Veteran steeplechaser St Steven still thriving

Former champion steeplechaser St Steven may not be as sprightly as he once was, but the now 23-year-old gelding is living out his days in luxury with long-time owner Sabina Smith.

Seventy starts and more than $2million in prizemoney are impressive credentials for any racehorse, let alone one that includes a win in the 2002 Grand Jump in Nakayama, Japan – the first Australasian horse to do so. St Steven’s illustrious CV also includes back-to-back wins in the Hiskens Steeplechase (2001-02), making him one of the jumps heroes of the modern era.

He was trained by New Zealander John Wheeler, who still regards St Steven’s win in the Nakayama Grand Jump as the best race he has ever witnessed.

St Steven (Saint) found a new life Off The Track with his owner of 12 years, Sabina Smith. The pair formed an instant connection when they met, according to Smith.

“I was lucky enough to meet St Steven two weeks after he retired from racing, and it was absolutely love at first sight,” she said.

“He has challenged me right from the word go, and I’ve loved every minute of our 12-year association.

“I started riding a bit later than many people and I never went to pony club, but this little horse has taught me so much.”

Saint never skipped a beat following his retirement, and within a month Smith had him out hacking on his own.

“We trotted and cantered down the road two weeks after he finished racing, and he didn’t miss a beat,” she added.

The pair have been on many adventures together, including trails, competitions, cattle herding, kids’ pony rides and beach outings. One of the memories that stands out most for Smith was their encounter with a pod of dolphins.

“We ended up swimming alongside a pod of dolphins,” she recalled. “Saint showed no fear, and was so amazing. That memory will stay with me for ever.”

Even at the ripe age of 23, Saint is still very protective of his owner.

“He gets incredibly jealous of me patting or tending to other horses, and he even made my husband prove himself before accepting him,” Smith said.

These days, Saint is in semi-retirement but still retains his role as the boss of the paddock, making sure the other horses mind their manners.

Smith regards Saint as a once-in-a-lifetime horse, saying: “I absolutely count my blessings that St Steven has come into my life, and I’m looking forward to many more years of spoiling him.”

Along with a host of retired jumps champions, including Marlborough and Stand to Gain, St Steven will make a special guest appearance on the hallowed turf of the Warrnambool Racing Club on Grand Annual Day. The parade, proudly presented by Off The Track, will allow the public to see these former champions in all their glory.

Article courtesy of Racing Victoria