A Man of Peace in retirement
A multiple Saturday metropolitan winner, Man of Peace looked the winner in the 2020 $2m Kosciuszko before holding on for a gallant third. The Matthew Dale-trained war horse was a winner of $762,600 in stakes and gave all involved the ride of a lifetime.
“He is an amazing old horse, to win six Saturday races at Randwick is no mean feat.” Dale said.
“He was very well looked after before we got him and it’s great to see him back with original owners and so loved post his racing career.”
The son of Zariz retired in late 2021 and now resides on the picturesque Wagga Wagga property of Ray & Teresa Burt. A property at which he has spent much of his life.
“Man of Peace’s dam was out with us when she was in foal with him.” Ray Burt said. “Once she had him, he came here as a foal. We weaned him. He spent a lot of time as a young horse here with us.”
“His original Trainer Dave Heywood offered us a share once he got close to racing and we really loved him so we decided to take it.”
Man of Peace was a seven-time winner in the country before his high rating and the big weights meant his future belonged in the City. When Heywood advertised his much-loved galloper online, Matthew Dale snapped at the opportunity.
“When Matt purchased the horse, he asked if we’d like to keep our shares in him.” Burt said. “And I’m glad we did.”
While he was excellent for the Burts on the racetrack, the connection they have built with Man Of Peace over many years is truly special.
“He has been apart of the family for a long time. We love having him here with us.” Burt said.
“He really lives a life of luxury this horse. He gets that many carrots that he gets cranky now at feed time if he doesn’t get his share.”
Man Of Peace will have a happy home with the Burts for the rest of his days. Currently, the 14-time winner enjoys sharing a paddock with spelling galloper Unique Prince who also comes from the Matthew Dale yard.
Pictured: Man of Peace shares a pre-race kiss with competitor Handle The Truth ahead of the 2020 Kosciuszko