“Happy Retirement Boy”: Horse Racing Fans Cheer as World’s no.1 Horse Gathers for Auspicious Occasion

Equinox was undeniably one of the best athletes if not the best of his era. The winner of 8 races out of his 10 starts was quick to win hearts in the horse racing community. Dubai Sheema Classic, Tenno Sho, and Japan Cup make up a small portion of the celebrated equine’s glorious career. But to the disappointment of thousands, the fans will no longer get to witness the star’s graceful stride, stature, and speed.

Later last month, after his win at the Japan Cup, the 4-year-old’s connections announced his retirement from the field. But before he moved, the ‘world’s best horse,’ was brought to receive the honors it deserved. And receive did he not just in the form of officiating ceremony but through the love of thousands.

Equinox retires with a gleaming sendoff

On the 16th, Japan’s horse racing authorities brought forth a ceremony to retire the beloved equine with respect and love. At Nakayama Racecourse thousands gathered to send the horse to his retirement house. “Equinox was physically and mentally amazing,” jockey Lemaire said. “Thanks to everyone, he has become a wonderful horse and is the number one in the world. I’ll never forget the way Equinox ran and his performances.” Upon completing the ceremony, Equinox made a little run towards the gate, pulling a reaction online.

With that very instinct still in place, the 4-year-old will be retired to stud duties starting 2024. According to reports, he will be moving to Shadai Stallion Station as the most expensive first-season sire in Japanese horse racing history. Owing to a visibly glorious career, Equinox was never short of love and admiration from the spectators.

The horse racing enthusiasts send their love

One of the fans, enthusiastic about having watched Equinox in action, proudly showered praise over the boy. “absolutely magnificent!” he wrote.

Another one of the fans showcased how ‘perfect’ the atmosphere had been at the occasion with an image. “so many ppl here to cheer the champ off,” the user happily wrote.

Content with Equinox’s horse racing records and accepting of the future, a fan extended his well-intended wishes. “Happy retirement boy,” the post read.

A fan, stating true of the horse’s stature wrote how “majestic,” Equinox looked as he made his final run on the grounds.

Also Read: Video: Teary Eyed Jockey and Japan Cup Winner Equinox Receives Heartwarming Cheer By ‘Tokyo Crowd’

As the love poured in, one spoke for many of the horse racing enthusiasts. He remarked, “Should have ran him one more year… Best Horse I’ve seen this Century on pure talent.” 

However, before he officially moves, Equinox is set to be honored as the Longines World’s Best Racehorse. A title very well deserved.

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