Geaux Rocket Ride euthanized after failing to recover from surgery

ARCADIA, Calif. – Geaux Rocket Ride, the two-time stakes winner who underwent surgery to repair a displaced condylar fracture on Sunday, was euthanized Wednesday after failing to recover sufficiently from the operation, according to a statement released by owner Pin Oak Stud in late afternoon.

“It is with heavy hearts that we report that, at the recommendation of the medical team, Geaux Rocket Ride has finally reached peace,” the statement read, in part.

“His mind and his spirit never quit, but his body never recovered from surgery. He had a very rare response post-op and he wasn’t able to stand again. He fought hard and our team of vets tried everything they could.”

Geaux Rocket Ride sustained the condylar fracture injury in the stretch of a workout Saturday.

The colt underwent surgery Sunday at the backstretch hospital at Santa Anita and was transported to the Chino Valley Equine Hospital on Monday after complications arose during recovery.

Trainer Richard Mandella was told by veterinarians at the Chino Valley Equine Hospital that Geaux Rocket Ride had suffered “temporary paralysis” and was unable to stand after the surgery, Mandella said.

While Mandella said there was some improvement on Tuesday and that the colt was able to stand briefly at times, Geaux Rocket Ride’s condition took a turn for the worse late Tuesday and into Wednesday, he said.

A 3-year-old colt, Geaux Rocket Ride was rated as a contender for the Breeders’ Cup Classic at Santa Anita on Saturday after winning the Grade 1 Haskell at Monmouth Park in July and finishing second to Arabian Knight in the Grade 1 Pacific Classic on Sept. 2 at Del Mar.

In a statement published late Wednesday afternoon, the Breeders’ Cup offered condolences.

“The immense effort that went into Geaux Rocket Ride’s medical care following Saturday’s injury is a testament to his team’s deep commitment to his wellbeing,” the statement said.

Geaux Rocket Ride won 3 of 5 starts and earned $980,200.