Legendary Italian Trotter Varenne Dies at 31

The world of harness racing mourns the loss of Varenne, the Italian trotter widely regarded as the greatest of all time. Known affectionately as 'Il Capitano' (The Captain), Varenne passed away at the age of 31, leaving behind an unparalleled legacy in the sport.

Throughout his illustrious career, Varenne competed in 72 races, achieving victory in an astonishing 63. His winnings exceeded six million euros, a record at the time, surpassing even the American mare Moni Maker. He raced across seven countries on two continents, breaking records for the longest distances covered in harness racing and setting world speed records, including a one-mile time of 1:51.1.

Varenne's dominance was highlighted in 2001 when he became the only European trotter to win the prestigious American Breeders Crown. That same year, he achieved a remarkable feat by winning all the major races in the sport. His exceptional achievements were recognized in 2010 when he was inducted into the Harness Racing Museum & Hall of Fame in New York, a rare honor for a non-American horse.

Despite his eventual success, Varenne's early career was uncertain. Initially deemed unlikely to race due to a leg deformity by several veterinarians, his first owner sold him after just one race, believing he had no future as a racehorse. After retiring from competition, Varenne became a highly sought-after breeding stallion, siring over two thousand offspring and continuing his influence on the sport for generations to come.