It was announced on Monday that he had been forced to retire due to serious health issues and he was to leave hospital to spend his final days with his family at his home in Louisville, Kentucky.
Lukas died on Saturday evening and a statement from his family on www.churchilldowns.com read: âIt is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of legendary Hall of Fame trainer D. Wayne Lukas.
âWayne dedicated his life to Thoroughbred racingânot only through his unmatched success on the track, but through his impact on the people within it. He shaped generations of horsemen and horsewomen, and helped grow the sport with his passion, vision, and leadership.
âWhether he was touting a promising two-year-old or quietly offering advice before a big race, Wayne brought heart, grace, and grit to every part of the game.
âAt this time, we ask you to please join us in a moment of silence to honour the memory of D. Wayne Lukas.â
Lukas, who was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1999, won the Kentucky Derby four times among his 15 Triple Crown race wins and had 20 victories at the Breedersâ Cup, a record matched only by Aidan OâBrien.
It had already been announced that long-serving assistant, Englishman Sebastian âBasâ Nicholl will take over the running of his stable.
