Tragically, Grahame Begg’s group winning sprinter Rose Quartz passed away over the weekend due to complications from colic, leaving the racing community in mourning.
The six-year-old mare, sired by Written Tycoon, had an impressive career, capturing five victories and accumulating $619,090 in prize money. Among her notable achievements was a thrilling win in the G3 How Now Stakes, a standout moment in her 20-start journey on the racetrack.
Rose Quartz’s final race appearance was in the Magic Millions Sprint on the Gold Coast in January, where she finished a commendable third. She was poised to make her return in the Bel Esprit Stakes on March 18 before succumbing to colic.
Grahame Begg expressed his sorrow over the sudden loss, stating, “She got colic and we had to perform surgery, but unfortunately, she didn’t pull through. It’s a devastating loss for us all. She underwent surgery, and although she initially showed signs of recovery, she tragically didn’t make it.”
Reflecting on Rose Quartz’s potential future, Begg remarked, “It’s a heartbreaking loss, particularly considering her bright future. She would have been a valuable asset in the broodmare sales later this year.”
