Popcorn Deelites, one of a number of crossbreeds that portrayed the depressive hero Seabiscuit in the 2003 Oscar-nominated film, has died.
24-year-old Gelding, who had a moderate racing career in most competitions, retired to Old Friends, a mature retirement farm in Georgetown, Ky. .
Michael Blowen, founder and president of the nonprofit, announced that gelding had passed away on January 20. The cause of death was complications from abdominal pain.
‘Pops,’ a bloody gulf Seabiscuit, appears in many scenes throughout the film, including the epic battle against the winner of the Triple Crown War Admiral.
He returned to racing after filming for owner David Hoffman and air conditioner Pricilla Leon, both of whom were instrumental in retiring Popcorn Deelites to Old Friends when his career ended.
In total, Popcorn Deelites has started 58 times and has 11 wins with a career earnings of $56,880.
Racer Gary Stevens, who played legendary racer George Woolf in Seabiscuit, remembers his co-star fondly.
“Popcorn Deelites is a star in Seabiscuit,” said Stevens, who is now a racing analyst for Fox Sports. “He was my companion in all the big shoots. Not only did he win real races many times, but he also won the famous match race while playing Seabiscuit. He was kind, quick, and quick. and a great friend who lived to the fullest at Old Friends on the Lawn beside my other friend, Silver Charm,” added Stevens, referring to the horse he rode to win the battle. Kentucky Derby (G1) race in 1997, is also an old friend retired. “RIP, popcorn.”
“The Hollywood history of Pop music has made him one of his absolute fan favorites,” says Blowen. “But what really impressed people was his warm personality and friendly demeanor. The fans loved him and he loved the fans too. He will be greatly missed here on the page. camp,” Blowen added, “but I’m sure his old friend and Breeder mate, the Special Ring, will miss him the most.”
