KIWI STAR TE AKAU SHARK PASSES AWAY

His ownership group Te Akau Racing announced his passing via a statement on Thursday.

"It is with immense pain and sadness that we announce that our beloved Te Akau Shark has lost his brave health battle," Te Akau Racing said.

"A true warrior, 'Darryl', your heart and courage, your determination and kindness, lit up the lives of everyone privileged to know you – as well as those who admired you from afar.

"You made us laugh, you made us proud, you brought so much joy – we fell in love with you over and over again, every single day with your quirky personality. Your owners, our team, the racing world.

"You changed lives and left your inedible hoof prints stamped all over our hearts. Our grief has no words."

Te Akau Shark only raced a handful of times before arriving in Australia but he quickly drew the crowds with his positive racing style and pure dominance in winning. 

Arriving on the Australian racing scene in 2019 ‘The Shark’ was unlucky not to win the Epsom Handicap in the Autumn before his quality came to the fore in 2020.

Returning with trainer Jamie Richards Te Akau Shark produced a barn storming run to take out the Group 1 Chipping Norton beating home Verry Elleegant who went on to have a huge spring. 

Te Akau Sharks career was plagued with injury leading up to eye surgery in 2021. A lung infection off the back of the surgery unfortunately cut short the 6 year olds racing career. 

"Rest in peace our beautiful boy at Te Akau Stud, forever to gallop across our vast, green pastures. We are shattered by your loss and will be eternally grateful to have had you, our great red giant, in our lives. We miss you terribly," said Te Akau Racing.

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