Melbourne Cup champion Vow And Declare has been officially retired, concluding a remarkable and celebrated racing career. The decision to retire the nine-year-old gelding was made by his owners and trainer Danny O’Brien following his 50th and final appearance in last Saturday’s Pakenham Cup.
Managing owner Geoff Corrigan reflected on the bittersweet moment, describing it as both emotional and celebratory. “He has taken us on a once-in-a-lifetime journey that we will be forever grateful for, but the highlight for me will be the fact that he is retiring 100% sound and will have a fabulous life post racing,”Corrigan said.
Part-owner and breeder Paul Lanskey shared his heartfelt appreciation for Vow And Declare, acknowledging the horse’s extraordinary accomplishments. “He has been such a terrific horse for such a long period, it is really humbling to have been part of his journey,” Lanskey said.
Trainer Danny O’Brien expressed his deep gratitude, emphasising the significance of Vow And Declare’s achievements. “Winning the Melbourne Cup is what we all aspire to and it is a moment that I will cherish forever,” O’Brien remarked. He also highlighted the importance of the horse’s victory, noting how it showcased the enduring possibility of winning the iconic race with an Australian-bred horse.
“Every year there are less and less in the Cup that have been bred here, which is why Cups like his, and this year’s as well, underline what is so great about the race and our industry.” “I am proud of the horse and the job my team has done with Vow. To have him performing at the highest level as three-year-old all the way through to winning in track record time this past winter in Queensland is a testament to their dedication and commitment.”
Fans of Vow And Declare will have the chance to bid him farewell at Geelong Racecourse, one of his home tracks, during the club’s standalone Saturday meeting on January 4. Details about the farewell event will be shared closer to the date.
Vow And Declare’s Career at a Glance
Starts: 50
Wins: 6
Placings: 8 seconds, 4 thirds
Prizemoney: $7,701,170
Major Achievements:
- 1st: Group 1 Melbourne Cup (2019, Flemington)
- 1st: Group 2 Zipping Classic (2022, Caulfield)
- 1st: Group 3 Tatts Cup (2019 & 2024, Eagle Farm)
- 1st: Listed Connoisseur Stakes (2018, Flemington)
- 2nd: Group 1 Caulfield Cup (2019, Caulfield)
- 2nd: Group 1 Queensland Derby (2019, Eagle Farm)
- 2nd: Group 1 Caulfield Stakes (2023, Caulfield)
- 2nd: Group 2 Moonee Valley Cup (2023, Moonee Valley)
- 2nd: Group 2 Peter Young Stakes (2024, Caulfield)
- 3rd: Group 1 Australian Cup (2020, Flemington)
