Limestone Lad, a highly popular Irish hurdler of the modern era, has passed away at the age of 32.
Bred, owned, and trained by the late James Bowe, Limestone Lad had a successful six-year career, winning 35 out of 65 races. His achievements included four victories in prestigious Grade One races.
Among his notable triumphs were three wins in the Hatton's Grace Hurdle at Fairyhouse, where he notably defeated the remarkable three-time Champion Hurdle winner Istabraq in 1999, marking his first win in the race.
In addition, Limestone Lad secured a Grade One victory in the 2002 Champion Stayers' Hurdle at Punchestown. He also had a narrow defeat in the 2003 Irish Champion Hurdle at Leopardstown against Like-A-Butterfly and achieved two placings in the Stayers' Hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival.
Michael Bowe, James Bowe's son and longtime assistant, expressed his sadness, saying, "It is a sad day, Limestone Lad was a one-off and he actually died in the field he was reared in,” said Bowe’s son and long-time assistant, Michael.
“He was a great horse who for whatever reason captured the public’s imagination. He was a bit like Robin Hood as he took from the rich and gave to the poor!
“Beating Istabraq in the Hatton’s Grace was a big day, but there were lots of good days. I remember him winning the Morgiana in Punchestown one year when he looked well beaten and somehow fought back to get back up – it had to be seen to be believed.
“He wore his heart on his sleeve and whenever he ran there was nowhere to hide for the opposition. He was a one-off and I only wish I was able to clone him.”
Limestone Lad's spirit and determination were evident in every race, leaving no room for his competitors to hide. He was a truly exceptional horse, and Michael Bowe expressed his wish to be able to clone him.
Although his passing is saddening, Limestone Lad enjoyed a fulfilling retirement, cherishing every moment. The memories of his remarkable career and the trophies he earned will endure.