Always Dreaming, a name that once brought excitement and hope in the world of horse racing, has met a tragic fate. This 10-year-old stallion, with a remarkable four-race winning streak including his victory as the 9-2 favorite in the 2017 Kentucky Derby, passed away due to colic this week in Oklahoma.

The Rise and Fall of a Racing Icon

Diagnosis and Treatment

A 10-year-old stallion, Always Dreaming was diagnosed with colic this month and taken to a clinic. As reported by Thoroughbred Daily News, the horse was sick but didn't require surgery. Everything seemed to be fine initially, and it seemed to be on the path to recovery. However, unfortunately, the cecum in his stomach near the large intestine burst. This unexpected turn of events led to his ultimate demise.There was a sense of hope when Always Dreaming was sent back to the farm after being treated at the clinic. But fate had other plans. The burst cecum was a fatal blow, ending the promising career of this racing star.

Racing Career Highlights

Bred by Santa Rosa Partners, Always Dreaming was by Bodemeister out of an In Excess mare named Above Perfection. He was sold as a yearling for $350,000. Under the guidance of trainer Dominick Schettino, Animal Kingdom raced twice as a maiden at the age of 2.Before the 2017 season, Vinnie Viola joined the partnership, and Always Dreaming was transferred to trainer Todd Pletcher. With John Velázquez riding, the colt collected all four of his wins between January and May that 3-year-old season. His victories included a maiden-breaking score at Tampa Bay Downs, an allowance victory, and then the Grade 1 Florida Derby at Gulfstream Park followed by the Kentucky Derby.Always Dreaming raced five more times over the ensuing year. He finished third in the 2017 Jim Dandy (G2) and second at age 4 in the Gulfstream Park Mile (G2) before being retired to stud after a fifth-place result in the 2018 Alysheba (G2). That race came almost exactly one year after his Kentucky Derby triumph.

Post-Racing Life and Legacy

WinStar Farm, which had joined the racing partnership by then, announced in September 2018 that Always Dreaming would be added to its stallion roster. Of his five crops of progeny, 2023 Pennsylvania Derby (G1) winner Saudi Crown has been the standout.Always Dreaming's impact on the racing world was significant. His victories in major races like the Kentucky Derby inspired generations of horse racing enthusiasts. Even in death, his legacy lives on through his progeny and the memories he created.The story of Always Dreaming is a reminder of the unpredictable nature of life and the fragility of even the greatest racing stars. His journey from a promising young colt to a legendary winner and then to a tragic end is a tale that will be remembered in the annals of horse racing history.