El Vencedor, a son of Rich Hill Stud’s sire Shocking, was named New Zealand’s Horse of the Year for the 2024/25 season, highlighting Rich Hill’s ongoing prominence in thoroughbred racing. Trained by Stephen Marsh and owned by breeders Mark Freeman and David Price, El Vencedor was the only New Zealand-trained horse to win three Group One races last term, including the Herbie Dyke Stakes, Otaki-Maori WFA Classic, and New Zealand Stakes. His dominance earned him 45 of 55 votes for the top honor, as well as the title of Champion Middle Distance Horse, and he is poised for another strong season following a competitive run in the Proisir Plate.
El Vencedor’s success continues Rich Hill’s legacy of producing Horse of the Year winners, following dual winners Xcellent and Mufhasa, and Jimmy Choux, who also began his stud career at Rich Hill. John Thompson of Rich Hill emphasized Shocking’s strong performance as a Group One sire, with multiple top-level winners and a competitive stud fee, making him a valuable option for breeders in Australasia. The stud’s recent achievements underscore its status as a leading center for thoroughbred excellence.
