Charismatic Lonhro gelding Kementari has run his last race for Godolphin and has been officially retired.
A Group I winner of over $3.5million, Kementari was initially retired to stud much earlier in his career as a colt, but after covering 54 mares at Darley headquarters at Kelvinside and getting only two in foal he was gelded and returned to training.
Kementari raced on successfully under the care of James Cummings and retires as an eight year-old with eight wins and 14 placings from 49 starts with his highlight win coming in the Group I ATC Randwick Guineas.
“Every indication he gave us at home was he loved his training and all his personality and character was still evident,” said Godolphin Australian Racing Manager, Jason Walsh.
“He’s a high-class horse who has consistently thrilled us with some remarkable performances in the top races in Australia.”
After his extraordinary journey, Kementari will now have a spell 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.”
Footnote: The two foals sired by Kementari are now two year-olds, a filly called La Seule trained by Chris Waller and a colt called Manwe trained by Anthony Cummings.
