Stoute. The Nathaniel colt impressed everyone during its comeback race in the Dante Stakes at York the following May and headed to the Derby as the favorite.

The race at Epsom showcased Desert Crown’s extraordinary talent as it effortlessly cruised through the track and emerged as one of the most exceptional winners in recent years. Unfortunately, this would be its penultimate appearance on a racetrack due to recurring injuries that eventually took their toll.

Taking to social media platform,s Kingscote expressed his sorrow for both Sir Michael Stoute’s staff who cherished Desert Crown and racing fans who will forever wonder about what could have been. He admitted that words cannot fully capture just how amazing this racehorse truly was:

“I have been asked about my thoughts on Desert Crown a few times.

Firstly I’m most sorry for the staff at Sir Michael’s who adored him and are all heartbroken.

Secondly, I’m sorry to racing fans in that we will never get to see how brilliant he could have been. And that I don’t have the vocabulary to explain how amazing he was.

I will always be grateful to him for looking after me on those two big days last summer; he was a gentleman and an awesome racehorse.

I feel blessed and somewhat embarrassed that it was me who got to experience his brilliance. RIP DC.”

This heart-wrenching loss leaves us all wondering about the unfathomable potential Desert Crown possessed. The horse’s remarkable performances on the track last year were a testament to its exceptional abilities.

We extend our deepest sympathies not only to Sir Michael Stoute’s team but also to racing fans around the world who had eagerly anticipated witnessing this extraordinary talent continue its journey towards greatness.