Legendary El Romiachi retired from racing

Danie Toerien

EL ROMIACHI, one of the greatest warriors in the annals of South African racing history, has been retired.

Trainer Zietsman Oosthuizen, who trained the now ten-year-old, confirmed that his legend will race no more.

A gelded son of Elusive Fort out of Silvano mare Scent Of Victory, he inked his name into the global racing records when he won his 100th, 101st and 102nd races in November last year. He is the only horse in the world who has achieved this incredible hat-trick, said Oosthuizen.

“Last Friday was his last race. Unfortunately, he sustained a minor tendon injury, and we decided on the spot to retire him,” said Oosthuizen.

“It’s a bit sad, but if ever there was a horse who earned his retirement, it’s El Romiachi.”

The stalwart from the Eastern Cape ended his career after 123 runs.

In his career he scored 11 wins and placed another 42 times, earning a total of R924 626. Not a bad record for a horse which was bought for a mere R5 000.

“This (his injury) was really his first ‘oops’, so perhaps his body is telling him it’s time to step off the track.

“I doubt whether he will take it easy in his retirement, because he is always busy,” said Oosthuizen.

“He is an absolute legend and has achieved what no other horse before him could.

“Most people want horses who can win the July or the Met, but I would like nothing more than to get another El Romiachi,” said Oosthuizen.

El Romiachi ran his first race on 4 July 2019. It took him a year and 20 attempts to finally exit the maidens, but he rattled off two more wins in his next four outings.

All his victories have come over either 1 400m or 1 600m.

According to Oosthuizen “the old man” still has his playful, fighting spirit, but his body looks to be calling time on his racing career.