Three-time Group 1 winner Riff Rocket dies
Chris Waller has paid tribute to his dual Derby winner Riff Rocket (American Pharoah) after it was announced the four-year-old died following complications from emergency colic surgery that was conducted early last week.
The son of American Pharoah (Pioneerof The Nile), who was bred and raced by Debbie Kepitis and family, broke his maiden on debut over 1225 metres at Geelong before running seventh over 1400 metres at Flemington.
Returning as a three-year-old, Riff Rocket produced a stellar campaign, running a total of nine times for an incredible six wins and three placings, including the Victoria Derby (Gr 1, 2500m), Australian Derby (Gr 1, 2400m) and Rosehill Guineas (Gr 1, 2000m).
In winning both of those Derby races, the gelding joined a shortlist that includes Dulcify (Decies), Mahogany (Last Tycoon) and Hitotsu (Maurice) as the only horses to complete the Victoria Derby and ATC Derby double.
Riff Rocket’s last start, and only as a four-year-old, came when a promising seventh in the Winx Stakes (Gr 1, 1400m), beaten less than three lengths by stablemate Via Sistina (Fastnet Rock).
Crowned last season’s New South Wales 3YO of the Year, Riff Rocket was a leading contender for the national award, which will be announced in Adelaide early next month.
“This is a heartbreaking loss not only for the Kepitis family, but also for the entire team at Chris Waller Racing,” Waller said.
“Riff Rocket will forever hold a special place in our hearts, remembered for the fighting spirit he displayed both on the racetrack and in his final days.
“Riff Rocket’s career as a three-year-old was nothing short of remarkable.
“Our thoughts go out to all those who had the privilege of working with and supporting Riff Rocket throughout his career. He will be deeply missed, but his legacy will continue to inspire us all.”
In total Riff Rocket won seven of his 12 starts, amassing more than $3.5 million in prize-money.