Superstar sprinter Imperatriz retired
Imperatriz, the illustrious 10-time Group 1 champion, has concluded her racing career, with plans underway for the rising six-year-old mare to transition into a broodmare come next spring, as confirmed by Te Akau Racing principal David Ellis.
Ellis expressed his sentiments, stating, “Imperatriz has been a magnificent race mare, I loved her from the time I set eyes on her at the Magic Millions’ sale. What she has done since has firmly established her as one of the very best race mares Australasia has seen in recent times.”
“From a filly that was the last to sell as a yearling, she became a Champion racehorse and when Karyn and I saw her win her second Group 1 William Reid at Moonee Valley last month, we couldn’t believe the crowd’s adulation for her, The Valley was a sea of tangerine.
“Her tenacity, courage and sheer determination, combined with the sweetest nature you could imagine, have certainly won the hearts of fans worldwide.
“The joy she has brought to her owners is indescribable.”
Explaining the rationale behind the decision, Ellis highlighted the mare’s welfare as the paramount concern.
“Te Akau always puts the well-being of our horses first. The indications are that another high-level racing preparation would not be in her best interests, so whilst sad, the decision is very straightforward.
“Her welfare is our top priority, and she will retire a happy and sound horse.”
Imperatriz, sired by the esteemed I Am Invincible and purchased by Ellis for $360,000 at the 2020 Gold Coast Premier sales, amassed an impressive career earnings of nearly $7 million from 19 victories and four placings out of 27 starts.
After an initial 17 races in New Zealand, Imperatriz made her return to Australia last autumn, embarking on a remarkable winning streak that included six consecutive victories, five of which were at the Group 1 level.
Her illustrious career culminated with a remarkable 10th Group 1 triumph in the William Reid Stakes (1200m) at Moonee Valley before her final outing at the TJ Smith Stakes last Saturday.
Imperatriz retires with the distinction of being the second-highest Group 1 winner for Te Akau Racing, with her remarkable tally of 10 victories at the elite level trailing only behind the former star, Melody Belle.