Tragic end for Desert Crown, victorious in the Derby, as horse euthanized due to severe injury
Desert Crown’s Tragic End: A Champion Lost Too Soon
In a heart-wrenching turn of events, Desert Crown, the glorious victor of last year’s Derby at Epsom, has met an untimely demise. The talented colt, trained by the renowned Sir Michael Stoute, suffered a devastating injury during his training gallops in August and was ultimately put down.
Last June marked Desert Crown’s triumph as he clinched his sixth victory in the esteemed blue riband Classic. However, after that momentous win, fate dealt him a cruel blow. Besieged by setbacks throughout his career, this brave steed only managed to grace the track once more.
The stallion encountered an unfortunate setback which halted his racing ambitions for the rest of the previous season. Although he did make a valiant return to compete in this year’s Brigadier Gerard Stakes, regrettably Hukum tarnished his unbeaten record.
A minor setback forced him to withdraw from participating in the prestigious King George VI And Queen Elizabeth Stakes. Unfortunately for Desert Crown and all those who held hope for his triumphant comeback, tragedy struck while he was being prepared for the Juddmonte International at York.
Amidst preparations for what should have been another awe-inspiring performance on the racetrack, disaster struck when Desert Crown sustained a fractured fetlock. Despite initial efforts to save him and secure a future as a valuable stud horse, it is with heavy hearts we share that he lost his battle on Monday at Newmarket Equine Hospital.
“There are no words sufficient enough to express our profound sadness,” shared Philip Robinson, assistant racing manager to owner Saeed Suhail. “Every possible measure was taken to save him; initially there seemed some progress but unfortunately it was short-lived.”
With the weight of the animal bearing down on his injured leg, the pressure proved insurmountable. Despite utilizing supportive measures for his leg, it became clear that Desert Crown needed to stand on his own. The resources and expertise available to him were unparalleled anywhere in the world.
Robinson continued, “He was an extraordinary horse and his Derby win will forever be etched in our memories as a truly remarkable day. It is devastating he didn’t make it through this ordeal.”
The racing community mourns the loss of Desert Crown, a true champion who captivated hearts with his undeniable talent and indomitable spirit. His legacy will endure as a testament to what can be achieved against all odds within the realm of thoroughbred racing.