In a devastating turn of events, the racing world mourns the loss of New York Thunder, the undefeated 3-year-old colt widely recognized as a premier sprinter in the nation. The colt had to be euthanized due to a catastrophic injury suffered in the closing moments of the Grade 1 H. Allen Jerkens Memorial at Saratoga Race Course on Saturday.
With an unbeaten record, New York Thunder, son of Nyquist, was leading the seven-furlong race by a considerable margin when disaster struck. In a sudden and tragic stumble, the colt fell near the finish line, throwing jockey Tyler Gaffalione to the ground. Despite swift intervention by veterinarians, it was determined that New York Thunder had sustained a devastating fracture to his left front fetlock, and there was no viable chance for recovery.
Tyler Gaffalione, though shaken by the incident, emerged largely unscathed and was declared fit to ride the following day, as confirmed by his agent Matt Muzikar.
Trained by Jorge Delgado for AMO Racing, New York Thunder's promising career had been marked by a series of victories, including a triumph in the Grade 2 Amsterdam Stakes at Saratoga just weeks prior. With a Beyer Speed Figure of 107, he had captured the attention of racing enthusiasts and experts alike. The colt had emerged as the 6-5 favorite in the Allen Jerkens race, standing on the brink of his inaugural Grade 1 victory before this heart-wrenching tragedy unfolded.
The Grade 1 Allen Jerkens was ultimately secured by One in Vermillion, a stunning performance under Irad Ortiz Jr., who rallied from last to first. Verifying secured the second position, followed by Arabian Lion in third.
The loss of New York Thunder reverberated deeply throughout the racing community, eliciting expressions of shock and sorrow. Irad Ortiz Jr. shared his sentiments, stating, "I’m heartbroken for everyone involved with New York Thunder. He was a great horse and a tough competitor. It’s a terrible thing to see happen."
Jorge Delgado, his trainer, echoed the sentiment of loss, praising New York Thunder as a truly exceptional horse. In his words, "He was a dream come true for me and my owners. He was such a fast and classy horse. He gave us so much joy and excitement. He didn’t deserve this. It’s very hard to accept."
New York Thunder's journey was marked by notable achievements. Bred in Kentucky by Stonestreet Thoroughbred Holdings, he was acquired for $450,000 at the Keeneland September Yearling Sale in 2021. Out of the stakes-winning mare Stormy Regatta, by Midshipman, New York Thunder concluded his career with an impressive record of four wins from five starts and earnings totaling $307,500.
As the racing community grieves this profound loss, New York Thunder's legacy as a talented and promising racer endures in the hearts of all who admired his exceptional prowess on the track.
New York Thunder, Tragedy, Racing Community, Heartbreaking Loss, Unbeaten Colt, Grade 1 H. Allen Jerkens Memorial, Undefeated Record, Promising Career, Racing Enthusiasts*
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