It seems impossible to think that a little more than four months ago Kip Deville, the 2007 Breeders' Cup Mile victor and four-time grade I winner, was in seemingly fine health and competing in a graded stakes race at Saratoga.

Now, the 6-year-old son of Kipling–the horse that put prominent Thoroughbred owners IEAH Stables on the map–is fighting for his life. And unfortunately, at this point, it seems like it is a losing battle.

According to IEAH president Mike Iavarone, Kip Deville's health struggles surfaced about two months ago, beginning with what was thought to be a routine bout of colic. But over time, the colic progressed into the troublesome foot disease laminitis–which can be loosely described as an inflammation of the hoof that in many cases causes lameness and severe deterioration of the foot. At that point, Kip Deville was moved to Rood and Riddle Equine Hospital near Lexington and is currently being cared for by Dr. Scott Hopper.

In a Dec. 9 interview, Iavarone said Kip Deville's condition has not improved. "He is still in extremely guarded condition," commented Iavarone, who said the laminitis is mainly in the left front foot. "The laminitis has progressed, unfortunately. We're doing everything humanly possible, but he is in critical condition