Horse racing world rocked as legendary champion dies days after undergoing emergency surgery

The Australian horse racing world is in mourning after Melbourne Cup contender Riff Rocket passed away just days after undergoing emergency surgery.

The racehorse, trained by Chris Waller, underwent emergency surgery for colic just before his Flemington campaign this spring.

After the operation he initially showed positive signs, but on Tuesday his health deteriorated.

Waller said in a statement: “It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Riff Rocket, due to complications from his colic surgery.

‘This is an incredibly difficult time for everyone involved. We mourn not only the loss of a wonderful racehorse, but an extraordinary animal who made an indelible impression on Australian racing.’

Waller added that the ‘The complexity that often accompanies such (bowel) operations remained’.

“Despite the tireless efforts of veterinarians and caregivers over the past seven days, we have not been able to overcome these challenges,” he wrote.

Riff Rocket won $3.5 million in prize money, won Group 1 three times and was the heavy favorite to win the Caulfield Cup this year.

Riff Rocket was among the top contenders for this spring’s horse racing season

He was also a leading contender for the Cox Plate and the Melbourne Cup before his tragic death.

“This is a heartbreaking loss, not only for the Kepitis family, but for the entire Chris Waller Racing team,” said Waller.

‘Riff Rocket will always have a special place in our hearts as we remember him for the fighting spirit he showed both on the track and in his final days.

“Our thoughts go out to everyone who had the privilege of working with Riff Rocket and supporting him throughout his career.

“We will miss him tremendously, but his legacy will continue to inspire us all.”