After discussions with the ownership group, we have made the decision to retire the reigning Australian Champion Hurdler, Saunter Boy. He retires as the winner of 11 hurdle races from 17 starts, including an incredible clean sweep of five feature races last season. He came to our stable as a 7yo, winning his Maiden hurdle in August 2020, and has gone on to dominate the hurdles ever since. While his list of achievements is incredible, it’s his lovely nature and toughness that left the greatest impression on Ciaron and the team. “He’s been an absolute gentleman of a horse. Incredibly genuine, carried heavy weights and he’s given his owners and our staff so much joy over the past four years,” said Ciaron on Thursday. “Jumps racing extended his career and brought out the best in him, and he retires as one of the most impressive horses I’ve ever trained.” Steve Pateman, who partnered Saunter Boy in nine of his 11 wins over the hurdles was similarly effusive in his praise. “It’s the end of an era. He’s a beautiful horse that always knew when he was on the big stage. He was a classic hurdler, always quick out over them and landed running,” said Pateman. “He rejuvenated my career and retires as possibly the best hurdler we’ve seen in decades.” In a footnote to his career, he will be rehomed by Steve & Jess Pateman at their Barwon Heads property, where he will be rightfully spoiled in retirement. Saunter Boy retires with the below achievements, a Champion in every sense of the word. 2021 & 2022 AJRA Champion Hurdler ‘22 & ‘23 Galleywood winner ‘22 Grand National Hurdle winner ‘22 Brendan Dreschler winner ‘22 MJ Bourke Hurdle winner ‘21 & ‘22 Australian Hurdle winner ‘21 JJ Houlahan winner ‘21 Kevin Lafferty Hurdle winner
