Global Star Elvstroem Dies at 24

The racing world is mourning the loss of Australian champion racehorse Elvstroem. The globetrotting superstar died at the age of 24 last week in France, where he had been standing at stud since 2016. Elvstroem became one of Australia's finest horses, racing 32 times for 10 wins and more than AU$5.7 million (US$4.2 million) in prize money. Trained by Tony Vasil and raced under the Elvstroem Syndicate, his career highlights included victory in the 2003 Victoria Derby (G1) and the 2004 Caulfield Cup (G1). He also placed fourth in the 2004 Melbourne Cup (G1) behind Makybe Diva. Elvstroem's international career took him to the UAE, where he won the Dubai Duty Free (G1) in 2005, Hong Kong, Britain, and France. Elvstroem was most frequently partnered by Nash Rawiller, with the pair securing four group 1 wins in 17 races together. After being retired, Elvstroem began his stallion career at Blue Gum Stud, later moving to Haras du Petit Tellier, where he remained until his death. His progeny include group 1 winner Hucklebuck (AUS), who struck in the 2014 Emirates Stakes (G1) at Flemington, as well as group 2 scorer Carrara, also group 1-placed when second to Starspangledbanner (AUS) in the 2009 Caulfield Guineas (G1), and Viking Legend, group 1-placed in the 2010 Royal Randwick Guineas (G1), 2009 Champion Stakes (G1), and 2009 Victoria Derby.