Arrogate Horse Cause of Death: The Tragic End of a Champion

Arrogate, one of the greatest racehorses of all time, died on June 2, 2020, at the age of seven. The cause of his death was a mysterious neurological illness that baffled his veterinarians and left his fans heartbroken. In this article, we will look at the life and achievements of Arrogate, the symptoms and diagnosis of his illness, and the legacy he left behind.

Arrogate’s Racing Career

Arrogate was a gray horse bred in Kentucky by Clearsky Farms. He was bought by Juddmonte Farms, the racing operation of Prince Khalid Abdullah, for $560,000 at the 2014 Keeneland September Yearling Sale. He was sent into training with Bob Baffert in California.

Arrogate did not debut until April of his 3-year-old year, but he quickly showed his talent and potential. He won five consecutive races, including the Travers Stakes, where he broke a 36-year-old track record for 1 1/4 miles, and the Breeders’ Cup Classic, where he beat the 2016 Horse of the Year California Chrome. He was named the American Champion Three-Year-Old Male Horse and the World’s Best Racehorse of 2016.

He continued his dominance in his 4-year-old season, winning the inaugural Pegasus World Cup in a new track record and the Dubai World Cup, where he came from last to first in a stunning performance. He became the richest North American racehorse in history with earnings of $17,422,600. However, he suffered three straight defeats in his later races and retired with a record of seven wins from 11 starts. He was inducted into the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame in 2023.

Arrogate’s Illness and Death

Arrogate was standing his third breeding season at Juddmonte Farms when he developed an apparent neurological issue in his neck. He was unable to stand up and was taken to Hagyard Equine Medical Institute for treatment. The veterinarians performed various tests, including a spinal tap, X-ray, ultrasound, CT scan, and blood tests, but they could not find the cause of his illness. He developed serious secondary health problems and was euthanized after four days of struggle.

The exact cause of Arrogate’s illness and death is still unknown. Some possible causes that have been ruled out are equine herpesvirus, West Nile virus, rabies, botulism, and trauma. Some speculated that he might have had a rare condition called equine protozoal myeloencephalitis (EPM), which is caused by a parasite that infects the central nervous system. However, this has not been confirmed by the official necropsy report, which is expected to be released soon.

Arrogate’s Legacy

Arrogate’s death was a huge loss for the racing industry and the fans. He was widely regarded as one of the best racehorses of his generation and one of the most exciting horses to watch. He had a remarkable turn of foot and a will to win that made him overcome any challenge. He was also a gentle and kind horse who loved his people and his job.

Arrogate’s legacy lives on through his offspring, who are expected to inherit his talent and spirit. He sired 173 foals in his three breeding seasons, and his first crop of 2-year-olds are already showing promise on the track. His son, Life Is Good, won the Sham Stakes and the San Felipe Stakes and was the early favorite for the Kentucky Derby before being sidelined by an injury. His daughter, Beautiful Gift, won the Santa Ysabel Stakes and finished second in the Santa Anita Oaks. His other progeny include stakes winners Obligatory, Flashiest, and Crystal Ball.

Arrogate will always be remembered as a champion who gave his all on the racetrack and a friend who touched many hearts. He was a horse of a lifetime, and his story will inspire generations to come.

Doms Desk

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