Legendary Hurdler Istabraq Dies at 32

Istabraq, the legendary racehorse known for his exceptional career in hurdling, has died at 32 at the home of his owner JP McManus. Trained by Aidan O'Brien, Istabraq won 23 of his 29 hurdle races, including three consecutive Champion Hurdles at Cheltenham from 1998 to 2000. He also secured victories in the 1997 Royal & Sun Alliance Hurdle, four Irish Champion Hurdles, two Hatton's Grace Hurdles, and an Aintree Hurdle. His bid for a fourth Champion Hurdle in 2001 was thwarted by the outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease, leading to the cancellation of that year's Cheltenham Festival. Istabraq enjoyed a long retirement at McManus' Martinstown Stud in County Limerick, where he celebrated his 32nd birthday in May. McManus and horse racing enthusiasts remember him fondly for the joy and pride he brought throughout his illustrious career.