Australian racing is in need of a new cult hero following the retirement of Kementari.
Godolphin announced late on Monday afternoon that the rising nine-year-old had run his last race, just one start short of his 50th racetrack appearance.
The son of Lonhro’s eighth placing in The Goodwood earlier this month was his final start with Godolphin feeling the time was right to bring down the curtain on the popular gelding’s racing career.
“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 G1 Goodwood Handicap at Morphettville,” Godolphin Australia racing manager Jason Walsh said.
“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.”
Kementari, who had his first start in May 2017, retires a winner of eight races, the biggest of which was the Group 1 Randwick Guineas in 2018.
He also won twice at Group 2 level and three Group 3 events, while he was also placed five times at Group 1 level, including second placings in the 2017 Caulfield Guineas, 2018 Memsie Stakes and 2019 C F Orr Stakes.
Kementari was retired to stud after finishing last in the Canterbury Stakes in March 2019, but produced just six live foals and was gelded and returned to the track in March 2020 after which he won four times, including a Group 2 Gilgai Stakes, Group 3 Scahill Stakes and Group 3 Hall Mark Stakes.
Kementari’s life after racing will be spent as the flagbearer for Godolphin’s Lifetime Care program.
“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,” Walsh said.
“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.”