Eldaafer, the horse who triumphed in the 2010 Breeders' Cup Marathon, has passed away at age 21. The accomplished racer spent his retirement years at the Old Friends Thoroughbred facility in Georgetown, Kentucky, alongside his goat companions. His death marks the end of a storied career filled with grit and longevity.
Eldaafer's journey in racing began with a maiden victory at Belmont Park on September 13, 2008, as a 3-year-old bred by Shadwell Farm. Over his career, the gelding amassed 46 starts, securing 13 wins and 10 additional top-three finishes. Trained by Diane Morici for all his stakes successes, he captured notable races including the Brooklyn Handicap (G2), Greenwood Cup Stakes (G3), Turfway Park Fall Championship Stakes (G3), and Carl Hanford Memorial Stakes.
His crowning achievement came in the 2010 Breeders' Cup Marathon (G3), a victory that highlighted his endurance. Eldaafer holds a unique place in Breeders' Cup history, competing in every edition of the Marathon from 2009 to 2012 and ranking among the eight horses with the most starts in the event. He concluded his racing days almost five years after his debut win, taking the Greenwood Cup Stakes (G3) on September 2, 2013, for owners Jim Atwell and Kevin Jacobson.
Retired for nine months when he arrived at Old Friends in June 2014, Eldaafer brought along his goat companions, Google and Yahoo, who had traveled with him during his racing years. The trio quickly became favorites at the farm in Paddock 50, entertaining visitors with their playful antics and featuring in several videos. Google and Yahoo passed away before Eldaafer.
John Nicholson, president and CEO of Old Friends, remembered him fondly: "Eldaafer was an accomplished racehorse whose grit and consistency defined his career, highlighted by his extraordinary Breeders' Cup achievements. From the moment he arrived at Old Friends, he became a favorite among visitors and staff alike. We were honored to provide him a home in retirement, and he will be deeply missed."
Dora Delgado, Breeders' Cup executive vice president and chief racing officer, added: "Eldaafer distinguished himself as a Breeders' Cup Champion and a horse whose longevity and toughness earned the respect of fans around the world. His time at Old Friends allowed many more to meet him and enjoy his story, and we commend the team there for the tremendous care and attention he received as a resident. Our thoughts are with everyone who knew him and played a part in his journey over the years."
