Legendary horse Bristol De Mai retires aged 12 as tributes pour in for fan favourite grey who made £900,000

LEGENDARY racehorse Bristol De Mai has been retired aged 12.

The fan favourite grey made more than £900,000 for connections during a brilliant career that saw him plunder five Grade 1s.

PA:Press Association

The legendary grey Bristol De Mai has been retired[/caption]

Bristol De Mai was famed for winning six times in all at his beloved Haydock for trainer Nigel Twiston-Davies.

Part-owner Simon Munir tweeted: “Team Double Green are announcing the retirement of Bristol De Mai.

“It has been a privilege to own him. Bristol has been a legend and retires 100 per cent sound and happy.

“Our thanks to Nigel, Sparky, Daryl and all at Grange Farm. It has been a wonderful journey that he has taken us all on!”

Bristol won 12 times in 42 races under rules, finishing second 11 times and third on a further six occasions.

Munir and fellow owner Isaac Souede have decided to call time on the chaser’s career after he finished 11th, beaten 47 lengths at Haydock last weekend.

Jockey Daryl Jacob, who won nine times on the horse, told Sporting Life: “What a legend of a horse Bristol has been and he’s been a pleasure to ride.

“I’ve enjoyed so many good days on him and some special days with my family too.

“The kids have grown to love him over the years so he’ll always be remembered fondly.

“His best performance was probably his second Betfair Chase, when he got the better of Native River, Thistlecrack, Clan Des Obeaux and Might Bite.

“The third Betfair gave me a huge amount of pleasure, but in terms of actual performance it was that second win, beating Gold Cup winners.

“He absolutely loved Haydock, especially when the mud was flying there.

“He was a real warrior, so consistent throughout his career and definitely one of the best I’ve ever ridden.”

Punters were quick to pay tribute to a National Hunt star.

One said: “Sadder than I should be given he goes out still full of life.

“Here’s to a long and happy retirement.”

Another said: “What a fantastic horse he has been for you all. Happy retirement.”

One comment read: “Wonderful horse that won the hearts of many racing fans.

“So glad he retires in one piece and wish him a long and happy retirement. He’s earned it.”

While a fellow Twitter user posted: “It’s been a privilege to watch him. Hope he has a long and happy retirement.”

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