The story of the legendary racehorse Charismatic is one that captures the hearts of many. He was a thoroughbred racehorse who won the 1999 Kentucky Derby and Preakness Stakes, narrowly missing out on the Triple Crown. His story is full of drama and tragedy, and it has been the subject of multiple books, television shows and movies. But the question remains: Is Charismatic still alive?
Charismatic’s Racing Career
Charismatic was foaled in 1996 and raced for three years, during which time he won nine of his twenty-one starts. He was owned by Bob and Beverly Lewis and trained by D. Wayne Lukas. Charismatic began his career as an average racehorse, but he quickly rose to fame when he won the 1999 Kentucky Derby and Preakness Stakes, putting him on the brink of becoming the first horse in over 20 years to win the Triple Crown.
In the Belmont Stakes, Charismatic suffered a career-ending injury while leading the race. He fractured his left front cannon bone and his sesamoid, and he was retired from racing shortly after.
Charismatic’s Legacy
Charismatic’s story has been told many times in books, television shows and movies. He was the subject of the 2001 movie “Charismatic” and the 2004 documentary “The Legend of Charismatic.” His story is one of courage and determination, and he has become an iconic figure in the racing world.
Where is Charismatic Now?
Charismatic was retired from racing in 1999 and was sent to Old Friends, an equine retirement facility in Kentucky. He was living there until 2007, when he was sold to a farm in Japan. Since then, there has been much speculation as to his whereabouts.
Rumors of Charismatic’s Death
In 2008, there were rumors that Charismatic had died in Japan, but these rumors have never been confirmed. In 2013, Old Friends released a statement saying that they had been in contact with the farm in Japan and that Charismatic was still alive.
Public Outcry for Charismatic’s Return
Since Charismatic’s whereabouts have been unknown, there has been a public outcry for his return. In 2013, a petition was started to bring Charismatic back to the United States, and it gained over 40,000 signatures.
Charismatic’s Return to the U.S.
In 2017, Charismatic was finally returned to the United States and taken to Old Friends. He was welcomed back with a hero’s welcome, and he was reunited with his old trainer, D. Wayne Lukas.
Charismatic’s Health
When Charismatic returned to the United States, he was in good health, though he was suffering from arthritis in his left front leg. He was treated with medication and given special care to make sure he was comfortable.
Charismatic Today
Today, Charismatic is still alive and living at Old Friends in Kentucky. He can often be seen in the paddock, interacting with visitors and enjoying his retirement.
Conclusion
The story of Charismatic is one that has captivated the hearts of many. He was a courageous racehorse who came close to winning the Triple Crown, and his story has been told in books, television shows and movies. But the question remains: Is Charismatic still alive? The answer is yes, and he is living out his days at Old Friends in Kentucky.
Charismatic may no longer be racing, but his legacy lives on. He is an iconic figure in the racing world, and he will be remembered for his courage and determination.