The Gong winner Count De RupeeĀ has died following a suspected heart attack during a jump-out at Kembla Grange.
Trainers Robert and Luke Price confirmed the tragic loss of their stable star on Facebook, saying he was not only an outstanding racehorse but a treasured part of their lives.
“We are beyond devastated on the loss of our star boy this morning. He was not only a star on the track but also off it with his beautiful kind nature,” they said on their Price Racing page.
“Our thoughts and condolences to his owners and all our staff for all their care, love and dedication to our Jimmy.
“RIP beautiful boy, we will miss you dearly.”
The five-year-old was being partnered by Tommy BerryĀ in the Wednesday morning hitout and while the top jockey was uninjured, Berry was understandably upset and stood himself down from his rides at the midweek Kensington meeting.
Count De Rupee raced 21 times for seven wins and more than $2.5 million in prizemoney.
Along with his memorable victory in last year’s The Gong, he captured the Group 2 Victory Stakes (1200m) during the Queensland winter carnival and was runner-up to I’m Thunderstruck in the 2021 Golden Eagle (1500m).
