Legendary Racehorse, Fusaichi Pegasus, Dies at the Age of 26
Fusaichi Pegasus, the famous 2000 Kentucky Derby winner, has died at the age of 26. The prized horse was put down on Tuesday, August 17, 2021, at Ashford Stud located in Versailles, Kentucky, due to age-related infirmities.
Nicknamed “Fu Peg,” the talented horse was purchased for a hefty $4 million by Fusao Sekiguchi at the 1998 Keeneland July Sale. Fusaichi Pegasus was trained by Hall of Famer Neil Drysdale.
In his impressive career, Fusaichi Pegasus won the San Felipe Stakes and Wood Memorial along with the 2000 Kentucky Derby as the 2-1 favorite, becoming the first favorite to win since 1979. Ridden by Kent Desormeaux, the legendary racehorse won the Derby by 1 1/2 lengths over Aptitude and became the highest-priced horse purchased at public auction to win the prestigious race.
He also won six out of nine career starts and retired with earnings of $1,994,400, but his talents extended far beyond his racing career.
Fusaichi Pegasus began his stud career in 2001 at Ashford, where Coolmore paid a reported $60 million for his stallion rights, breaking records of that time. He produced six champions worldwide along with several Grade 1 stakes winners such as Bandini, Champ Pegasus, Haradasun, and Roman Ruler.
He also had successful breeding careers both in the northern and southern hemispheres. One of his notable offspring was Bronzo, who was hailed as Horse of the Year. His remarkable stud career came to an end in 2020.
Dermot Ryan, general manager of Ashford Stud stated, “Fu Peg was a fantastic racehorse and a colorful character.” Fusaichi Pegasus will always be remembered as a true legend of the racing world.
Source: nypost.com
