Rarely does the equestrian fraternity get to witness a sheer showstopper leaving its hoofprints in the annals of history. Deep Impact was one of those trendsetters. This truly remarkable horse has had a phenomenal record with 12 wins out of 14 starts from December 2004 to December 2006 and emerged as one of the most successful sires ever. He sired over 100 Group winners for stud owners in Japan and America. As this 2005 Japanese Triple Crown Champion, his legacy in horse racing was blighted by a terrible incident when he suffered an irreparable neck fracture, eventually succumbing to his injuries in the first week of December 2019.

Initially bred by Northern Farm and purchased for ¥70,000,000 (£530,000) by Kaneko Makoto Holdings during the JHRA Select Sale in 2002, this exceptional equine talent commenced training under Yasuo Ikee’s guidance. Recently, the global horse racing paid tribute to his legacy, commemorating his indelible contributions in their heartfelt posts and remembrances.

A revered legacy in horse racing

Global Horse Racing recently paid homage to Deep Impact in a heartfelt Instagram post, showcasing a beautifully adorned headstone commemorating and immortalizing him. The emotional caption read, ‘End of an Era.’ For the first time since 2011, DEEP IMPACT will not be Japan’s champion sire this year. The Arima Kinen will determine whether LORD KANALOA or DURAMENTE is 2023’s leading sire.“ The post reflected on the profound legacy left behind by Deep Impact.

The Shadai Stallion Station had issued a statement detailing the surgery undergone by their prized stallion, Deep Impact, as part of his ongoing treatment. Despite a seemingly successful operation, the following day, Deep Impact struggled to stand, and subsequent x-rays revealed a fracture in his cervical spine, leading to the heartbreaking decision to euthanize him. Back in March 2019, Shadai announced Deep Impact’s retirement from the covering season due to a neck issue, leaving breeders with the daunting task of replacing a stallion with an unparalleled legacy. Upon the post’s sharing, fans had expressed their heartfelt sentiments in response.

Heartfelt tributes and emotional farewells

Among the myriad of comments paying tribute to Deep Impact’s legacy, a few stood out. One comment poignantly remarked, “End of an era. But never-ending Sunday Silence’s journey! Legends never die.” This sentiment echoed the belief in the enduring legacy of Sunday Silence, the revered sire, transcending the passing of his prodigious son.

Read More: “Seriously?”: Horse Racing World Divided After Millionaire Jockey Receives Prestigious Award at Lester’s 2023

Another heartfelt expression simply stated, “Beautiful, Deserved.” Others shared personal connections, with one commenter affirming, “My favorite legend will never be forgotten!” One more succinctly put, “Hurts,“ and the final heartfelt sentiment, “Sad to see you go.” Will his reputation be upheld? One can only hope.

Watch this story: Stella McCartney Presents Heartfelt Tribute to her equestrian enthusiast family