The connections of last year’s J.J. Liston Stakes winner Predatory Pricer are in shock after the news that the retired galloper was found dead at his agistment stable in Eremein Park, New South Wales on Wednesday morning.

A four time Group 1 placegetter, Predatory Pricer won the 2009 Group 2 JJ Liston Stakes at Caulfield and despite an injury marred career had shown early promise this Spring Racing Carnival with a first-up second to Shoot Out in the Liston.

However, the son of Street Cry suffered an infected tendon after his Liston Stakes second place and was retired to serve at stud, connections including trainer Mick Price having to abandon dreams of Predatory Pricer claiming Group 1 glory.

Having received treatment for the infection at the Werribee veterinary clinic, the stallion was reportedly in good health when arriving at Eremein Park before being his untimely death.

A cause of death is still not known, with a post mortem to be conducted by the end of the week.

Predatory Pricer raced 18 times for four wins, three seconds and three third place finishes earning $814,650 in prize money.