Legendary Three-Time Champion Hurdle Winner Istabraq Dies At The Age Of 32

[Wandering Eyes]

Istabraq, the legendary three-time Champion Hurdle winner, has died at the age of 32 at JP McManus's Martinstown Stud in County Limerick.

Trained by Aidan O'Brien, Istabraq won three Champion Hurdles between 1998 and 2000, and endeared himself to the racing public with 25 victories under his belt. He also won the Royal Sun Alliance Novices' Hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival in 1997. 

In a brief statement released on Thursday, McManus said, “Sadly, Istabraq passed away at 1.15am this morning at the ripe old age of 32. He was a very special horse who gave us many great days of fun and enjoyment. Our thanks to Lara Hegarty, Johnny O'Brien and all the staff at Martinstown who took such fantastic care of him over many years.”

The owner added, “We are pleased that we gave him a good celebration for his most recent birthday in May. He leaves Noreen, myself and the family with wonderful memories.”

Initially a smart Flat horse for John Gosden, the son of Sadler's Wells went on to become one of the greatest and most popular National Hunt horses of the modern era after joining O'Brien.

As well as his Cheltenham Festival heroics, he also won four Irish Champion Hurdles, two Hatton's Grace Hurdles and an Aintree Hurdle over the course of his glittering career.

Istabraq's racing days came to an end after being pulled up in his bid for a fourth Champion Hurdle success at Cheltenham in 2002 and he has since enjoyed a long and happy retirement at McManus' Martinstown Stud, celebrating his 32nd birthday in May.

 

 

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