Sinkhole to Win: a Dramatic 12 days for Mr Changue
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Photo: Fort Erie Race Track
Mr Changue gets hosed off after his July 23 victory at Fort Erie
From falling into a sinkhole to racecourse success in the space of 12 days—that is the remarkable story of 6-year-old Mr Changue in Canada.
The Ken Albu-trained Mr Changue was grazing on the backstretch at Fort Erie July 11 when the ground gave way beneath him as a result of a water main break.
Audrey Albu, who trains Mr Changue with Ken, told CHCH News: "I heard this commotion so I headed out, and there he was in the ground. It was extremely scary.
"He was thrashing around, trying to jump out, but as he did that, the more his back end sank. He was very lucky to get out with just a few superficial cuts."
Racetrack workers and the Fort Erie fire department were quick to the scene, using ropes to hoist Mr Changue out of the hole.
Tom Valiquette, chief operating and financial officer of the Fort Erie Live Racing Consortium, said: "The safety of our horses is always a priority.
"We thank our horse people, staff, and local fire department for assisting in the safe rescue of one of our equine athletes."
Florida-bred Mr Changue, a son of Gottcha Gold owned by Sam Passero, landed a 6 1/2-furlong claimer July 23 under jockey Kirk Johnson on the undercard of the Prince Of Wales Stakes, the second leg of Canada's Ontario Lottery and Gaming Triple Crown.
His trainer posted on Facebook: "I really hope Fort Erie names a race 'The Changue Cup' now!"