Much-loved champion dies in ‘shocking turn of events’

by Admin
September 11, 2024

Beloved galloper Cepheus has died after suffering an injury during trackwork.

The sad news was confirmed by OTI Racing in a heartbreaking statement on Wednesday.

Cepheus was one of the favourites for this year’s $3 million Big Dance after placing second in the race last year (while carrying the top weight) and winning this year’s South Grafton Cup (with 62.5kg) to again qualify for the Royal Randwick event.

Know the news with the 7NEWS app: Download today

With star jockey Nash Rawiller regularly on his back, the eight-year-old “warhorse” had won over $2 million in prize money for connections and trainer Matt Dunn.

His most recent victory came in August in the Rowley Mile at Hawkesbury.

“We’re saddened to confirm the loss of Cepheus,” OTI Racing said on social media, after the horse was euthanised.

Nash Rawiller and Cepheus after a victory at Rosehill Gardens in March last year. Credit: Getty Images

“We feel for all connected with this special horse, our co-owners and in particular Matt Dunn and the whole team at Matt Dunn Racing

“We will miss seeing him in action with Nash Rawiller on board and will remember him as the true warhorse that he was. 💙🕊️.”

Rawiller also paid tribute to Cepheus, a horse he had ridden 10 times.

“RIP Old War Horse,” he wrote, while posting a picture of himself on the back of Cepheus.

Fans and industry types were shattered by the news.

“How devastating. RIP big boy,” wrote racing enthusiast Emma Woodridge.

While Bryan Martin from BMR Racing Club said: “Very sorry to hear this news. Thoughts with the stable staff and owners of this very brave horse.”

Seven reporter Emily Riordan: “Sorry to hear. What a warhorse he’s been for all connections.”

And another enthusiast said: “Very sad news, heartfelt sympathies to all connections.”

A fan said:“Fly high big boy. Courageous and tough a beautiful animal,”

And another said in response to Rawiller’s tribute: “Gee mate, after listening to you on radio yesterday about your spring rides, you must be absolutely shattered … Shocking turn of events. Poor bugger.”

Earlier on Wednesday morning, Racing NSW said Dunn had notified them about the injury during trackwork.

Wagering operators were then told to immediately remove Cepheus from all feature race betting markets for the Spring Carnival, including The Big Dance.