By Alan Carasso
Anthony Delpech, who won every major Grade 1 event in South Africa at least once, including the Durban July on four occasions, has announced his retirement from competitive race riding effective immediately, turftalk.co.za reported.
Delpech, who will turn 50 on Feb. 10, recently returned to riding work after a 10-month recovery from injuries suffered in a fall at Turffontein last April. He had successfully worked a few horses at the Summerveld training centre, suggesting that a return to the saddle might not be too far in the offing. However, recent advice from doctors have forced a change of plans.
“As I noted last week, everything was fine, except for a burning sensation in my right leg, but my doctor on Tuesday recommended that I never get on horseback again,” Delpech told Turf Talk. “He said the burn in my leg is caused by pressure on the spine which will only get worse, it will be aggravated and potentially result in permanent damage if I push it and force myself to return to the jockeys' ranks.
“I tried everything I could, including a strict exercise regime and all the medical help I could find, I experimented with everything including oxygen and biokinetics. My physio thought last week that it would be a good idea to ride work, it would help the healing process but, as it turned out, it exposed the dangers that remain and my doctor believes it will be in my best interest not to pursue this any further.
“He said my neck had healed completely, but my spine was damaged. I'd be putting myself and others in danger if I were to ride in races again. I spent Wednesday contemplating this and I haven't spoken to many people, it is terrible for me.”
For all his success at home, it was Delpech's time in Hong Kong that put him on the map internationally, thanks in no small part to his association with Vengeance of Rain (NZ) (Zabeel {NZ}). Trained by South African David Ferraris, Vengeance of Rain validated 2-1 favouritism in the 2005 Hong Kong Derby before besting the Mike de Kock-trained Greys Inn to lead home a Zabeel exacta in the G1 Queen Elizabeth II Cup. Delpech shoved Vengeance of Rain across the line to win the 2005 G1 Hong Kong Cup (video) and in 2007, he became the first Hong Kong-based galloper to score in Dubai, defeating Oracle West (SAf) (Western Winter) in the G1 Sheema Classic (see below).
“I wish to thank the many owners and trainers who supported me throughout my career, especially Mike de Kock for whom I rode for the last 10 years and Mary Slack the last two years,” Delpech said. “Thanks also to all the racing fans for their support and encouragement.”
WATCH: Anthony Delpech wins the 2007 Sheema Classic aboard Vengeance of Rain
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