Just days after we rejoiced to see this beautiful colt stamped in his mother’s image, Team Zenyatta announced that tragedy had struck.

Kyle Acebo for Team Zenyatta.

According to Zenyatta’s website earlier today:

VERSAILLES, KY — (April 13, 2016) It is with heavy hearts that Team Zenyatta and Lane’s End Farm must announce the passing of Zenyatta’s 2016 foal by War Front. His death occurred at approximately 9:00 am this morning due to complications of meconium aspiration syndrome. We express our deep gratitude to Dr. Peter Morresey and the professionals at Rood & Riddle Equine Hospital who worked tirelessly to support the mare and foal. Zenyatta is in good health and back home at Lane’s End Farm.

It’s always a tragedy that despite the best care in the world, the worst can still happen. We’re glad to hear that Zenyatta remains in good health while we mourn with her team over the loss of her beautiful colt.

Meconium aspiration syndrome occurs when meconium, or the first fecal matter of a foal, is voided when the foal is still in utero. The foal can then inhale the contaminated amniotic fluid. Despite prompt and skilled treatment complications can still develop.

Our hearts go out to everyone on Team Zenyatta on this tragic day. We ask that our readers keep commentary respectful.

Go “Baby Z.”