Arcadius is loaded into a trailer after collapsing and dying as he was being cooled down after winning the $150,000 Iroquois Steeplechase horse race at Percy Warner Park, Saturday, May 12, 2012, in Nashville, Tenn. (George Walker IV- AP Photo/The Tennessean)
(AP) NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Arcadius collapsed and died as he was being cooled down after winning the $150,000 Iroquois Steeplechase at Percy Warner Park on Saturday.
The 8-year-old gelding collapsed at a station placed just beyond the finish line of the 3-mile race.
Dr. Marty McInturff, one of five official veterinarians on the course, said Arcadius succumbed from “a heart attack” and a possible aneurysm. The results of a necropsy examination are expected Monday at the earliest.
The bay gelding raced for the Hudson River Farm of Saratoga Springs, N.Y., real estate executive Edward Swyer and Hall of Fame trainer Jonathan Sheppard. Arcadius was making his second start this season and the 21st of his career dating to 2008. During that time, he won six races, including the $100,000 Helen Haskell Simpson at Monmouth Park in 2010.
The $90,000 winner’s share of the Iroquois purse raised Arcadius’ career earnings past $300,000. Continue reading >>
