Istabraq, three-time Champion Hurdle winner, dies at age of 32 | Horse racing

Istabraq, hailed as one of the greatest hurdlers in the history of jump racing, has passed away at the age of 32, as announced by his owner, JP McManus.

In a statement released on Thursday, McManus expressed: “It is with great sadness that I share the news that Istabraq passed away at 1.15am today, having lived a remarkable 32 years. He was a truly remarkable horse, bringing us countless wonderful moments and joy.”

“Our sincere thanks go to Lara Hegarty, Johnny O’Brien, and all the staff at Martinstown stud, who devoted themselves to his care throughout the years. We are grateful that we celebrated his most recent birthday in May. He leaves behind cherished memories for Noreen, myself, and our family.”

Charlie Swan, who was a constant presence in the saddle during Istabraq’s racing career, shared his fond memories of the legendary hurdler. He remarked: “It’s a somber day, but he had a remarkable life; at 32, he was treated like royalty at Martinstown, just as he deserved.”

“I enjoyed many unforgettable days, with winning the third Champion Hurdle being particularly memorable. Achieving that feat was rare and made for a special occasion. His jumping ability was exceptional, displaying remarkable speed and precision.”

“He had incredible speed, stamina, and jumping dexterity—he truly possessed it all. You could ride him in any style you desired.”

Bred as a son of the legendary sire Sadler’s Wells and a dam sired by the iconic Secretariat, Istabraq was destined for greatness on the Flat. He began his career under Newmarket trainer John Gosden, securing victories in lesser races at Salisbury and Ayr in 1995.

However, after being purchased by McManus for 38,000 guineas, he moved to Ireland to train over hurdles under John Durkan. Following Durkan’s illness, which led to his passing from leukemia in 1998 at the age of 31, Istabraq was transferred to Aidan O’Brien’s care.

Istrabraq flourished racing over two miles with eight hurdles to navigate. Throughout his career, he achieved 23 wins from 29 races, famously becoming the fifth horse to win three Champion Hurdles at the Cheltenham Festival in 2000.

His accolades include winning the 1997 Royal Sunalliance Novice Hurdle at Cheltenham, four Irish Champion Hurdles, two Hatton’s Grace Hurdles, and an Aintree Hurdle during his illustrious career.

O’Brien reflected on Istabraq’s 32nd birthday celebrations, stating: “Being there for his birthday was incredible. He was treated royally throughout his life and seemed to be in great spirits that day. The sheer number of letters, visitors, all the racing fans who grew up admiring him, highlight his mystical legacy. He was truly a once-in-a-lifetime horse.”

The trainer also paid tribute to Durkan in his remembrance, noting: “Let’s not forget John Durkan; we were essentially caring for Istabraq on his behalf. JP and Noreen bought him for John to train.”

The esteemed horse racing organization Timeform placed Istabraq as the joint second-best hurdler in history, just 2lb behind their top-rated horse, Night Nurse, from a golden era of 1970s hurdlers.

Istabraq’s racing career concluded after he was pulled up in his attempt for a fourth Champion Hurdle title at Cheltenham in 2002, following which he enjoyed a lengthy and happy retirement at McManus’s stud in County Limerick.