Triple Group 1-winner retired

A triple Group I winner, who was arguably the best Randwick miler since the great Super Impose, has been retired.

The Hawkes Racing-trained Mentality showed a distinct liking for the Randwick mile. The son of Flying Spur won three Group I races over the same route.

Mentality won the Champagne Stakes (1600m) as a two-year-old before taking out the Randwick Guineas (1600m) as a three-year-old. He returned in his four-year-old season to claim the George Main Stakes.

The striking chestnut also finished second in a Group I Doncaster Mile and Group II Villiers Stakes.

"He loved the Randwick mile. He’s been such a grand old horse,” Michael Hawkes said.

Last start Mentality finished fourth to subsequent Villiers winner Monton in the Listed Festival Stakes (1500m). The trainer said it was the galloper’s "best effort” this preparation but it wasn't enough to keep him in training.

"He was there to win last start but didn’t let down. He owes us nothing and we want the best for him,” he said.

"You just don't get these types of horses anymore. I know he won’t be remembered as one of the greats but how many horses win a Group I race at two, three and four.

"Not to mention still running at eight.”

Hawkes said Mentality had already found a new home and would still play a part in the racing scene.

"He’ll be living at Coolmore. He’s such a lovely animal, they are going to use him to educate younger horses,” he said.

"I’m sure if he teaches them some of his tricks we might see a few more gallopers like him around.”

Mentality finished his career with 58 starts for eight wins, eight seconds and five thirds. Ironically, all eight of his wins were at Listed or Group level.

The gelding amassed more than $2.1million in prizemoney.

Story: Nic Ashman RaceNet

Photo: sportpix.com.au