We were sorry to hear of the passing of former racehorse and show ring hunter Dead Solid Perfect, or Rush, as he was known, at the ripe old age of 39.
It was last January that we first reported on this amazing Kentucky-bred who was celebrating his 39th birthday, but after a fall this past summer and the death of his paddock mate, a 25-year-old Quarter Horse, his health faltered.
His owner, Bridget Eukers, began riding Rush when he was a 9-year-old OTTB. Together the duo shone in the equitation and hunter rings, including the 1995 National Children’s Medal Finals, and the 1996 Connecticut Junior Medal Finals. He retired from the show ring, but Eukers and Rush continued to ride on the flat and go on hacks until he was 35.
Eukers was a very devoted owner and did everything in her power to ensure that Rush was as healthy and pain-free as possible, including sleeping at the barn as the end drew near. Eventually, Rush was unable to get up from the stall floor and the difficult decision was made to euthanize him. But what a remarkable life he led; we wish all horses had such a dedicated and loving owner.
According to BloodHorse magazine, it is likely that Rush was the oldest living Thoroughbred in the United States.