Group One performer and Group Two winner Beauden has been retired from racing.

The seven-year-old son of Bullbars was a model of consistency throughout his career, winning 12 of his 42 starts and placing on a further 12 occasions.

His biggest win came in last season’s Gr.2 Awapuni Gold Cup (2000m) following which he headed south to Riccarton and won the Gr.3 Canterbury Gold Cup (2000m).

The handsome gelding also placed third in the 2019 Gr.1 Zabeel Classic (2000m) where he was close-up behind True Enough, while he also finished fourth on multiple occasions at the elite level.

The Team Rogerson-trained Beauden showed an affinity for Awapuni, winning eight times on the Palmerston North track, including twice in the Listed Marton Cup (2200m).

Originally destined for the sale ring, owner breeder Joan Egan decided to retain the smart chestnut after being advised he was unlikely to fetch a decent price at auction.

“I was going to put him in the Ready To Run sales,” Egan said. “But Brent Taylor (of Trelawney Stud) said I wouldn’t get much for him. I watched him trot and canter around in the paddock and I did like the way he moved so I thought damn it, I’ll keep him myself and look at the wonderful ride he has given us. As Brent once commented, who would have thought?

“He has been with Graeme and Debbie Rogerson all along and they spared no efforts keeping him happy. Winning 12 races is an achievement for any horse, if he keeps going he would have to carry too much weight and he will be well-looked after for the rest of his life.

“Beauden is a lovely natured horse who liked people and loved racing. He was a great traveller too.

“I loved the way he bounced out of the gate onto the track to get going with his ears pricked.

“Ryan Elliot rode Beauden for most of his career and had great relationship with him. You’re lucky if you’re an owner and have a jockey that the horse trusts and they work well together.”

Beauden retires having earned over $427,000 in stakes.