An Ambassador of Equine Friendship is now at Rest.

Picture - Heraldsun.com.au

With heavy heart I have to report the passing of a Racing Icon and genuine Friendship Ambassador Subzero, at the age of 32.

Possibly the most famous retired racehorse in Australia, Subzero, or 'Subbie' as he was commonly known by friends and industry members was eased from this mortal coil as his body began to succumb to age and organ failure on Aug. 29, 2020.

Foaled in Australia in 1988, Subzero was a great-great-grandson of Northern Dancer. The Australian bred Grey gelding is one of the few greys to have ever won the prestigious Melbourne Cup in 1992. He also claimed victories in the 1992 South Australian Derby, and 1992 Adelaide Cup. On his retirement his race record stood at 48 starts, with six wins, six placings, and five shows, amassing a bank role of just over two million dollars.

Though well regarded for his racing days, 'Subbie' would become even more famous upon his retirement. Selected by Clerk of the Course (racetrack official, charged with overseeing the race preparations and course management) Graham Salisbury as his personal mount, the now nearly white horse would become the face of racing in Victoria State and eventually all of Australia.

He would appear at various race festivals for fan meet and greets, be shown in television interviews, school visits, and do patient moral tours of Hospitals. He was also the face of Living Legends Equine Retirement Ranch in Greenvale, Victoria.

Early in 2020 Subbie had to say Farewell to his long time owner, and best mate, Graham Salisbury, who passed in June after a battle with cancer, and members of Graham's family were by Subbie's side today as he departed to join his friend in the Elysian Fields.

Thank you Subzero, for your poise, empathy, and grace for so many years and for the joy you brought to so many.

The eyes of the Venerated Elder of the Herd grow dim.
In the light beyond the darkness, a field of green and more ...

Lo there do I see my Father
Lo there do I see my Mother and my Sisters and my Brothers
Lo there do I see the Line of my Kindred, back to the beginning
Lo they do call to me
They bid me take my place among them
In the Fields of Elysium
Where the Children of Pegasus
May Live
Forever
R.I.P.

Subzero
1988-2020

May your heart be found light, that you may fly from here and take your place among the Eternal Herd, for your wings are those of a Pegasus.

Sir Barton (One Old Racehorse)