(TheRedWire.com) – The world of professional horse racing is highly competitive, and the stakes are high. For example, in 2019, betters waged over $165 million on the Kentucky Derby. In May 2021, the first-place finisher of the historic race won $1.86 million. Three-year-old colt Medina Spirit managed to win that race despite 12 to 1 odds, but not without some controversy. A week after Medina Spirit won the Kentucky Derby, the prized horse failed a drug test that called the legitimacy of the win into question.
Medina Spirit, controversial Kentucky Derby winner, dead after track workout https://t.co/YHgOqnaT2f pic.twitter.com/G1kOv8kuAT
— New York Post (@nypost) December 6, 2021
On Monday, December 6, Medina Spirit worked out at a facility located in Santa Anita Park in California. After the workout, the horse suddenly collapsed. Tragically the recent champion died. The California Horse Racing Board determined that a heart attack caused the horse’s sudden death. Veterinarians collected blood, hair, and urine so the California Racing Board could conduct further testing. Officials said they expected the results at a later, but undetermined date.
Owner Amr Zedan said that Medina Spirit’s death was quick and noted the racehorse didn’t suffer. He added that champion gave him, the jockeys, and the fans the ride of a lifetime.
Medina Spirit last raced November 6, finishing in second place in the Breeder’s Cup Classic.
Copyright 2021, TheRedWire.com
