Godolphin Australia’s recently appointed Godolphin Lifetime Care (GLC) flagbearer Kementari will make a special race-day appearance at Royal Randwick’s Industry Celebrations Day on Saturday, 29 July before heading off to pursue an off-the-track career.
Kementari will lead the field around the theatre of the horse for the Godolphin Lifetime Care-sponsored race – Race 7 jumping at 2:50pm – the GLC flagbearer will be on course for a meet and greet and pictures with fans from 1:30pm to 3:45pm in stall #34 to celebrate the versatility of the thoroughbred breed and the horses’ official birthday on Tuesday, 1 August.
Australian Turf Club Head of Racing and Wagering James Ross said the Club’s Love Of The Horse program was a crucial part of Industry Recognition Day at Royal Randwick.
“Kementari was a popular horse during his racing career, and we are pleased to join with Godolphin in showcasing him to fans as he enjoys a healthy and long retirement,” Mr Ross said.
Godolphin Australia’s Racing and Bloodstock Manager Jason Walsh said: “The flagbearer program promotes the thoroughbred breed, its versatility and life after racing which complements the GLC program’s objective of creating awareness, passion and care for the thoroughbred.”
“The thoroughbreds’ versatility has been gaining increased acknowledgment, evidenced by the recent announcement that the Thoroughbred breed will now be recognised in the starting lists and results beginning with the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris.”
A beloved figure of the Australian racetracks, Kementari forms part of an extraordinary group of racehorses placed by Godolphin to promote the versatility of the thoroughbred breed in various post-racing endeavours, GLC flagbearers include Hartnell, Osborne Bulls, Hauraki, It's Somewhat, Avilius, Best of Days and Trekking.
Walsh said while it was sad to see Kementari’s race career come to a close, his pursuits as an off-the-track thoroughbred will be followed by his legion of fans.
“Kementari has all the attributes required to pursue a successful career as an off-the-track horse; we received a great deal of interest with people putting up their hand to become his custodian for this next chapter, this person will be selected in the near future.”
“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.”
“Saturday at Randwick presents a great opportunity for the industry to celebrate the thoroughbred and having Kementari on course to represent Godolphin Lifetime Care and the thoroughbred as a breed is fantastic.”
