Meet Our Legends
Jumping Legend
THE COSSACK
Breeding: Mastercraftsman x Stellardelmar
Nickname: Crafty
Trainer: Paul Nelson & Corrina McDougal
Owner: J A Frizzell, D P W & P H Grieve & P S Nelson
Breeder: I D Grieve
Regular Jockey: Aaron Kuru & Shaun Phelan
Major Wins: 2020 Great Northern Hurdle, 2021 Waikato Hurdle, 2021 Wellington Hurdle, 2021 Grand National Hurdle, 2021 Great Northern Hurdle, 2022 KS Browne Hurdle, 2022 Hawke's Bay Hurdle, 2023 Waikato Steeplechase, 2023 Pakuranga Hunt Cup Steeplechase, 2024 Wellington Steeplechase
Life beyond racing: When the curtain came down on his glittering career, The Cossack remained in the care of co-trainer Corrina McDougal. Their partnership took on a new chapter when Corrina returned to the showjumping ring after a 25-year hiatus with former jumping champion The Cossack proving the perfect partner
Jumping Legend
SULIMAN
Breeding: Redwood x Red Mariete
Trainer: Paul Nelson & Corrina McDougal
Owners: I See Red Syndicate
Breeders: G Harvey
Regular Jockey: Hamish McNeill
Major Wins: 2023 Wellington Hurdle & 2025 Grand National Hurdles
Life beyond racing: Following his retirement from racing, Suliman found a fitting home with Lucy de Lautour who is not only a trainer in her own right, but was also a member of the ownership syndicate throughout Suliman’s racing career, making his transition from racehorse to retiree all the more special. He joins fellow jumping legend Kipkeino out on the hunt field.
Jumping Legend
KIPKEINO
Breeding: Sunray x Awesome Annie
Nickname: Mac
Trainer: Lucy de Lautour
Owners: Mrs L C & W B de Lautour
Breeder: Profile Bloodstock Ltd
Regular Jockey: Shaun Phelan
Major Wins: 2017 Hawke's Bay Hurdle
Life beyond racing: Following his retirement, Kipkeino remained with co-owner and trainer Lucy de Lautour, where the pair have embraced life beyond the racetrack and continue to enjoy plenty of success out in the hunt field. It is a fitting home for the much-loved gelding, who has been part of the de Lautour family for almost his entire life.
Jumping Legend
ZED EM
Breeding: Zed x Don't Kick My Float
Nickname: Bobby
Trainers: Kevin Myers / Patrick Payne
Owners: D W & L Shannon, M J & R D Southey
Breeders: C & Mrs J J Booth, D W Shannon, M J & R Southey
Regular Jockey: Steven Pateman
Major Wins: 2019 Grand Annual Steeplechase, 2019, 2018 Great Eastern Steeplechase, 2019, 2018, 2017 Von Doussa Steeplechase
Life beyond racing: Following a hugely successful racing career in Australia, Zed Em returned to where it all began – the farm on which he was bred. Now living the life of Riley, the much-loved jumper spends his days babysitting youngsters and enjoying first pick of the paddocks. While an injury means he can no longer be ridden, Zed Em is a very lucky boy, cherished by all who know him and enjoying a well-earned retirement.
Jumping Legend
VOLKSWAGIN
Breeding: Volksraad x Thelma's Decision
Nickname: Dub
Trainer: John Wheeler
Owners: B P & Mrs D J Hopkins, Mrs D G Neville-White MNZM, J R Wheeler MNZM, Est late A C Montgomery & Est late B G Neville-White
Breeders: A S & J A Bongiorno
Regular Jockey: Richard Eynon
Major Wins: 2012 Hawke's Bay Steeplechase, 2011 Ken & Roger Browne Memorial Steeplechase
Life beyond racing: Very much apart of the family, Volkswagin remained in the care of the Wheelers and thrived out on the hunt field for many years. Beyond hunting, he also excelled in the show ring with John's daughter Kristal where his lovely paces and natural presence brought plenty of success in the saddle hunter classes. Renowned for his outstanding temperament and willing nature, he also served as a Clerk Horse keeping him very much involved in the racing game.