Awapuni trainer Lisa Latta has announced the retirement of Group One winner and perennial stable favourite Authentic Paddy.

The 10-year-old gelding by Howbaddouwantit went to the races 101 times for 11 wins and 35 placings for just over $780,000 in stakes earnings.

A consistent black-type performer his biggest victory came in the 2017 edition of the Gr.1 Zabeel Classic (2000m) at Ellerslie after five Group One placings, two of which were third in the previous editions of the race.

Prior to his Group One victory he was a Group Three winner of the Canterbury Gold Cup (2000m) at Riccarton.

Always relied upon to give his best effort, trainer Lisa Latta and the owners made the decision to retire him while he was still in perfect health.

“He’s been battling in his last few races,” Latta said.

“He’s been such a good horse to us and we don’t want to see anything go wrong with him.  He’s been retired to a nice home and will be well looked after.”

Bred by the late Don Robinson, he was raced by his breeder before his passing, and then later raced by members of Robinson’s family.

He will see out his days on a neighbouring farm to one of his owners in Hawke’s Bay.