Cheltenham Festival hero Shishkin death leaves Nicky Henderson devastated at loss of 'friend'

Seven Barrows trainer Nicky Henderson has announced the tragic death of Cheltenham Festival hero Shishkin.

In an emotional statement shared on his X account, Henderson wrote: "Tragically we have lost Shishkin after he got cast in his stable and fractured his hind leg. Everyone involved with Seven Barrows, particularly his owners, Joe and Marie Donnelly, Jaydon, Nico and George are obviously devastated that such a great horse, friend and warrior has gone.

"He was due to leave for Punchestown but sadly this is now not to be. He was an absolute superstar and his CV is testament to that - except the King George is not in it even though we believe it should have been." The Supreme Novice Hurdle and the Arkle were his Cheltenham highlights, but the the battle with Energumene in the Clarence House at Ascot was probably his greatest.

"This is a very sad night. He was our star and we will never forget him. Thank you Shishkin for the wonderful memories." Shishkin had been one of the standout names in National Hunt racing in recent years, having made a name for himself during the 2019/2020 season. He won 11 of his first 12 races under rules for Seven Barrows, including the 2020 Supreme Novices' Hurdle.

Shishkin, the 10 year old National Hunt horse, delivered a masterful performance in the Arkle a year later, defeating Eldorado Allen by 12l. However, it was his thrilling duel with Willie Mullins' Energumene in the 2022 Clarence House at Ascot that will be etched in the memory of many.

The two horses battled fiercely in the 2m 1f contest, with Shishkin eventually triumphing by a mere length. This epic race, which solidified Shishkin's status as one of the modern greats of National Hunt racing, is one for the history books.

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