Global breeding operation Darley heralded the end of an incredible era on Thursday when it announced that its veteran sire Lonhro has been retired from stud duties.

A champion racehorse for John Hawkes and the Ingham family, Lonhro won 26 races including 11 at Group 1 level prior to his retirement from the track in 2004.

He continued the legacy of his own sire Octagonal and was an instant hit at stud, siring many elite performers at all ends of the spectrum, including Triple Crown-winning juvenile Pierro, Guineas winner Kementari, Oaks heroine Aristia and star older galloper Impending.

Godolphin Australia chief Vin Cox thanked those who have worked closely with the 24-year-old stallion and said he took pride in the fact the horse retires from stud duties completely sound and healthy.

“It is with great appreciation I announce that the decision to retire Lonhro from covering duties has been confirmed,” Cox said in a statement.

“Most importantly, Lonhro retires from the Darley roster sound, happy, healthy and will remain in residence at Kelvinside.

“The stallion team, led by Barley Ward-Thomas and Yev Kovalov, plus Lonhro’s long-time mate Deen Griesheimer and all other handlers who have contributed within our stallion barn, have done a wonderful job caring for this Australian icon for over a decade, and who will continue to do so.

“It’s important to us that the horse retires on his terms and to all who have supported Lonhro throughout his career, we thank you enormously.”

Darley Australia’s Head of Stallions Alastair Pulford said Lonhro is the ‘ultimate thoroughbred’ that had done a brilliant job at stud.

Lindermann became Lonhro’s 13th G1 winner with his victory in last Saturday’s Rosehill Guineas.

To date, Lonhro has sired 80 individual Stakes winners of more than 160 Stakes races.