Tragedy as early Golden Slipper favorite DIES in freak training accident: ‘Devastating loss’

The racing world is in shock following the tragic death of Golden Slipper favorite King Kirk, who died after a freak training accident in a Randwick swimming pool on Tuesday.

The highly rated colt, trained by Gai Waterhouse and Adrian Bott, was recovering from training in a horse pool when the shocking incident occurred.

“Sadly, King Kirk passed away this afternoon as a result of an incident that occurred during his recovery,” a press release said.

‘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.

“Despite the best efforts of his handlers, ATC [Australian Turf Club]staff and veterinarians, unfortunately he could not be saved.’

The stable also issued a statement on the tragic incident: ‘This is an incredibly difficult time for everyone involved as we mourn the loss of this hugely talented colt.

Rated King Kirk drowned during a recovery session in Randwick

King Kirk was the early favorite for next year’s Golden Slipper

“It is a heartbreaking loss not only for his ownership group, but for the entire team of Gai Waterhouse and Adrian Bott, and our thoughts go out to everyone who had the privilege of working with and supporting King Kirk during his career. He will be greatly missed.”

Top jockey Tim Clark said the horse would ‘become a force in the Magic Millions’ next month.

“It was very disturbing news to come through, and I sympathize with all the staff and connections, and everyone involved,” Clark said.

‘I tried him out in the morning and he felt like he was doing really well and would play a big part in the Magic Millions, but shocking news and condolences to everyone involved.’

The talented colt was purchased for a $300,000 yearling at the Magic Millions sale in Queensland earlier this year.

The two-year-old won the $250,000 Group 3 Breeders Plate at Randwick in October, prompting bookmakers to put him at the top of the market for the Golden Slipper in March.

Racing fans were stunned by the shocking news.

‘Terrible news. I was actually really excited about this horse, especially after his test this morning where he was excellent,” one X user posted.

According to the stable, the horse panicked and swallowed a significant amount of water while swimming

“Devastating loss,” another replied.

‘Tragic news from Randwick today. Vale King Kirk’ posted a third.

‘Vale King Kirk. My heart is broken,” wrote another.

The heartbroken owners later shared an emotional tribute to their horse.

“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.”