Grade 1 winner Brass Hat retired at 10

From Thoroughbred Times: Fred Bradley’s homebred Grade 1 winner Brass Hat was retired on Tuesday prior to making a start as a ten-year-old.

Trainer Buff Bradley said he and his father, Fred, made the decision after the horse “did not appear to be as free moving as he once was.”

“Both Fred and I knew this day would come and that probably Brass Hat's body would show signs of age before his mental attitude slowed down,” Buff Bradley said in an e-mail to family, friends, and racing fans. “We have no regrets and know how fortunate we have been to have foaled, raised and raced such a true racehorse.

“Brass Hat has been a very special animal, not only to our family and the employees of Bradley Racing Stable, but also to many thoroughbred race fans. For this reason, Fred and I will continue to welcome all family, friends and fans to visit Brass Hat at our farm in Frankfort , Kentucky.”

http://www.thoroughbredtimes.com/racing-news/2011/05/24/brass-hat-retired.aspx

From Bloodhorse.com: Fred Bradley’s popular 10-year-old gelding Brass Hat will be honored during a retirement ceremony at Churchill Downs May 28.

Brass Hat, a Kentucky homebred by Prized, was officially retired May 24 by trainer William “Buff” Bradley, the owner’s son. The Bradley family indicated age had caught up with Brass Hat, who began his career in early 2004 in a $15,000 claimer at Turfway Park but went on to win multiple graded stakes and earn more than $2 million.

Churchill’s farewell to Brass Hat is scheduled after the fifth race, which is set for a post time of 2:55 p.m. EDT. Brass Hat will make the trip to the Churchill paddock with the horses that will run in the fifth race, and the veteran star will remain in the paddock while the race is run.

A ceremony honoring Brass Hat and his connections will be conducted in the winner’s circle following the race.

Read more: http://www.bloodhorse.com/horse-racing/articles/63276/brass-hat-to-be-honored-at-churchill-may-28#ixzz1NbKBt8PO