Kentucky Derby winner who once drew N.J.’s largest racing crowd dies

Funny Cide, a Kentucky Derby and Preakness-winning racehorse, has died at 23 from complications of colic.

In memory of the beloved FUNNY CIDE (Distorted Humor), who died Sunday from complications of colic. He was 23. Winner of the 2003 Kentucky Derby and Preakness Stakes, a champion, but most importantly, a beacon of hope and inspiration for all who knew him. He will be missed.

In 2003, 53,638 people showed up to the Haskell Invitational Handicap at Monmouth Park to watch Funny Cide. At the time, it was the largest crowd in New Jersey racing history. That number has since been eclipsed: Triple Crown winner American Pharoah drew 60,983 when he won the Haskell in 2015.

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Jose Santos Jr., son of Funny Cide’s jockey, Jose Santos, Sunday:

Funny Cide, you meant so much to not just my family, but the racing community. You will be remembered by most for your grit, determination, will to win and being the champion no one could have expected. By me, you will be remembered for the moments you gave our family. You are a family member to me. I felt so much comfort knowing if I was having a bad day I could get in the car to drive an hour to come see you. It hurts to know I’ve lost that, but I will never lose the memories you gave me, as well as the love I have for you. Fly high champion. You mean more to me than I can ever put into words. I love you Funny