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Steel Prince, a two-time Melbourne Cup runner, has died in tragic circumstances at Eagle Farm in Brisbane after suffering a suspected heart attack during a race.
The accomplished stayer jumped favourite in Saturday’s group 3 Premier’s Cup, but shortly after the start, he threw jockey Nash Rawiller to the ground and collapsed in the home straight in front of the St Leger Stand.
Steel Prince, ridden by Jye McNeil, won the 2020 the Geelong Cup and raced twice in the Melbourne Cup.Credit:Getty Images
Rawiller was reported to have cradled Steel Prince’s head, before on-course vets made the decision to euthanise the eight-year-old.
“It’s tough, really, for the whole stable,” co-trainer Sam Freedman said, choking back tears.
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“He’s been an amazing horse for the whole stable and his owners and sadly, had a heart attack coming out of the gates.
“He looked after the rider coming out. It’s not easy.”
The Anthony and Sam Freedman-trained galloper had a prolific career, winning 10 of 35 races and more than $1.15 million in prizemoney.
The son of Nathaniel started his career in Ireland, before he was brought to Australia to be trained by Darren Weir.