Fiftyshadesofgold Retired

Douglas Scharbauer’s Fiftyshadesofgold (My Golden Song–Hadif Cat, by Hadif) has been retired after suffering a tear in her left front suspensory. The sophomore won this year’s GIII Eight Belles S. and was runner-up behind Untapable (Tapit) in the GII Fair Grounds Oaks. She was also third via disqualification in last year’s GII Adirondack S. The gray filly was a game fourth after setting a pressured pace in the GI Test S. before ending her career with a fifth-place finish in the Sept. 20 GIII Dogwood S.

 “She was certainly one of the best I’ve ever trained,” said conditioner Bret Calhoun. “She was the total package–a grand individual, was very fast and could carry it, a great mind and a big heart to go with it. I regret that she didn’t get the Grade II stakes win when she had the rough trip last summer in the Adirondack at Saratoga; and didn’t get the Grade I win in the Test when she drew the tough inside post and was beaten a length and two noses.” 

Scharbauer, whose late father Clarence Scharbauer, Jr. bred the filly, added, “Of course I’m disappointed that her racing career is over, but more than that, I’m so glad that she is sound and can go on to the breeding shed. Given her talent and looks, I think she will make a great broodmare.” 

On the board in six of nine starts, Fiftyshadesofgold retires with four wins and earnings of $420,521.