Istabraq bids farewell

Whip hand: Swan and Istabraq take the plaudits

Three time Champion Hurdle winner Istabraq has been retired.

Thursday's announcement follows a detailed veterinary examination of the injury the 10-year-old gelding sustained to his off-hind hock at the Cheltenham Festival last week.

The Cheltenham crowds were stunned when jockey Charlie Swan pulled up on favourite Istabraq with his mount tailed off just two flights into this year's Hurdle running.

The race was eventually won by Hors La Loi III.

Although Istabraq is expected to make a full recovery from the injury in the coming months, trainer Aidan O'Brien said the gelding will not run again.

"Istabraq has given us wonderful memories to cherish and all who were associated with him feel especially privileged.

"We would like to thank all who sent letters, cards and messages of goodwill. The outpouring of affection and appreciation for him has been overwhelming."

The gelding will be taken to County Limerick where he will begin his retirement at the Martinstown home of his owner, JP McManus.