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Meghann Scully, 23 May
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.
[ilim_Istabraq_at_Martinstown_Stud_18-4-23_9-1681912670632.jpg--.jpg?16
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Limerick superstar! âAnything that Istabraq wants, Istabraq getsâ
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.
Not really into taking selfies but if itâs your 31st birthday and
youâre a superstar then ââïž Istabraq #legend
pic.twitter.com/DQs7RUBcKo
â AP McCoy (@AP_McCoy) May 23, 2023
Out of Sadlers Wells (sire) and Bettyâs 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 âKing of the Yardâ.