Hugely popular grey Bristol De Mai has been retired from racing after his latest run at the track where he enjoyed his greatest moments.
The 12-year-old finished last of the 11 horses to complete Saturday’s Grand National Trial at Haydock on Saturday.
Bristol De Mai, a habitual front runner, was ridden towards the rear of the field and trailed in 47 lengths behind the winner Quick Wave.
He had won the race in 2022, one of six successes at the Merseyside track which include three triumphs in the Betfair Chase in 2017, 2018 and 2020.
Simon Munir, co-owner of Bristol De Mai with Isaac Souede, broke the news on Twitter.
“Team Double Green are announcing the retirement of Bristol De Mai,” he said
“It has been a privilege to own him. Bristol has been a legend and retires 100% sound & happy. Our thanks to Nigel, Sparky (Richard Bevis), Daryl (Jacob) & all at Grange Farm.
“It has been a wonderful journey that he has taken us all on!”
Bristol De Mai was bought out of Guillaume Macaire’s yard in France and made an immediate impact for trainer Nigel Twiston-Davies by providing his owners with their first Grade One success in the 2014 Finale Juvenile Hurdle at Chepstow.
In all he won 12 times, with his big-race haul also including the 2016 Altcar Novices’ Chase and 2017 Peter Marsh Chase, also at Haydock, plus the 2016 Scilly Isles Novices’ Chase at Sandown and the 2017 Charlie Hall Chase at Wetherby. He amassed over £900,000 in prize-money.
