Retirement announced for Arapaho after Sydney Cup triumph

Arapaho, known as the “Giant Labrador”, has raced for the final time.

The gelding, a two-time Group 1 conqueror, has been retired by trainer Bjorn Baker owing to "wear and tear" that prompted the close of his competitive days.

On Thursday, Baker made the public statement, calling Arapaho "an outstanding ambassador for our stable" as well as a "tough and genuine" performer.

"The decision to retire him has been made with his best interests firmly in mind," Baker posted on social media platform X.

"He is feeling a little wear and tear in his joints, and at nine years old, it's the right call to step him away from racing rather than take any risk."

Arapaho kicked off in France before relocating to Australia in 2021, becoming a consistent presence in Baker's team through various seasons.

Victory in the 2023 Tancred Stakes (2400m) was followed by a second top-level win at age eight, taking out the Sydney Cup (3200m) last year.

In his most recent start, Arapaho finished midfield in the 2025 Melbourne Cup, ending a career of 50 races with 10 successes, 10 placings, and earnings exceeding $4.3 million.

Arapaho's stable popularity matched his racing prowess, earning him the nickname of a "giant Labrador" among the team.

Regular jockey Rachel King, married to Baker's racing manager Luke Hilton, will join her husband in providing retirement care for the beloved horse.

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