From track triumphs to tranquil pastures for Zoutori

The connection forged between 2021 Newmarket Handicap winner, Zoutori, and his dedicated track rider, Jadey Pietrasiewicz, was so great that she couldn’t envision his retirement anywhere else but by her side.

Jadey Pietrasiewicz’s journey with Zoutori began the moment she first laid eyes on him as a yearling. Working for Mat Ellerton and Simon Zahra, she instantly fell in love with the young horse’s “beautiful head and expression.” 

Originally from the Netherlands, Pietrasiewicz previously had a successful career as a jockey, riding both overseas and worldwide. Upon her retirement, she remained deeply connected to the racing world, taking on roles as a track rider and strapper. 

Zoutori became a significant part of her daily routine, as she served as his track rider and only stopped for one reason – because she was pregnant. “I stopped riding him regularly just before his Newmarket win, actually,” she recalled. 

It was the autumn of 2021, and with odds of 20/1 and at topweight, Zoutori triumphed in the famed race, marking one of his five victories up the iconic Flemington straight.  

The eight-year-old gelding, known for his prowess in sprint distances throughout his career, was retired in 2023. With eight wins to his name, including four at Group level, his success included victories in the Group 2 Bobbie Lewis Quality for two consecutive years and the Group 2 Gilgai Stakes. He accumulated substantial career earnings of $2 million.

When retirement beckoned, Pietrasiewicz made a heartfelt offer – a place for Zoutori at her home. The owners accepted and plans for his post-racing life began to take shape. 

Zoutori and Pietrasiewicz have forged a strong connection. (Brett Holburt/Racing Photos)

“I am extremely lucky that they trusted me with him,” Pietrasiewicz said. 

Currently having a well-deserved rest, Zoutori spends his days in lush paddocks, basking in the care provided by Pietrasiewicz and enjoying the company of another retired thoroughbred, Rock ‘n’ Gold. A pre-training and spelling facility that Pietrasiewicz’s partner has put in place, complete with a small arena, is the perfect place for her to train Zoutori “once he’s ready”.  

While open to various options and opportunities, Pietrasiewicz is happy to take the time to watch and learn from others in the re-training field. “I want him to have a good rest to reset him. I am keen to do a bit of dressage with him, but I am open to all options at the moment. He’ll do anything I ask, but if he doesn’t like something, we don’t have to do it.” 

With a kind, sweet, and gentle temperament, Zoutori is not just a horse in the paddock; he’s a cherished member of their family.

Pietrasiewicz’s young son has especially formed a special bond with him, affectionately calling him Tori. 

Zoutori leaves behind a legacy of racetrack achievements, and we look forward to his next chapter in retirement, reassured that he’s in great, and adoring, hands.