Champion Racehorse Tom's d'Etat Passes Away at 13
The equestrian world mourns the loss of Tom's d'Etat, a magnificent racehorse whose untimely demise at 13 years old marks the end of a remarkable career. After a short period of illness, the champion, renowned for his tenacity and impressive victories, has left a legacy of triumph, most notably securing GMB Racing's first Grade 1 title. His contributions to the sport, both on the track and in breeding, will be long remembered by enthusiasts and professionals alike.
Celebrated Racehorse Tom's d'Etat Concludes Illustrious Life at 13
October 11, 2026 – The racing community is saddened by the news of Tom's d'Etat's passing at the age of 13. The stallion, a prominent figure in GMB Racing's stable, owned by Gayle Benson of New Orleans Saints and Pelicans fame, succumbed to a short illness. The announcement was made by Greg Bensel on behalf of GMB Racing, who also extended gratitude to trainer Al Stall Jr., Jay Adcock, and WinStar Farm, where Tom's d'Etat had commenced his breeding career.
Bred by SF Bloodstock in Kentucky, Tom's d'Etat, a son of Smart Strike and Julia Tuttle, was acquired for $330,000 at the 2014 Keeneland September Yearling Sale. He was among the initial yearlings purchased by Tom and Gayle Benson for their newly formed GMB Racing operation. His competitive debut was delayed, with his stakes career flourishing later in life. Following a 15-month hiatus, he made a triumphant return with an allowance victory at Churchill Downs, subsequently clinching the Tenacious Stakes at Fair Grounds on December 22, 2018, as a 5-year-old.
The year 2019 saw a significant escalation in his performance. He triumphed in the Alydar Stakes at Saratoga and the Fayette Stakes (G2) at Keeneland, culminating in a dominant win at the Clark Stakes (G1) on November 29 at Churchill Downs. Under the masterful guidance of jockey Joel Rosario, he asserted his superiority by pulling away to a 3 ¼-length victory, pushing his career earnings beyond the million-dollar mark.
At seven years old, Tom's d'Etat continued his winning ways, capturing the Oaklawn Mile before securing the Stephen Foster Stakes (G2) at Churchill Downs. His Foster victory by 4 ¼ lengths earned him an exceptional 109 Beyer Speed Figure. This marked his fourth consecutive win, a streak that concluded with his participation in the Whitney Stakes (G1) at Saratoga. His final racecourse appearance was in the 2020 Breeders' Cup Classic at Keeneland.
Throughout his career, Tom's d'Etat achieved 11 wins from 20 starts, accumulating over $1.7 million in prize money. He embarked on his stud career at WinStar Farm in 2021, and his legacy continues through his progeny. Notably, Take Charge Tom, from his inaugural crop, became his first graded stakes winner by claiming the 2025 Canadian Derby (G3).
The journey of Tom's d'Etat serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring spirit and majestic beauty of thoroughbred racing. His late-blooming success and consistent excellence on the track demonstrated that true talent can shine brightest when given the opportunity to develop. His passing, while sorrowful, highlights the deep connections formed between these magnificent animals and the people who train, own, and adore them. His impact, both as a competitor and now as a sire, will resonate within the sport for generations, inspiring future champions and cementing his place in racing history.