Champion racehorse Think About It, the 2023 winner of Australia's richest race The Everest, has died following complications from colic surgery. The gelding, who amassed over $12 million in prize money under trainer Joe Pride, was euthanised after a health battle that included a prior fall at Randwick. Proven Thoroughbreds confirmed the news in a statement, mourning the loss of a 'once in a lifetime horse.'
Think About It, affectionately known as 'Spud' by his connections, rose from midweek BM72 races to stardom, securing multiple Group 1 victories including The Everest in 2023, the Stradbroke Handicap, and the Kingsford Smith Cup. Over his 19-start career, the horse won 11 races and placed in three others, showcasing relentless effort on the track.
In 2024, just a year after his Everest triumph at Randwick, Think About It suffered a dramatic fall during the Sydney Stakes, resulting in a massive pulmonary haemorrhage. He miraculously survived the incident but was swiftly retired and placed in the care of Sam Clipperton.
Tragedy struck again when the horse underwent colic surgery at the Randwick Equine Centre. Although he initially recovered well, his condition deteriorated despite the veterinary team's efforts. 'Proven Thoroughbreds is deeply saddened to announce that Think About It was euthanised yesterday,' the stable said in a social media statement. 'Unfortunately, our horse affectionately known as "Spud" was not able to cheat death twice. After initially coming through colic surgery successfully, Spud took a turn for the worse despite the efforts of the amazing team at Randwick Equine Centre.'
The statement reflected on his character: 'A high energy horse, Think About It applied himself 110 per cent to everything he did, without a great deal of self-preservation. He tried his absolute guts out every time he raced and this is all any owner, fan or punter can ever ask for. Maybe he was supposed to live fast, die young.'
Fans and the racing community have expressed grief over the loss of a horse who captivated with his rapid ascent and battling spirit.
