“Was Such a Privilege”: Horse Racing Fans Bid Final Goodbye to World’s No. 1 Horse After Emotional Retirement Ceremony

Equinox is a name that echoes far and wide through the horse racing community. Despite a 3-year career, the 4-year-old had records and stature to be tagged ‘World’s rest racehorse’. However, to the disappointment of thousands, the celebrated equine made his exit from the field later in November. Almost a month to the announcement and days to his ceremony, the bittersweet emotions still linger around the fans.

Following the 4-year-old’s glorious Japan Cup win, Equinox’s connections boarded multiple options on the table. But on the 30th, the ultimate decision revealed that he would be retiring to stud duties starting in 2024. The community, however, ensured to put forth a ceremony for Equinox, honoring his legacy before he moved on. And the occasion carried the hearts of thousands.

Equinox receives a warming ceremony

The Tetsuya Kimura-trained equine has never been rid of his fans’ love. According to his trainer, Equinox received letters right from the elementary school children and those older. The love only extended when received a glistening send-off on the 16th of December. As he was paraded on the tracks of Nakayama Racecourse, thousands gathered to watch him tap his final lap.

Days to the ceremony and horse racing enthusiasts haven’t stopped reminiscing. “Miss EQUINOX’s retirement ceremony last weekend? Watch as thousands flock to Nakayama to celebrate the horse likely to be crowned the world’s best racehorse of 2023!” World Horse Racing posted on Facebook.

With a rating of 129, Equinox currently leads the Longines World’s Best Race Horse rankings. Following the announcement scheduled for January, the horse will make his way to his retirement home. Aware of the time closing in, enthusiasts couldn’t stop gushing over the horse racing fame.

The horse racing community gathers to pen notes

Through his 4 year career, Equinox was quick to stun the community. Having won 8 of his 10 starts, the colt ensured to turn heads with his stature. A fan resonated the same as he commented, “Absolute beauty. Has class and elegance. Was such a privilege to see you running. Goodbye champ.” While another wrote, “That horse is stunning. He has the “eye of the tiger.”

Also Read: “Thank You”: After Japan Cup Victory, Trainer Shares Heartfelt Message with Equinox’s Fans

Japan’s reigning horse of the year majorly dominated the nation’s horse racing scenes alone; infusing sorrow among the rest. “What a stunning horse. Sad that we in Europe didn’t get to see him race here. But that’s racing for you,” one wrote. Another expressed, “Sadly Missed. The best ever is gone.” Finally, wishing the best for the future, a fan exclaimed, “Happy retirement to a great one!” Equinox will be moved to Shadai Stallion Station, where he is set to mate with Almond Eye.

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