Overview

• Patches O’Houlihan was humanely euthanized on July 10 after suffering a soft tissue injury during his Grade 2 Highlander Stakes win on June 28 at Woodbine Racetrack.
• The five-year-old Ontario-bred gelding amassed 13 victories and one runner-up finish in 16 career starts and was named Canada’s Horse of the Year in 2024.
• Owner and breeder Frank Di Giulio Jr. cited ongoing consultations with veterinary specialists and surgeons who concluded that surgery would not offer a sustainable quality of life.
• Trainer Bob Tiller, jockey Sofia Vives and the Woodbine team joined connections and fans in mourning a horse celebrated for his heart and consistency on the track.
• Woodbine veterinarians affirmed the primary diagnosis of debilitating soft tissue damage, countering social media reports that cited a severe suspensory injury.