Cox Plate Winner Sir Dragonet Euthanized After Injury
Image:
Description:
Photo: Grant Guy
Sir Dragonet takes the Tancred Stakes at Rosehill Gardens
Sir Dragonet , winner of the Ladbrokes Cox Plate (G1) in 2020 at Moonee Valley in Australia, broke down during an Oct. 16 workout and was euthanized, according to a tweet from co-trainer Ciaron Maher.
A 5-year-old son of Camelot , Sir Dragonet initially raced in Europe for trainer Aidan O'Brien for Coolmore-affiliated owners Mrs. John Magnier, Michael Tabor, and Derrick Smith before he became a successful Australian-campaigned runner for different connections. He raced there for owners Ozzie Kheir, John O'Neill and others, while trained by Maher and David Eustace.
It is with great sadness to report that Cox Plate champion Sir Dragonet has been euthanised after tragically breaking down in a track gallop this morning.
The MVRC passes on its condolences to @cmaherracing and all connections.
Forever remembered as a Cox Plate champion… pic.twitter.com/S4MXfDpvFX— Moonee Valley Racing Club (@TheValley) October 15, 2021
In addition to his win last October in the Cox Plate, Australia's premier middle-distance weight-for-age feature, he ran a creditable sixth in the Lexus Melbourne Cup (G1). This year he captured the Kia Tancred Stakes (G1) at Rosehill. His final race was a sixth-place finish in the TAB Turnbull Stakes (G1) at Flemington Oct. 2.
"In the year that the Dragon has been in our care, he has won our hearts with his exploits both on and off the track," read a portion of a statement Maher tweeted. "Our condolences go out to his owners, connections, and all who cared for this wonderful horse.
"It has left a hole in our hearts but we're forever thankful for our time with him and he will forever remain a Cox Plate Champion. Rest easy Dragon."