Homegrown champion Riff Rocket posthumously honoured

Bred and owned by Debbie Kepitis and her family, Riff Rocket’s journey in the racing world was remarkable. His triumph in the 2023 Group 1 Penfolds Victoria Derby not only secured his place in racing history but also brought immense joy to Debbie and her family, further enriching their already impressive legacy in breeding and racing.

Riff Rocket was posthumously honoured as Champion 3YO Colt/Gelding at the Australian Racehorse of the Year Awards in October, a testament to his talent and impact on the sport.

Sired by American Pharoah and out of Missile Coda, Riff Rocket was born and raised at Coolmore Stud, where he was nurtured into a formidable racehorse. His lineage included connections to celebrated winners like Rainbird, the 1945 Melbourne Cup champion. Riff Rocket’s victory in the Penfolds Victoria Derby marked the eighth Group 1 winner for American Pharoah and was a proud moment for Debbie, who has been involved in the racing industry for decades.

Debbie’s joy on that memorable Derby day was evident. As she watched Riff Rocket race to victory with jockey James McDonald, her emotions overflowed, reflecting the culmination of her family’s dedication to the sport. “We are so proud of him and can’t believe the journey he took us on,” Debbie expressed during the Australian Racehorse of the Year Awards. “He was born, raised, grazed, and broken in at Coolmore. We are saddened to have lost him but so lucky to have enjoyed him for his short life.”

His impressive record of seven wins from twelve starts and earnings exceeding $3.5 million spoke volumes about his talent and potential. In his three-year-old season Riff Rocket won the Group 1 Penfolds Victoria Derby, Group 1 ATC Derby and Group 1 Rosehill Guineas, as well as two other Stakes races. In the aftermath of his passing, trainer Chris Waller summed up the collective grief felt in the racing community: “This is an incredibly difficult time for everyone involved, as we mourn the loss of not just a magnificent racehorse, but also an extraordinary animal who made an indelible impact on Australian racing.

“A week ago, Riff Rocket underwent surgery to address a complication with his bowel. While his initial recovery appeared promising, the complexities often associated with such surgeries persisted.

“Our thoughts go out to all those who had the privilege of working with and supporting Riff Rocket throughout his career. He will be deeply missed, but his legacy will continue to inspire us all.”

Riff Rocket’s legacy will be forever etched in the memories of those who followed his career, and especially in the hearts of the Kepitis family.