News

Beneteau dead

9th Jan 2013

Breednet - Wednesday, 9 January 2013

Young Arrowfield stallion Beneteau has tragically died this morning.

Vets treating the horse described his condition as "acute onset of a severe neurological condition as a result of trauma".

He was rushed to Randwick Equine Centre yesterday after being found in an ataxic state, however his condition deteriorated further and the decision was taken this morning to humanely euthanize him.

"Arrowfield and the shareholders are absolutely devastated," said Arrowfield spokesperson Susan Archer.

"He was a special favourite of ours having been bred by Arrowfield, showing immense ability as a racehorse and retiring back to Arrowfield."

By Redoute's Choice from Slice Of Paradise, a stakesplaced half-sister to champion Alinghi, much had been expected of Beneteau (pictured) from the start.

Following a million dollar price tag at the Inglis Australian Easter Yearling Sale he was syndicated as a racehorse and stallion prospect in a joint venture between Arrowfield and Blue Sky Thoroughbreds and it wasn't long before he stamped himself one of the most promising juveniles in the country with a win in the Gr3 Blue Diamond Prelude before a luckless third in the Gr1 Blue Diamond Stakes.

At his final two year-old start he finished fifth in Crystal Lily's Golden Slipper and was not seen on the racecourse again, instead being forced into a premature retirement with Arrowfield boss John Messara saying at the time; "It is always disappointing to retire a colt that has not had the chance to display the full measure of his talent on the racecourse..."

Beneteau ultimately stood only two seasons at stud with his first foals being particularly well received this year. Click here to see them on Breednet Foal Gallery.