Celebrations planned at Hanlon yard as popular stayer enjoys send-off
The one-time bargain purchase Hewick will be the guest of honour at a retirement party on Saturday at John “Shark” Hanlon’s Fenniscourt stables, the fitting finale to a varied and high‑profile career that included victory in the Galway Plate.
Acquired as a two‑year‑old for just €850, Hewick went on to win more than £790,000 in prize‑money and compiled a record that featured a string of notable successes, among them the bet365 Gold Cup, the Oaksey Chase, the American Grand National and the King George. The gelding raced 51 times and returned 12 wins during his career.
From modest beginnings to big‑race glory
Trainer John Hanlon has described Hewick’s rise as a classic example of patience and proper handling. After a testing start under rules—taking 12 races to record his first victory—Hewick did not fully mature into a top performer until he was a six‑year‑old. Hanlon says the yard were prepared to give the horse time to develop and that those decisions were central to the subsequent achievements.
Throughout his career Hewick produced consistent performances on several of the sport’s bigger stages. In addition to his Galway Plate triumph, the gelding’s form overseas and at major British fixtures helped turn him into a recognisable figure among travelling Irish connections. His run in the Punchestown Gold Cup, where he finished close to the leading pair of that race, was one of several strong efforts that underlined his class.
Family connections and memorable Galway moment
Hewick’s Galway Plate success is a particularly prized memory for Hanlon and his family. The victory carried personal significance for the trainer and marked an emotional high point, with family members present in the ring. Later in his career Hanlon’s son, Paddy, rode Hewick to success on two occasions in Thurles, and also partnered him in his final start, when the gelding finished third at Cork.
Owner T J McDonald retained close involvement throughout Hewick’s career and ensured the horse found a secure home in retirement. After his final race, Hewick was sent back into the care of his owner, where connections have described him as enjoying a comfortable, relaxed life away from the track.
Retirement celebration at Fenniscourt
- The open‑gate celebration at Hanlon’s Fenniscourt stables has attracted broad interest, with a large number of visitors expected, including attendees travelling from abroad.
- Organisers say several hundred people who registered interest will attend, with arrangements in place to welcome racegoers and well‑wishers to the yard for refreshments and music.
- Hewick will be present for the event before settling into retirement under his owner’s care.
The gathering is being staged as an opportunity for owners, stable staff, fellow trainers, and members of the public to mark the career of a horse whose achievements afforded many memorable moments on both sides of the Irish Sea and further afield.
Legacy of a travelling campaigner
Hewick’s record includes campaigns in Britain and the United States, and his wins in high‑profile staying contests stand as the highlights of a career that began in modest fashion. For a yard based in County Carlow, the gelding’s victories on the big stage delivered rare and widely celebrated success that resonated beyond the immediate racing community.
As Hewick settles into life away from racing, the farewell at Fenniscourt will provide an opportunity to celebrate those achievements and the team around him that helped turn a low‑cost purchase into a multiple big‑race winner.
