Gunsynd

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Gunsynd (Sunset Hue - Woodie Wonder) was an Australian champion thoroughbred racehorse who is remembered primarily for his exploits over the mile distance. He was bred in New South Wales and foaled in 1967 he was a A$1,300 purchase at the 1969 Brisbane sales. Originally trained by Bill Wehlow and later in his four-year old season by T J Smith, Sydney's premier horse trainer, he competed in Australian racing from 1969 to 1973. He was affectionately known as the Goondiwindi Grey, as his owners came from Goondiwindi (pronounced Gundawindi), and was pure grey in appearance.

As a miler, he won a five out of six races he took part in, being beaten narrowly by Triton in the 1972 Epsom Handicap carrying a top-weight. He also won the prestigious 1972 Cox Plate. He was sent out 4:1 second favorite and top weight of 60.5 kg for the 1972 Melbourne Cup in which he ran third to Piping Lane.

Gunsynd was always a favorite with the crowds due to his beautiful grey appearance, and because he won a lot of races. His great record is 54 starts for 29 wins, 7 seconds, 8 thirds and A$280,455 in prizemoney.

Retired to stud when his racing days were over he was fairly unsuccessful but did sire Ammo Girl, dam of champion racemare Emancipation.

Gunsynd was humanely put down at age 16. A statue of the great horse has been erected in the main street of his 'hometown' Goondiwindi in his memory.