In a year of thrilling races and exceptional equine talent, Calandagan has galloped away with the prestigious title of Horse of the Year at the Cartier Racing Awards! This recognition, celebrated in London, marks a significant achievement for the four-year-old, trained by Francis-Henri Graffard in France. But what makes Calandagan’s victory so remarkable? Let’s dive in.
Calandagan’s impressive resume includes victories in three top-level Group One races. He dominated the field in both the King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes and the Champion Stakes at Ascot. And this is the part most people miss: he’s only the second horse in history, after Brigadier Gerard in 1972, to achieve this double win in the same season! That’s a testament to his incredible skill and stamina.
Calandagan, racing under the Aga Khan’s colors, also showcased his prowess by winning the Grand Prix de Saint-Cloud in his home country. Earlier in the year, he demonstrated his consistency with a second-place finish in the Coronation Cup and the Dubai Sheema Classic.
The competition was fierce, with other top contenders also vying for the coveted title. Ombudsman, who secured wins in the Prince Of Wales’s Stakes and Juddmonte International, was a strong contender, as were leading three-year-olds Delacroix and Minnie Hauk.
The awards also recognized other outstanding horses. Trawlerman, trained by John and Thady Gosden, earned the title of leading stayer, thanks to his four victories this year, including the Gold Cup at Ascot. The Award of Merit was presented to the esteemed broadcaster and writer, Brough Scott.
Here’s a quick recap of the winners:
- Horse of the Year: Calandagan
- Sprinter: Asfoora
- Stayer: Trawlerman
- Three-Year-Old Colt: Delacroix
- Three-Year-Old Filly: Minnie Hauk
- Two-Year-Old Colt: Gstaad
- Two-Year-Old Filly: Precise
- Older Horse: Calandagan
- Award of Merit: Brough Scott
But here’s where it gets controversial… Did the judges make the right call? Were there other horses that deserved the title more? What do you think about Calandagan’s performance compared to the other nominees? Share your thoughts in the comments below!