Kementari, a beloved figure and fan favourite in the Godolphin stable has been retired from racing and will now become the latest flagbearer for the Godolphin Lifetime Care program.
Together with Hartnell, Osborne Bulls, Hauraki, It's Somewhat, Avilius, Best of Days and Trekking, he forms part of an extraordinary group of racehorses placed by Godolphin to promote the versatility of the thoroughbred breed in various post-racing endeavours.
In recent times, the Sydney Royal event featured It's Somewhat, winner of the Group 1 Doncaster Handicap, who put up a commendable performance and came close to securing victory.
Hartnell, a distinguished four-time Group 1 Champion, emerged triumphant when securing multiple qualifications for the upcoming Melbourne, Adelaide and Sydney Royal Agricultural Shows.
Kementari is a magnificent son of the mighty Lonhro out of the multiple Group 1-producing mare Yavanna. He was the winner of six Group races including the Group 1 Randwick Guineas.
Godolphin Australia Racing Manager Jason Walsh said, “Kementari is in great order, as always presents magnificently and is very healthy, but regardless of that our decision is still to retire him following his recent run in the Group 1 Goodwood Handicap at Morphettville.”
“Every indication he gave us at home was he loved his training and all his personality and character was still evident,”
“He's a high-class horse who has consistently thrilled us with some remarkable performances in the top races in Australia” Walsh said.
After his extraordinary journey, Kementari will now take a well-deserved break at Kelvinside before beginning his new role as a flagbearer for Godolphin Lifetime Care.
“The first priority is the horse gets all the care and has a wonderful life, post-racing,” Walsh said.
“The flagbearer program promotes the thoroughbred breed, its versatility and life after racing.
“The thoroughbreds' versatility has been gaining increased acknowledgment, evidenced by the recent announcement that the breed will be honoured and featured in several Olympic events this year.”
Walsh said it will be sad to see Kementari finally walk out the stable door.
“As much for his racing ability, he was a pleasure to have around the stable and he'll be sorely missed for that reason.”
“He's a horse that has touched the hearts of many across the organisation, not just in the stables, but also the people who have cared for him in his spelling and through his development. He has always cut a striking figure, but it is the combination of all his attributes that has meant he has endeared himself to everyone who has had anything to do with him.”
“I'm sure there'll be many people out there who'll be very willing to give him a pat and thank him for his contribution. We look forward to seeing what he can do when enjoying the next part of his career.”