The Curragh confirm a special tribute to Michael’s Owen’s most famous horse

Michael Owen may not like films, but he does like racehorses.

And this morning the kind folk at the Curragh have announced that one of the best horses to grace the Kildare track in recent years will have a listed race dedicated in his honour later this year. Brown Panther stormed to victory in the Irish St Ledger in September of 2014, but just 12 months later the horse died trying to defend its title at the same track. Owen was naturally devastated at the time at the passing of a horse that was hugely popular and always well fancied. He described the horse’s death as the "saddest day of my life". But Monday the former England striker may have taken some consolation from the news that a race in honour of the late horse will take place at the Kildare track later this year. Race goers will be able to observe the memorial race on 9th October and the race is understood to be a 1 mile 4 furlong run. Owen has commented on today’s news and has said that he is delighted with the honour.

"He was a wonderful horse and to lose him was heartbreaking. His greatest triumph was at the Curragh so I'd like to thank them for this tribute in his memory."