Group 1 winner Baraqiel has been retired from racing following a sesamoid injury sustained in the Group 1 William Reid Stakes on March 21.
Bennett Racing confirmed the decision on Tuesday morning, opting against surgery in favour of ensuring the gelding enjoys a quality life post-racing.
“We organised a meeting with Troy and Will yesterday. We thought the best for the horse was to avoid the surgery and give him a good quality of life,”
“We didn’t want anything to happen to him while the surgery happened. So we have decided to retire him.
“He has been a warhorse for us and he deserves a good life. He didn’t race until he was five and he has had problem after problem.
“He is a warrior and he means so much to us. We love him he will always hold a special place in the Bennett Racing family
“I want to thank the owners for sticking with us as well as Troy, Will and the team at Malua who trained Baraqiel to win a Group 1. We’re grateful for all of their efforts.”
Trainer Troy Corstens admitted the decision had been an emotional one for all involved.
“I did a voiceover this morning and held myself together,” he told The Verdict podcast.
“He has just been such a special horse for the stable, and for connections.
“He was tough.
“I wish every horse in our stable had his will to try.”
Corstens revealed that multiple expert opinions were sought before the final call was made.
“I would never, ever put the horse at risk,” he said.
“If he did something that was irreversible, I’d never forgive myself.”
Baraqiel’s career was hampered by recurring issues, limiting him to just 15 starts, but he made the most of his opportunities with eight victories.
His standout performance came with his win in the Group 1 Moir Stakes (1000m) last year.
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