To all my fans, I always knew this day would come. I would have liked to give you all one last chance to see me defend my Breeders’ Cup Classic triumph. I wanted so much to hear your cheers again as I thundered down the stretch, the cheers that have given me more joy than I could ever had wished for, than I could have ever dreamed of. The cheers that filled my heart with more strength and courage than I ever realized I had.

However, it is time for me to retire and start an exciting new career making babies, lots of Mucho Macho Man babies! I really will miss you all, but rest assured I have a luxurious new home at Adena Springs, Kentucky, and I think I saw a dish of peppermints in their lobby — hope some are for me.

With all my heart, thank you all for being there with me. I would never have become the Champion I am today without your unwavering support and steadfast love. And to all the photographers and artists who capture the sport and soul of racing, and create this great love affair between horse and human – a special horse-felt thanks. News to follow.

Yours forever, Mucho Macho Man