Australian Racing Community Mourns Loss of Beloved Stayers Champion Precedence
The Australian horse racing world is in mourning following the passing of much-loved stayer Precedence, who has died at the age of 20. A true crowd favourite throughout his distinguished career, Precedence carved out a formidable reputation as one of the toughest and most reliable gallopers of his entire era.
The Legacy of a Cummings Trained Champion
Trained by the legendary Bart Cummings, Precedence holds a special and enduring place in Australian racing history as the Cups King's final runner in the 2014 Melbourne Cup. Across a remarkably durable and admirable career spanning many seasons, Precedence recorded an impressive 10 wins from 69 total starts while earning nearly $2 million in prize money throughout his time on the track.
He earned widespread respect not just for his competitive victories but for his exceptional consistency, remarkable resilience, and unwavering willingness to compete consistently at the very highest levels of the sport. Whether contesting major staying races or grinding it out against the toughest company, he truly embodied the grit and determination that defines Australia's greatest stayers throughout history.
Melbourne Cup Performances and Career Highlights
While he did not ultimately win the Melbourne Cup, Precedence finished in the top 10 of the prestigious race three separate times from his four total starts. In his final appearance in the Race that Stops the Nation, he achieved an admirable personal best with an excellent sixth-placed finish that showcased his competitive spirit.
"I know the horse didn't win a Melbourne Cup, but he won a lot of hearts on his way to competing in four of them," James Cummings once remarked about the beloved galloper, highlighting the emotional connection Precedence forged with racing fans nationwide.
Tributes from the Racing Community
Famous racing writer Patrick Bartley once said Precedence "possessed a proud carriage, impeccably proportioned physique, and exemplified the epitome of a magnificent racehorse." This description captures the physical presence and competitive spirit that made him so memorable to those who followed his career.
Horse racing presenter Caroline Searcy shared: "Very sad to hear of the loss of the wonderful Bart Cummings trained Precedence ... looked after so beautifully by Fi McIntyre in his years since racing. Ran in four Melbourne Cups ... loved by Reg and the Cummings' staff. Dear boy."
Responding to Searcy's tribute, racing identity Kate Goodrich added: "Oh Caroline this is awful news, Fiona adored that boy and did such a great job with him promoting OTTers." This highlights the important work done with Off-The-Track Thoroughbreds after their racing careers conclude.
A devoted fan simply stated: "He was a favourite of many a racing fan. RIP," capturing the widespread affection felt for this remarkable stayer throughout the Australian racing community and beyond.
