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Kentucky Derby winner Medina Spirit collapsed and died after a workout on Monday in Santa Anita, California.
According to trainer Bob Baffert, the horse died of a heart attack after completing five furlongs. The 3-year-old colt was completing its second workout since a second-place finish in the Breeders’ Cup Classic a month ago.
“My entire barn is devastated by this news,” Baffert said in a statement. “Medina Spirit was a great champion, a member of our family who was loved by all, and we are deeply mourning his loss. I will always cherish the proud and personal memories of Medina Spirit and his tremendous spirit.
“Our most sincere condolences go out to Mr. Amr Zedan and the entire Zedan Racing Stables family. They are in our thoughts and prayers as we go through this difficult time.”
Awesome Again Stakes 🏆
Shared Belief Stakes 🏆
Kentucky Derby 🥇Rest in peace Medina Spirit. #RIP
📸 @CoadyPhoto pic.twitter.com/CtumEZ7QpK
— World Horse Racing (@WHR) December 6, 2021
Medina Spirit was in the headlines after the race for reasons other than its performance after a positive test for the steroid betamethasone which was administered on race day. Baffert has been suspended from Churchill Downs for two years as a result of the positive steroid test.
The horse tested positive for the substance through an ointment that was being used to treat a skin rash. The Kentucky Horse Racing Commission continues to investigate the case and has yet to hold a hearing to disqualify Medina Spirit.
Medina Spirit had career earnings of $3.5 million and had five wins in 10 career starts.
