Sir Alex Ferguson’s horse was the favourite for the Grade Two Coral Silviniaco Conti Chase at Kempton Park on Saturday, but sadly suffered an injury at the ninth fence of 16
Trainer Paul Nicholls has paid tribute to “big, bold horse” Kalif Du Berlais after his rising star died at Kempton Park. The six-year-old was leading in the Grade Two Coral Silviniaco Conti Chase when he made a jumping error and unseated jockey Harry Cobden.
Kalif Du Berlais suffered a shoulder injury and although vets were quickly by his side, the Grade One winner sadly could not be saved. Nicholls, whose horse raced in the colours of part-owner Sir Alex Ferguson, said: “He was a big bold horse that attacked his fences. He was enthusiastic today and travelling beautifully.
“It is a big kick in the teeth for everybody, the owners, and the poor girl that looks after him. Harry was extremely upset.”
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Ferguson, who shared Kalif Du Berlais with friends including Ged Mason, was at Aintree’s Grand National meeting in April when the thoroughbred took the top level Maghull Novices’ Chase. The first prize was worth just over £67,000 and contributed to almost £200,000 earned in ten races for Nicholls.
“We’ll never know where he would have ended up, but we had a lot of faith in him,” the 14-time champion handler added via Sporting Life. “It was great that the vets were right on it. He has winged the fence and has probably halfway over it changed his mind and landed awkwardly.
“These horses get the best of everything and it is sad when things like this happen.”
A spokesperson for ITV Racing, broadcasting from the track near London, said they were “deeply saddened” to confirm Kalif Du Berlais and another galloper, Wertpol, had passed away after their races on the card.
“In both instances, the horses were immediately attended to by expert veterinary teams after sustaining injuries during their respective races but sadly could not be saved,” they added.
“Our heartfelt condolences and thoughts are with their connections during this difficult time.”
