It is with a heavy heart Godolphin Australia announce the passing of former Darley stallion, Lonhro.
“A wonderful contributor to the Australian racing and breeding worlds, and as ‘the people’s champion’ Lonhro will be forever remembered for what he was able to achieve on the racetrack,” said Godolphin Australia’s Corporate Director, Ross Cole.
“Lonhro had a huge and well-earned following, and he earnt the admiration and respect of everyone within our Godolphin teams over his years as a Darley stallion and in his retirement. We were honoured to have him as part of our operation.”
Born at Woodlands on Thursday, 10 December 1998, the striking black colt by Octagonal and the seventh foal of Shadea, was described on his foaling sheet as ‘tiny but perfect’.
A glittering 35-start career, the winner of 11 G1 races, 24 at Group level and 26 overall victories, Lonhro won the cream of races in Australia: Caulfield Guineas, Caulfield Stakes (twice), Mackinnon Stakes, Chipping Norton, George Ryder, Queen Elizabeth, CF Orr, Chipping Norton and George Main Stakes.
Arguably, Lonhro’s most stunning race performance came in the 2004 Australian Cup (2,000m) at Flemington under Champion jockey Darren Beadman.
“People still approach me in 2024 to discuss the Australian Cup, it’s a testament to how he captured so many people’s imagination, which speaks volumes about his career,” said Beadman.
Champion jockey Darren Beadman remembers his three Australian Cup victories, with his win on Lonhro in 2004 not only his favourite, but also one of the most memorable in the race’s long and decorated history. #SuperSaturday pic.twitter.com/7DXvPAp2bD
— Victoria Racing Club (@FlemingtonVRC) March 6, 2019
“It’s a very sad day. It was a shock when Ross (Cole) rang and told me. It brought a tear to my eye. It’s a very, very sad day, but we must reflect on what he has achieved.”
“He will be a horse that everyone talks about for generations to come, remembered not just for his victories on the track but also for being the people’s horse.”
“He was very dynamic in his racing career, his acceleration, and the way he won with superiority and toughness. He oozed class. He was the class with a capital C.”
“From his early days as a two-year-old right through the Queen Elizabeth Stakes, he raced every race giving 110 per cent, every time he went around. That's all you can ask of him.”
“For five or six years, those who got to witness his expertise on the track could then see him excel in the breeding barn, being as consistent and influential as he was. He’s ticked every box; not many horses have that resume.”
“I was there at his 21st. It was a special day and that moment we got to spend together will be something I will always remember.”
