Three-time Group 1 winning four-year-old Riff Rocket has been humanly euthanised due to complications post-operation from colic surgery a week ago.
Trainer Chris Waller took to his official X/Twitter account to confirm the news in a statement that read in part:
“It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Riff Rocket, following complications arising from his colic surgery.
“This is an incredibly difficult time for everyone involved, as we mourn the loss of not just a magnificent racehorse, but also an extraordinary animal who made an incredible impact on Australian racing.
“This is a heartbreaking loss not only for the Kepitis family, but also for the entire team at Chris Waller Racing. Riff Rocket will forever hold a special place in our hearts, remembered for the fighting spirit he displayed both on the racetrack and in his final days.”
Riff Rocket accumulated $3.5 million in his 12-start career, including an unprecedented achievement, claiming the Group 1 Rosehill Guineas (2000m) and Group 1 ATC Derby (2400m) in back-to-back starts in the autumn.
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