'A friend and true champion' - world's highest-earning horse and Hong Kong legend Golden Sixty retires

Golden Sixty, one of Hong Kong's greatest stars and the highest-earning racehorse of all time, has been retired at the age of nine.

Trained by Francis Lui and owned by Stanley Chan, Golden Sixty won 26 races with ten of those coming at Group 1 level, both of which are records in Hong Kong. He was also named Hong Kong Horse of the Year three times.

He won the Hong Kong Miles three times, including when a sublime winner in December. However, he finished fourth when bidding for a historic four-timer in the Champions Mile in April and after suffering from minor leg issues since, connections have called time on his career.

Chan said: "Golden Sixty has been more than just a racehorse to me and my family. He has been a companion, a friend, and a true champion. Watching him compete has been one of the greatest joys of my life.

"I want to thank everyone who has been a part of his journey – his dedicated team, the fans and, most importantly, Golden Sixty himself for giving us unforgettable moments."

Golden Sixty: won the Hong Kong Mile for the third time in 2023Credit: Edward Whitaker (racingpost.com/photos)

Lui added: "It has been an honour to train such an extraordinary horse. Golden Sixty has brought immense pride to our stable and to Hong Kong racing. His fighting heart is unmatched. I will always cherish the memories we created."

Vincent Ho partnered Golden Sixty in all of his 31 starts, dating back to his debut at Sha Tin in March 2019. Aside from their Group 1 triumphs, the duo were also famously beaten at odds of 1-100 by old rival Waikuku in the 2022 Stewards' Cup.

"It’s been a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to ride such an amazing horse," Ho said. "He's not just a phenomenal athlete but also a horse with a big heart. I want to thank him for trusting me on the track and for all the incredible experiences we shared.

"Over the years, I have tried to enjoy every moment when riding him, no matter during races or trackwork. He'll always hold a very special place in my heart."

Golden Sixty retires having earned more than £16.3 million in prize-money and the Hong Kong Jockey Club will host a retirement ceremony for him at Sha Tin's meeting on September 22.

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