By Matt Markham
Defending Dominion Handicap champion, Jaccka Justy, has died after suffering a severe bout of colic.
The nine-year-old son of Continentalman had recently relocated to Canterbury to prepare for the defence of his Dominion title in the care of Jonny Cox – but was struck with colic yesterday morning and despite the best efforts of vets in attendance he was unable to be saved.
Cox had the hard task of notifying the gelding’s owners and breeders, Charlie and Ailsa Smaill of his death while they are overseas holidaying in the UK.
Touted as a horse of some potential early on his career, Jaccka Justy finally lived up to the mantle when he stormed passed Stent, Sheemon and co. in last year’s Dominion at Addington.
He won three of his first four starts when trained by Nathan Williamson.
He also spent time in the care of Smaill, Dave Anderson and both Cox and Amber Hoffman when in partnership and on their own accord.
Recently crowned the Otago Horse of the Year at their annual awards function for the second year running, Jaccka Justy ended his career with 13 wins from his 58 career starts with a further eight placings and stake earnings of more than $230,000.
As well as the Dominion, Jaccka Justy also won the DG Jones Memorial Banks Peninsula Trotting Cup and was placed in the Summer Trotting Free-For-All last season behind Kincaslough.
Approved By Dean Baring www.harnessbred.com
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