FridayOL

Grahame Begg, a renowned name in Australian racing, is shifting his attention to Nonconformist following a heartbreaking setback for his stable star, Zloties. The Group 2 winner was slated for a fitting retirement ceremony after contesting the Group 1 Tattersall's Tiara at Eagle Farm on June 28. However, an untimely injury has forced Begg to prematurely end Zloties' racing career, bringing forward the planned transition to life after racing.

The news is a significant blow for Begg and his connections, as Zloties had become a fan favourite with his consistent performances and spirited racing style. While the Tattersall's Tiara represented a final opportunity to showcase his talents on the biggest stage, the injury prevents him from even attempting to compete. Veterinary assessments confirmed the severity of the issue, leaving Begg with no choice but to prioritise the horse's well-being and ensure a comfortable and happy retirement.

“It’s incredibly disappointing, of course,” Begg stated. “Zloties has been a wonderful horse for us, and he deserved a proper farewell. We had planned a lovely ceremony at Eagle Farm, but unfortunately, it wasn’t to be. His health is the most important thing, and we want to ensure he enjoys a long and peaceful retirement.”

Shifting Focus to Nonconformist

With Zloties' racing career now over, Begg is turning his attention to Nonconformist, a talented gelding who has shown considerable promise. Nonconformist is currently being prepared for upcoming races at Flemington and is considered a strong contender in his grade. Begg believes Nonconformist has the potential to reach new heights and is eager to see him perform at his best.

“Nonconformist is a horse with a lot of ability, and we’re excited about his prospects,” Begg added. “We’ll be aiming him at some good races at Flemington, and hopefully, he can give us some exciting moments in the coming months. We want to see him build on his previous performances and establish himself as a force to be reckoned with.”

Looking Ahead

The stable’s focus now firmly on Nonconformist, Begg is optimistic about the future. While the loss of Zloties is undoubtedly a setback, he remains confident that his team can continue to achieve success on the racetrack. He’s committed to providing all his horses with the best possible care and ensuring they reach their full potential.

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The racing community wishes Zloties a speedy and comfortable transition to retirement and eagerly anticipates seeing Nonconformist make his mark on the Australian racing landscape.