Limerick superstar Istabraq still having fun at 31
TODAY is a day of celebration as the legendary racehorse, Istabraq, turns 31.
The decorated bay gelding is enjoying a life of retirement on the grounds of Martinstown Stud where he gets showered with love and his favourite treat, carrots.
He famously won the Champion Hurdle at Cheltenham on three occasions in the JP McManus green and gold silks and keeping with tradition, got spoiled with a cake, cupcakes and his favourite snacks in his stable.
Throughout his glittering career, which includes 23 wins over hurdles, with Charlie Swan on board, Istabraq won the Punchestown Champion Novice Hurdle in 1997 and Punchestown Champion Hurdle in 1999.
Out of Sadlers Wells (sire) and Betty’s Secret (dam) he was bred for the flat but was unsuccessful and in 1996 made his hurdling debut which would see him go on to become one of the greatest horses over hurdles this country has ever seen.
He commands attention when you enter the Champions Barn where Minella Times, Buveur d'Air and the recently-crowned Irish Grand National winner, I Am Maximus, are all stabled in the JP McManus-owned yard but Istabraq remains the “King of the Yard”.