Vale Delta Blues

Delta Blues made history in 2006 when he became the first Japanese horse to win the Lexus Melbourne Cup, famously beating stablemate Pop Rock for trainer Katsuhiko Sumi.

The win was met with celebration from across the world when jockey Yasunari Iwata guided Delta Blues to victory and received congratulations from three-time Melbourne Cup winning jockey Damien Oliver who lifted the Japanese rider’s hand in triumph after finishing second aboard Pop Rock.

Following his racing career, Delta Blues retired to owner Katsumi Yoshida’s Northern Horse Park where he excelled in the equestrian pursuit of showjumping. His athletic build and competitive nature made him an excellent performer in the arena where he found success, delighting his fans away from the track.

Delta Blues was eventually retired to Old Friends Japan, a retirement and retraining facility for racehorses. Last year, the Lexus Melbourne Cup Tour visited Delta Blues at Old Friends Japan.

VRC Chairman Neil Wilson extended his condolences to connections on behalf of the club.

“Delta Blues will forever be remembered and linked to the Lexus Melbourne Cup as the first Japanese horse to win Australia’s most iconic race, inspiring further Japanese participation in the Cup,” Mr Wilson said.

“It has been special to be able to visit Delta Blues over the years as part of the Lexus Melbourne Cup Tour and see him enjoying his retirement long after his racing career.”

“We pass on our sympathies to his owner Katsumi Yoshida, the staff at Old Friends Japan and the entire racing community who loved and adored their champion.”