Melbourne Cup hero Without A Fight has been officially retired from racing, just days before he was expected to begin a winter campaign in Brisbane.
The Anthony and Sam Freedman-trained stayer won a 1500m trial at Caulfield Heath on Thursday morning, but shortly afterwards, connections decided to call time on his outstanding career.
Without A Fight carved his name into racing folklore by winning the 2023 Caulfield Cup and Melbourne Cup, becoming one of the few to complete the rare Cups double. The Freedmans paid tribute to the gelding in a heartfelt statement, expressing gratitude to owner Sheikh Mohammed Obaid Al Maktoum.
Initially trained in the UK by Simon and Ed Crisford, Without A Fight debuted in Australia in the 2022 Melbourne Cup, finishing 13th behind Gold Trip.
He remained in Australia under the guidance of the Freedman stable and found immediate success, winning the Group 3 Lord Mayor’s Cup and Group 2 Q22 in Brisbane before his landmark 2023 spring that culminated in Cups glory.
Following a tendon injury, the gelding had a light 2024, returning for a third-place effort in the Group 1 Champions Stakes and later heading to Hong Kong, where he finished near the rear in the Group 1 Hong Kong Vase (2400m), his final start.
Thursday’s trial had been a lead-up for a tilt at the Group 1 Doomben Cup (2000m), but the team opted to retire the horse instead.
“He has been an absolute gentleman to have in the stable and will be remembered as one of the finest stayers of his generation,” the Freedmans said in a statement.
“His Cups double not only delivered the pinnacle of our training careers but also created unforgettable memories for all involved – from our dedicated track riders, stable hands, vets, farriers, to those at the spelling farms.
“He has left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to be a part of his journey.
“We extend our heartfelt thanks to his owner, Sheikh Mohammed Obaid Al Maktoum, for entrusting us with the privilege of training such a remarkable horse in Australia. We are truly indebted to him for the opportunity.
“As Without A Fight begins the next chapter of his life, we wish him the very best in his retirement.
“He has given us all so much – and for that, we are forever grateful.”
Without A Fight bows out with 11 victories from 24 career starts and earnings exceeding $9.7 million.
Fans of the Melbourne Cup, Doomben Cup, and other major races can find odds and features at Australia’s leading betting sites.