Norman’s Cay has died after suffering a fatal injury in the Woodcote Stakes at Epsom Downs, it has been confirmed. The race was won by Maximized, who saw off the challenge posed by Havana Hurricane to claim victory by a length and a half. However, there was a sad postscript when Norman’s Cay sustained an injury in the closing stages.
The two-year-old was pulled up towards the end of the race before walking into a horse ambulance and was later taken to the stables for further assessment. Unfortunately, his injury proved fatal and he was put down. The veterinary team decided that it was the right decision for the welfare of the horse, given the serious nature of his injury.
The sad news was confirmed in a statement from ITV Racing, which read: “Norman’s Cay was taken back to the racecourse stables for further assessment by Epsom racecourse’s expert veterinary team after sustaining an injury in the closing stages of the race.
“In their assessment, it was concluded that the best course of action for the horse’s welfare was to be humanely euthanised. Our heartfelt condolences are with his connections.”
Norman’s Cay was being ridden by jockey David Egan and was owned by AMO Racing, led by football agent Kia Joorabchian. He was competing in only his second race of the year, having previously won the Brocklesby Stakes in Doncaster by a nose.
AMO Racing analyst Charlie Sutton posted a heartfelt message on X (formerly Twitter) after the news of his death was confirmed.
“Very sad to lose Norman’s Cay at Epsom today,” he wrote. “He was very well cared for at Richard Hannon’s during his short career and again by the vets at the track.
“Can talk about what a nice horse he could’ve been for the team but ability is irrelevant in these circumstances really.”
A number of racing fans also paid tribute to Norman’s Cay on social media, with @lowy121 posting: “Oh, Norman’s Cay. So grim to see such a young horse injured like that. Sleep tight little man.”
@SallyAnneHarri4 added: “Norman’s Cay didn’t make it. Thoughts with all who love him. Thank you for the memories boy.”
@Daveys_Tips, meanwhile, wrote: “Sad to hear Norman’s Cay is no longer with us. All thoughts and prayers go to the connections and everyone involved.”
