Bred in Australia, Elvstroem was a son of the legendary Danehill and Australian Oaks winner Circles Of Gold. He began his racing career in Australia under trainer Tony Vasil, achieving his first victory at Swan Hill in 2003. That race was later renamed the Elvstroem Classic in his honour.
Elvstroem quickly rose in the ranks, winning the 2003 Victoria Derby with Damien Oliver aboard. He continued his success in 2004, winning the Turnbull Stakes, the Underwood Stakes and the Caulfield Cup, where he defeated the great Makybe Diva. He also finished fourth to Makybe Diva in that year’s Melbourne Cup.
In 2005, Elvstroem made history by winning the Dubai Duty Free Stakes, becoming the first Australian horse to achieve this feat. He also raced in Hong Kong, England, and France, competing against the best in the world.
Throughout his career, Elvstroem amassed 10 wins from 32 starts, earning over $5.7 million in prizemoney. He formed a strong partnership with jockey Nash Rawiller, who rode him to victory in four Group 1 races.
Following his retirement from racing, Elvstroem enjoyed a successful stud career, first in Australia and later in France. He sired numerous winners, including Hucklebuck (winner of the Cantala Stakes, now the VRC Champions Mile, in 2014).
Elvstroem’s legacy as a champion racehorse and sire will endure, and he will be fondly remembered by racing fans around the world.
