“Rip Buddy”: Horse Racing World Mourns as Beloved Cody Dorman Passes Away

The horse racing world witnessed a beautiful human-equine bond being made in 2018. When a little boy with Wolf-Hirschhorn syndrome entered through the gates of Gainsborough Farm in Kentucky, magic awaited. Cody Dorman, the then-early teenager, met a young horse through Make-A-Foundation, but his recent news left the world devastated.

Cody’s Wish, the multiple grade stakes winner, was named after Cody Dorman just when the two had their first meeting. Before galloping to victory at the recent Breeders Cup Dirt Mile, the equine lovingly visited the young boy. The parents and the media blessed their eyes as the animal sniffed the boy, following a precious, recognizing moment. But as Dorman was flying back home, he fell victim to his worst fate.

Breeders Cup extended condolence

In a recent X post, Breeders Cup announced the heartbreaking news of Cody’s passing. Captioned as, “NEWS: Statement in Memory of Cody Dorman The entire Breeders’ Cup team is devastated by the news of Cody Dorman’s passing yesterday. His story captured our hearts and minds, and his strength, spirit, and determination were fittingly embodied by his namesake’s commanding performances in his honor. We send our sincere condolences to the Dormans, who gave our sport so much by welcoming us into their family.”

The video featured the friends’ last visit and cameras going click-click. The boy, unable to speak or function properly, interacted with the animal in his own way. Surprisingly, Cody’s Wish answered back as if he perfectly understood what the boy tried to convey. However, with Cody’s win at Breeders Cup, the world believed in true friendship.

When the family was flying back to Kentucky, Dorman suffered a “medical event.” The parents resorted to the Godolphin Racing’s account to announce the news. The boy’s parents, sporting an unwavering spirit, wrote, “With Cody’s diagnosis at birth, we always knew this day would come, but we were determined to help Cody live his best life for however long we had him.”

In the same vein, fans jumped in to extend their share of support after receiving the saddening news. Under Breeders Cup post, horse racing enthusiasts lauded the brave boy.

Horse racing fans mourned Dorman’s passing

One fan wrote, “Sad af RIP buddy,” while wishing for speedy emotional recovery of the family.

Another fan wrote in the same vein, “Prayers to Cody Dorman’s family. What a brave young man who made such an indelible impact.” 

Another equestrian lover extended her condolences, saying, “On no. RIP Cody Dorman, my deepest condolences to the Dorman family, prayers for Cody’s family through this difficult time.” 

One fan teared up remembering the beautiful relationship the human and the animal shared. He wrote, “gutted. Cody lived to see his Cody win his last race. What a story. Fly high in your angel wings, Cody.”

Another fan said, “RIP Cody.”

READ MORE: “Heartbreak”: After Breeders Cup Fall, Horse Racing World Awaits Health Update for Renowned Equine

The heavens smiled as Cody’s Wish returned from a well-deserved Dirt Mile win. Pushing past Preakness Stakes winner National Treasure, the 5-year-old had a storybook ending.

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