World champion pacing stallion Downbytheseaside underwent emergency colic surgery late last week and is currently in recovery.

According to a report by the U.S. Trotting Association, the seven-year-old stallion had just travelled Down Under to stand at Woodlands Stud for the breeding season when veterinarians identified the issue.

“It’s obviously early but he’s on the improve right now," Diamond Creek Farm's Adam Bowden was quoted as saying in the USTA article. "He’s back in quarantine from the hospital now. I don’t know that he’s out of the woods yet, but at this point, all signs are pointing up. I’m getting updates every six to eight hours and so far they have all been positive. I saw pictures of him in a video and all the vitals seem good at this point, so it’s looking good.”

Bowden said the quick actions of the veterinarians likely saved Downbytheseaside's life as a small section of his small intestine was compromised and removed during the surgery on Thursday, Aug. 19.

The 2017 U.S. Pacer of the Year, who previously suffered a small bout of colic during his return flight to the States last year, stands in Ohio at Sugar Valley Farm as well. The status of his season Down Under at Woodlands, which included a book of 375-400 mares, is dependent on his recovery.

The first crop of Downbytheseaside has been extremely successful thus far, as his 2021 two-year-olds are currently leading the North American harness racing standings on the pacing side. From 68 starters, the 2021 crop of Downbytheseaside has earned nearly $1.2 million as of press time, trailing only fellow first crop stallion Walner.