Kelso reflects on saying goodbye to Legarto
The sale of champion mare Legarto (NZ) (Proisir), marked both a special and emotional moment for trainer Ken Kelso, as he reflected in a candid conversation with Mick Guerin on Sport Nation on Wednesday morning.
Purchased originally for just $90,000 as a modestly bred Book 2 yearling, Legarto’s journey came full circle when she sold for an extraordinary $2.8 million AUD (approx. $3.4 million NZD) at the Magic Millions fillies and mares auction on the Gold Coast last week.
Kelso admitted the occasion was bittersweet. While the financial result was outstanding for the ownership group, which includes Kelso and partner Bev, saying goodbye to a horse they had nurtured throughout her career wasn’t easy.
“It was a very emotional day,” Kelso told Michael Guerin and Tony Johnson on Sport Nation's The Midweek Mail Run, acknowledging the bond formed over years of training and racing.
Kelso also offered insight into the transition from racehorse to broodmare. Careful management was required to keep Legarto in peak condition without letting her gain excess weight before the sale. Light exercise and controlled feeding ensured she presented perfectly in the sale ring.
Beyond the financials, the conversation revealed the personality behind the champion. Kelso believes horses do recognize their handlers, recalling how Legarto — known as “Lulu” — would respond to her name, often with a knowing reluctance.
He also described her as having a touch of sass, a trait he believes is common among top mares and part of what makes them fiercely competitive.
