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Saintly,
"The Horse from Heaven", was retired on Sunday 19 July 1998, after breaking
down again whilst being prepared for a comeback from a bowed tendon he
incurred in February 1997 after winning the CF Orr Stakes.
He will be remembered for winning the Cox Plate and the Melbourne Cup in
the one year, his brilliant acceleration and long stride, and his great
duels with his 3yo rival Octagonal. Saintly's 4 Group 1 wins included
the Australian Cup, Cox Plate, Melbourne Cup and CF Orr Stakes. He
travelled to Japan for the Japan Cup, but the 24 hour trip resulted in
severe travel sickness and he was withdrawn on the eve of the race.
He was bred, trained and owned by Bart Cummings, who sold a part share
to his good friend Dato Chin Nan. He was ridden by Darren Beadman
in all his Group 1 wins, and throughout his 4yo career. Larry Cassidy
and Patrick Payne rode him during some of his 3yo races. His premature
breakdown and retirement is a tragedy for Australian Racing, and he rates
as possibly the best horse I have photographed, and a great favourite of
mine.
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