Injury ends dual Inter Dominion winner's career

DUAL Inter Dominion winner Just Believe has been retired.

Trainer Jess Tubbs made the announcement this morning after coming to the conclusion the gelding will not recover from the injury which has had him sidelined since finishing second in the Group One Trotting Free-For-All in Addington last November.

"With a tinge of sadness, but an overwhelming sense of pride, we announce the retirement of our champion, Just Believe," Tubbs said. "In the end it was Harry’s refusal to give up that has brought about his retirement, with us no longer able to trust him to tell us when things were getting sore.

"He has nothing left to prove and his welfare remains paramount."

Beginning his career under the care of astute horseman Michael Hughes, Just Believe was runner-up upon debut before scoring at his second start.

Making his way through the grades during the next three seasons, Just Believe was then transferred to Tubbs, where he became Australia's premier squaregaiter.

The son of Orlandi Vici had 42 starts for Tubbs, which netted 30 wins, eight second and two thirds.

A pair of those placings were during his inspiring European campaign.

Along with his Inter Dominion triumphs, Just Believe won an additional eight Group Ones, including three in New Zealand last season.

The eight-year-old is tipped to be the first Australian to win New Zealand Horse of the Year since Steel Jaw tied with Sir Castleton in 1984!

"We could list the races he won, or the money he earned, but it was the hearts he captured around the world that really set Harry apart," Tubbs said. "His incredible strength and determination to win were second to none and we couldn't be more grateful for the journey he has taken us on.

"A huge thank you to all of Harry’s owners for the opportunity they gave us with this incredible horse."