  Secretariat's final race, the October 28, 1973 Canadian International represents the final race in Secretariat's career. The $125,000 added 1 5/8 mile grass race from Woodbine racecourse was the last opportunity to display Secretariat's talents before his retirement deadline as specified by his syndication agreement. The race served as a homecoming of sorts for the two Canadian-born members of the Meadow Stable team, trainer Lucien Laurin and jockey Ron Turcotte. In an ironic twist of fate, Turcotte would only experience the race as a spectator as he was serving a five day racing suspension for a prior riding infraction unrelated to Secretariat. The talented Eddie Maple, another Meadow Stable regular rider, was chosen to pilot the champion against a stellar field of older turf runners. On a cold and windy day that even saw a few snowflakes, over 35,000 fans turned out for this historic send-off and the chestnut colt did not disappoint. Starting from the outside post, Secretariat opened up a 12 length lead in the stretch before being throttled down to win by more than 6 lengths over the soggy course in the excellent time of 2:41 4/5. With the win Secretariat notched his 16th victory in 21 career starts, amassing a total of $1,316,808 in a glorious but all too brief period of just over 15 months. More important, in this poignant climactic moment of triumph Secretariat would leave a fitting and lasting memory to a generation of fans. The very scarce official winners circle composite features the garlanded Secretariat wearing the number 12 with jockey Maple aboard. Joining in the celebration with owner Penny Chenery and her sister Margaret Carmichael, are Laurin and Turcotte, Meadow Farm secretary Elizabeth Ham, friends Shelby and Mary Timberlake, Woodbine executive George Hendrie, and the legendary Canadian racing owner and breeder E. P. Taylor. For collectors we exclusively offer the photo with the rare option of being signed by Eddie Maple. Measures 8" x 10", larger sizes available by special order. |
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