A Plus Tard: A Legacy of Speed and Stamina in the World of Horse Racing Retired
At the age of ten, A Plus Tard, the distinguished racehorse known for his exceptional prowess on the track and a symbol of triumph at the Cheltenham Gold Cup, has retired. This decision follows a period of diminishing performance. He failed to recapture the brilliance he once displayed. A horse is retiring. He's known for his racing achievements and his significant contribution to horse racing history. This marks the end of his illustrious career.
Cheveley Park Stud owned A Plus Tard. The horse stood out as a top-class chaser and reached a peak rating of 178. It also earned over €1 million in prize money. His record includes eight wins from 23 starts. According to Racing Post Ratings, he is the sixth-best chaser since 2000. He is also the fourth-best staying chaser at three miles or further. A Plus Tard's notable victories include the 2022 Cheltenham Gold Cup. It also won the 2021 Betfair Chase and the 2020 Savills Chase.
His 2022 Cheltenham Gold Cup win was particularly memorable. Rachael Blackmore rode him to a stunning 15-length victory. This achievement was remarkable for its margin. Blackmore was the first female jockey to win this pinnacle Grade 1 race. A Plus Tard's performance in this race exemplified his blend of speed and stamina. Trainer Henry de Bromhead highlighted these qualities as rare and exceptional.
In 2022, Richard Thompson, Director of Cheveley Park Stud, realized his dream. He won the Cheltenham Gold Cup. He reflected on the journey to get A Plus Tard. This victory was poignant. It came after David Thompson, the co-owner of Cheveley Park Stud, passed away the day after A Plus Tard's win in the 2020 Savills Chase. It was the last race he watched.
Rachael Blackmore rode A Plus Tard to five of his six victories. She expressed her deep connection with the horse. She described the Gold Cup win as an unforgettable day. She praised A Plus Tard for having everything desirable in a racehorse. De Bromhead echoed these sentiments. He lauded A Plus Tard's jumping ability, pace, and temperament. Collectively, these traits make A Plus Tard an extraordinary racehorse and one of the best he has ever trained.
A Plus Tard's career also included notable wins. For example, beating Chacun Pour Soi in a 2019 Grade 1 at Leopardstown over 2m1f. In 2019, he won the Close Brothers Novices' Handicap Chase at Cheltenham. He also delivered a dominant performance.
As A Plus Tard retires, he leaves behind a legacy of exceptional performances, historical achievements, and a deep emotional connection with his team. He will spend his retirement at Cheveley Park Stud. He's joining the ranks of other notable retired racehorses.