How did war admiral die?

How Did War Admiral Die?

War Admiral was a legendary American Thoroughbred horse that dominated the sport of horse racing in the 1930s. He was a champion at both 2 and 3 years old, winning the Belmont Stakes, the Preakness Stakes, and the Futurity Stakes. His impressive racing career and dominance over his peers earned him a place in the Racing Hall of Fame. However, War Admiral’s life was cut short when he died at the age of 21 due to complications from a ruptured intestine.

Early Life and Racing Career

War Admiral was born on February 2, 1934, at Fair Hill Farm in Maryland. He was sired by Man o’ War, a legendary stallion, and out of a mare named Brushup. From a young age, War Admiral showed exceptional speed and agility, which would later become his trademark. His early racing career was marked by several impressive victories, including the 1936 Futurity Stakes and the Belmont Stakes.

Racing Dominance

War Admiral’s racing dominance was unmatched during his prime. He won 26 of his 30 starts, with four seconds and a third-place finish. His impressive winning streak was highlighted by his 25-race unbeaten streak, which remains one of the longest in racing history. War Admiral’s ability to dominate his peers earned him the nickname "The Great Admiral."

Illness and Death

Despite his impressive racing career, War Admiral’s life was cut short due to illness. In 1942, he began to show signs of illness, which was initially attributed to colic. However, his condition worsened, and he was diagnosed with a ruptured intestine. The condition was likely caused by intestinal impaction, which is a common issue in horses.

Medical Treatment and Decline

War Admiral underwent emergency surgery to repair the ruptured intestine, but the damage was already done. The surgery was unsuccessful, and the horse’s condition continued to deteriorate. He was forced to retire from racing and was eventually sent to a farm in Kentucky to recover.

Death

War Admiral died on May 17, 1959, at the age of 21, due to complications from his intestinal condition. His death was a significant loss to the racing world, and he was remembered as one of the greatest horses of all time.

Legacy

War Admiral’s legacy extends beyond his impressive racing career. He is remembered as a champion and a symbol of excellence in the sport of horse racing. His bloodlines have produced numerous champion horses, including Seabiscuit, Native Dancer, and Aristides.

Conclusion

War Admiral’s life was marked by dominance on the track and tragedy off the track. His premature death was a result of a ruptured intestine, which was likely caused by intestinal impaction. Despite his untimely death, War Admiral’s legacy lives on, and he remains one of the greatest horses in racing history.

Table: War Admiral’s Racing Record

Bullets: Key Facts About War Admiral

• Born: February 2, 1934, at Fair Hill Farm in Maryland
• Sire: Man o’ War
• Dam: Brushup
• Racing Career: 26 wins, 4 seconds, 1 third in 30 starts
• Unbeaten Streak: 25-race unbeaten streak
• Death: May 17, 1959, at the age of 21 due to complications from a ruptured intestine