George Washington Tragedy Overshadows The Breeders Cup
While many had been eagerly awaiting the Breeders Cup Classic horse race at Monmouth Park, USA on Saturday, what had promised to be a real classic turned to disaster shortly after Curlin passed the winning post. Further behind on the track UK favourite George Washington had broken down, after breaking two small bones in his ankle. Unfortunately the horse could not be saved, and was humanely put out of its misery by the on-course vet. A tragic end to one of horse racings true superstars…..
George Washington was foaled at the famous Coolmore Stud, with a blood line which included champion Danehill and Bordighera. While the horse was a great favourite of UK horse racing fans, it was actually owned by US pair Roy and Gretchen Jackon, earning them over £700,000 in prize money alone.
“Gorgeous” George as he was fondly known by the racing fraternity started his career on 1st May 2005 at Newmarket, and while he finished third, it was soon to become clear that he was destined for greater heights. As a two year old, victories soon followed, and while he was held back for the big races he always seemed to perform on the day. While some started to doubt his credentials after a narrow win in the National Stakes in September of 2005, “George” soon bounced back to take the 2,000 Guineas in 2006.
September 2006 saw George Washington head for his top target, the Queen Elizabeth II Stakes at Ascot, and with heavy rain on the day many thought his best chance had gone. He drifted in the betting in the morning, but just prior to the race a great wave of money was placed on the fans favourite. After an eventful race which saw a number of horses tangle with each other, “Gorgeous” George strode effortlessly by them to take the winning post by some margin. His position at the top table was now secured!
While many blame the muddy track on the day of the Breeders Cup for his fatal injury, it is clear that racing has lost one of the great characters, a horse with a never say die attitude, one which seemed to revel in proving people wrong when written off, a true champion.