Heatseeker Bows Out
There were many disappointed fans and spectators at Hollywood Park last weekend, as Heatseeker was scratched from the $750 000 Hollywood Gold Cup on the day before the race. He was the race favorite for the day, and everyone was sure that he would be able to win the Hollywood Gold Cup effortlessly. On hearing that the spectacular five year old had a swollen ankle, many fans consoled themselves that their hero would take time off to recuperate, and that they would see him in the next racing event. But that is not going to happen, as Heatseeker will be retiring.
The swollen ankle that was at first thought to be a minor injury has turned out to be a ligament injury that will take approximately six months to heal. Owner William de Burgh and Trainer Jerry Hollendorfer were both very disappointed at the outcome of the medical examination, as they were hoping that Heatseeker would be racing in the $5 Million Breeders’ Cup Classic, which takes place on 26 October 2008.
Heatseeker is seen as one of the top older horses in the horse racing industry. During his career, Heatseeker has won seven of his seventeen career starts, and enjoyed five second places. He has accumulated more than $1.1 million in earnings and some of his most spectacular victories have included the Santa Anita Handicap and the Californian.
It was decided to rather retire Heatseeker, than to give him time off the track and try to train him for a comeback. Over the years, there has been a vast amount of interest in Heatseeker as a stallion, and even though stud plans have not been confirmed, it would be a good option for the retiring great. As the son of Giant’s Causeway, Heatseeker definitely has unmistakably good racing genes, and his career in horse racing has cemented his legacy in the world of racing. Even though fans and racing enthusiasts are saddened by the news of his retirement, the decision was made in his best interest. Heatseeker will leave behind many fond memories and breathtaking wins to be remembered by his loyal supporters.
