Third-Richest Thoroughbred Best Pal Officially Retired

The retirement of Best Pal, which was reported in The Times on Tuesday, was made official Wednesday by his owners, John and Betty Mabee.

In a release issued from their Golden Eagle Farm in Ramona, the Mabees said the 8-year-old gelding will make a farewell public appearance on Santa Anita Handicap Day, March 2.

The third-richest thoroughbred in history behind Alysheba and John Henry, Best Pal won the Big ‘Cap in 1992 and was second to Urgent Request last year.

After his March 2 appearance, Best Pal, who finished with 18 wins from 47 starts and earnings of $5,668,245, will be sent to Golden Eagle Farm, where he was born and raised.