MR SKILL, who thrilled racing fans with his speed and will to win, died in his stall last Friday evening at Caymanas Park following a brief illness.

Trained by Lawrence Freemantle, the eight-year-old son of Alisios-Unatural developed stomach problems last Tuesday, and although treated for the ailment by noted vet Dr Aston Marsh, his illness proved fatal.

Freemantle, who won 12 races with MR SKILL since acquiring him from many-time champion trainer Wayne DaCosta some two years ago, said his untimely death was a bitter pill to swallow.

"This horse defied the odds, for the most part, to win seven races for me last year, even though he wasn't the type I could train in a conventional manner," said Freemantle.

"In a way, he placed me on the map by winning so many races for me up to the overnight allowance level, and at the time of his death had won 22 races from 55 starts and just over $10 million in stakes lifetime," added Freemantle.

MR SKILL raced for the 55th and last time on January 30, showing his usual dash in finishing third to the unbeaten American filly CITY FLIGHT over the straight in overnight company, under customary rider Shane Ellis.

"He will forever be remembered as one of the fastest horses to grace the track," said Freemantle.

- O.C.