Cheltenham hero Shishkin died after he became cast in his stable on Sunday evening, his trainer Nicky Henderson announced.
The racehorse had been one of the star names in National Hunt racing over recent years after bursting onto the scene during the 2019/2020 season. Shiskin was owned by Joe and Marie Donnelly, who bought him in the Tattersalls December sales in 2018 for a price of £170,000.
And he quickly proved to be a savvy investment, winning 11 of his first 12 races under rules for the Seven Barrows stable, including in the 2020 Supreme Novices' Hurdle.
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Shishkin had started in point-to-points for Virginia Considine, but after the Donnelly's purchased him he was swiftly sent to four-time champion trainer Henderson. Shishkin would then be trained at his iconic yard in Lambourn, Berkshire.
The racehorse was partnered exclusively by Nico de Boinville under Rules and the pair have combined for 12 wins from 18 runs. And racing fans will fondly remember his narrow win over the Willie Mullins-trained Energumene in the 2022 renewal of the Clarence House at Ascot.
What's your favourite Shishkin moment? Let us know in the comments section.
According to Bet365, Shishkin has taken home over £736,000 in his career, with the majority of those earnings coming via Chase races and a small portion from Hurdle and NH Flat efforts.
Henderson shared the sad news on his X account on Sunday evening: "Tragically we have lost Shishkin this evening after he got cast in his stable and fractured his hind leg.
"Everyone involved with Seven Barrows, particularly his owners, Joe and Marie Donnelly, Jaydon, Nico and George are obviously devastated that such a great horse, friend and warrior has gone. He was due to leave for Punchestown tomorrow morning but sadly this is now not to be.
"He was an absolute superstar and his CV is testament to that - except the King George is not in it even though we believe it should have been.
"The Supreme Novice Hurdle and the Arkle were his Cheltenham highlights, but the battle with Energumene in the Clarence House at Ascot was probably his greatest. This is a very sad night. He was our star and we will never forget him. Thank you, Shishkin for the wonderful memories."
A horse is said to be cast when it gets stuck on its back or side and can't get its feet under it to stand up again.
Shishkin would suffer a fractured hind leg, causing Henderson to share the tragic news on social media that the racehorse had passed away.
Racing fans took to social media to pay tribute to the legend. "Shishkin, I’ll love you forever," one fan posted. While a second added: "Shishkin was a tremendous beast and one of the most affectionate horses I’ve ever come across. Like a gigantic labrador. Feel very sorry for Jaydon & Hendo in particular."
