Fierceness, a top racehorse and three-time Grade 1 winner, has recently undergone ankle surgery and will miss some of the biggest races this winter. This includes important events in Florida and the Middle East. Trainer Todd Pletcher confirmed the surgery and explained that the decision was made after Fierceness competed in the Breeders’ Cup Classic on November 2, 2024.
Fierceness’s Surgery and Recovery
Fierceness, who was a favorite in the 3-year-old male division, had surgery on his hind ankle after his second-place finish in the Breeders’ Cup Classic at Del Mar. Pletcher shared that after the race, they sent the horse to Kentucky for a thorough check-up. After consulting with several veterinarians, they decided to perform an elective procedure on his ankle to ensure the horse’s long-term health and ability to race again.
This surgery will cause Fierceness to miss some important races. He was expected to compete in the Pegasus World Cup at Gulfstream Park in January and the Saudi Cup in February at King Abdulaziz Racecourse. However, Pletcher assured that Fierceness will return to training in February, aiming for some of the biggest Grade 1 races later in the year.
Fierceness’s Record and Future Plans
Fierceness has had an impressive career so far. The horse was named Champion Juvenile Male last year and has a record of 9 races with 5 wins, 1 second-place, and 1 third-place finish. His earnings stand at an impressive $3,856,350.
After his recovery, Fierceness is expected to target major Grade 1 races like the Met Mile and the Whitney Stakes at Saratoga. He is also likely to make a return to the Breeders’ Cup Classic at Del Mar, which is one of the biggest events in the horse racing world.
What’s Next for Fierceness
Although Fierceness’s ankle surgery means he will miss some important winter races, there is still a lot to look forward to. His owners, Mike Repole, and his trainer, Todd Pletcher, are hopeful that the recovery process will go smoothly and that Fierceness will be back in action soon. Once healed, Fierceness will continue to race at the top level and could have a very successful year ahead.
Fierceness’s ankle surgery may have forced him to miss key races this winter, but the horse’s future in racing remains bright. His impressive track record and expected return to Grade 1 races make him one to watch for the rest of the year. Fans of Fierceness can look forward to seeing him race again in top competitions like the Met Mile and the Breeders’ Cup Classic. With his recovery on track, Fierceness is set to return stronger and ready for more victories in the future.