Ralph Beckett’s superstar, Westover, could largely be considered the perfect racehorse to own. The two-time group 1 winner was hugely consistent, as well as be supremely talented and full of heart.
In the aftermath of his tremendous second in the Prix De L’arc De Triomphe, it was announced that he had come out of the race with a career ending injury. It was a devastating turn of events for a horse that had delivered so much, yet still had bundles of potential.
When looking back at Westover’s career, it fills you with pleasure, but a feeling in the back of your head of what could have been. My favourite performance of his came in the Irish Derby, his first success at the highest level. A seven-length victory and a showcase of his ability in the perfect manner. He devoured his rivals.
His victory in the Prix De Saint Cloud, came with more expectation, but showed me more about this horse’s characteristics than any previous run to date. He really had to knuckle down and he did so, proving that this horse had the mental capacity to win races, as well as the physical traits. He was the real deal.
The attribute that stands out to me more than any other, was his consistency at the highest level, despite being a relatively inexperienced horse. His second place to the superstar, Equinox, in the Dubai Sheema Classic, is a very underrated performance, as the winner stole all the headlines and rightly so, it was sensational. However, Westover had comfortably beat talented individuals, coming off the back of a 174-day break. A stark reminder of his talent.
When thinking of which race left me the most disappointed, the second place in the Coronation Cup at Ascot sticks out in my mind. I left the race thinking the best horse in that field lost. I try not to be critical of jockeys, but I had an overwhelming feeling that Rob Hornby had the race in the palm of his hands, and he let it slip.
His highest Racing Post Rating, came on his penultimate start, as he finished second in the King George and Queen Elizabeth Stakes, having a tremendous battle with winner, Hukum. In a race where many of the principles did not handle the conditions, Westover was there yet again at the forefront.
It is devastating that this son of Frankel will not be racing again. He was shaping to be a future stayer with masses of ability. Thankfully, the injury was not fatal, and he can continue his life as a top-class stallion.
Happy retirement, Westover!
