Tragic news emerged on Nov. 26 as King Kirk, a promising racehorse trained by Gai Waterhouse and Adrian Bott, passed away following a swimming pool accident at Randwick Racecourse. The incident occurred during a routine recovery session after the Breeders’ Plate (G3) winner had participated in a barrier trial earlier in the day.
According to a statement from the Waterhouse and Bott stable, King Kirk panicked while swimming under the supervision of his regular handler and foreman. The unexpected reaction caused the horse to ingest a large amount of water, and despite the swift efforts of handlers, Australian Turf Club staff, and veterinarians, the colt could not be saved.
King Kirk was a notable talent, having been purchased for AU$300,000 from Widden Stud’s draft at the Magic Millions Gold Coast Yearling Sale. Owned by Belmont Bloodstock and MyRacehorse, he was the first foal out of Nicconi mare Oxford Angel. The chestnut had already achieved a significant milestone by winning the Breeders’ Plate in September and accumulating AU$141,000 in earnings.
Under jockey Rachel King, King Kirk had displayed immense potential, including a trial victory over standout performer Tempestuous. He was viewed as a leading contender for the prestigious AU$5 million Golden Slipper Stakes (G1), scheduled for March 22 at Rosehill Gardens.
The racing community mourns the untimely loss of this talented young horse, whose career was tragically cut short before he could reach his full potential.