Sha Tin bids farewell to Silent Witness

25 February 2007

It resembled some of the 17 Sha Tin victories that made him the most iconic horse in the history of Hong Kong racing - Silent Witness cantering past the post in isolation with thousands of fans, many bedecked in his black and green silks, roaring their approval. This, though, was the last time.

In specially convened and emotional farewell, jockey Felix Coetzee rode the recently retired record-breaker for one final stretch on the turf that made him so famous. A crowd of 35,000 cheered and clicked cameras for a parting shot. Owners Archie and Betty da Silva fought back the tears. Trainer Tony Cruz looked on with pride. Coetzee dismounted and gave the gleaming seven-year-old a goodbye kiss.      

Silent Witness, the fastest horse in the world from 2003 to 2005, will enter quarantine in March before shipping to Melbourne where he will enter the Living Legends home for retired champion thoroughbreds.

"I just wanted to say goodbye to him," Mr da Silva said. "I just hope that he is happy and healthy and I'm looking forward to paying him a visit in Australia."     

Later Mr Da Silva presented one of the champion's racing shoes to Mr Winfried Engelbrecht-Bresges, Chief Executive Officer of the Hong Kong Jockey Club, on behalf of the Hong Kong Racing Museum.

In return, Mr Engelbrecht-Bresges presented a book chronicling Silent Witness' 18 victories to the Da Silvas.    

"He was the flag-bearer for Hong Kong racing and the level of attention Silent Witness received was unprecedented - it still is, judging by the send-off he is receiving today. We all wish him a happy retirement," Mr Engelbrecht-Bresges said.