A career in equestrian awaits champion jumper Bashboy, who has been retired from racing effective immediately.

Owner Ian MacDonald has decided to pull the plug on Bashboy’s racing career after revelations he would not receive an exemption to race on after he turned 13 on August 1.

Last year, Racing Australia introduced a rule to stop all horses from racing once they turned 13 and Racing Victoria this week declared it wouldn’t be seeking an exemption to allow Bashboy to defend his Grand National Steeplechase title.

It means Bashboy could race in the Mosstrooper Steeplechase in July, but couldn’t compete in the Crisp Steeplechase (which he won four times) or the Grand National just a few weeks later.

Without being able to shoot for a historic fourth Grand National Steeplechase title, MacDonald decided it wasn’t worth pushing on.

“He was an amazing horse - a natural athlete - and he gave us a lot of pleasure, as he did to the public,” MacDonald said.

“You couldn’t be upset seeing his last win in the Grand National Steeplechase.

WATCH: Bashboy’s third Grand National win

 

 

 

“I guess there’s a degree of regret, but I think on the other hand his exploits on the track will remain in our thought processes for years to come.”

Bashboy finishes his racing career as one of the best jumpers Australia has ever seen with 14 wins and three placings in 19 starts over the obstacles.

He bows out with an overall record of 18 wins and 13 placings from 56 starts, collecting $1,096,539 in prizemoney.

While Bashboy’s racing career is over, MacDonald hopes he’ll be just as successful in his next endeavour.

“We’re going to transition him into equestrian sport,” MacDonald said.

“If he can make that transition, we’re going to invest some time and effort into doing so.

“I think he will make a national eventer and showjumper, he’s got a lovely gait for a dressage horse as well, so let’s hope he makes the transition.”