Promising two-year-old racehorse trained by Gai Waterhouse drowns in bizarre swimming pool incident

A two-year-old racehorse tragically died after a freak accident at Sydney’s Randwick Racecourse on Tuesday.

King Kirk, who was trained by Gai Waterhouse and Adrian Bott, drowned in a horse pool while completing a routine recovery activity.

It came after the horse took part in a two-year-old 740m hurdle at Randwick, his home track.

The horse was a favorite to win the $5 million Golden Slipper next year and was making his first appearance since his debut in the Group Three Breeders’ Plate.

“Sadly, King Kirk passed away this afternoon following an incident that occurred during his recovery,” a statement from the Waterhouse and Bott stables told MyRacehorse owners.

‘King Kirk was routinely swimming in the horse pool at Randwick Racecourse under the supervision of his regular handler and foreman when he panicked, causing him to swallow a significant amount of water.

Two-year-old racehorse King Kirk has tragically died after drowning in a freak accident

The horse had completed a routine swim at Sydney’s Randwick Racecourse horse pool

Kirk was routinely swimming in the horse pool at Randwick Racecourses when he ‘panicked’ and drowned

‘Despite the best efforts of his handlers, ATC (Australian Turf Club), staff and vets, he unfortunately could not be saved.’

The news came after members of the racing syndicate released a statement earlier on Tuesday claiming he had returned in good health.

After the colt’s lawsuit, they went to MyRacehorse.com and said, “He seems to have come back in fantastic shape. He got it relatively easy, but it was great to see his maturity as he relaxed at the back during the run. Once he got some space, his foot movement to the line was electric under minimal driving.

‘He will probably have another trial in two weeks and he will make a lot of improvement from today’s performance.’

Nevertheless, a later message on MyRacehorse would also confirm the sad news.

“Our thoughts are with all of 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 all of us, but we take comfort in the memories of his achievements, his strength and his spirit.

“King Kirk will be greatly missed, but he will remain in our hearts forever.”