Classic-Winning Trainer Clement Dies at 59
Belmont Stakes (G1)-winning trainer Christophe Clement, who had been battling metastatic uveal melanoma, died May 25. He was 59.
A native of Paris, France, Clement trained 2,576 winners, including 24 grade 1 winners—41 grade 1 wins—in a career that began in the United States in 1991. Among his top horses were three-time Eclipse Award winner Gio Ponti and 2014 Belmont Stakes winner Tonalist .
In a prepared statement from Clement posted on his stable’s social media account following his death, the trainer said, “As I reflect on my journey, I realize I never worked a day in my life. Every morning, I woke up and did what I loved most surrounded by so much love.
“This journey started with my wife, Valerie, and six horses. Being a racehorse trainer is far more than a profession; horses have brought me fulfillment, friends, and such wonderful memories.”
This story will be updated.
