Moscow Flyer retires but the legend lives on
While all those associated with the horse from owner Brian Kearney, through trainer Jessica Harrington and groom Eamonn Leigh felt beforehand that Moscow could have gone out with a bang instead of a whimper, they were all relieved to be bringing him home to a deserved retirement.
The two-time winner of the Queen Mother Champion Chase had certainly looked a picture in the pre-parade ring, where Leigh had fussed over him with typical affection, but his defeat by Newmill was tempered as much by relief as disappointment.
"He's come back on all four legs and not in one of those terrible blue and white trailers," a visibly thankful Harrington sighed afterwards, referring to the vehicle which removes deceased horses from the race track.
After the race when she was pressed by reporters as to Moscow's future, Harrington had pleaded for a few minutes to discuss the situation with Brian Kearney, but the expected decision was not long in coming.
"The horse will be retired," said Kearney, adding that he had, had a "very frightening moment" during the race when it appeared Moscow would be brought down.
Once he knew the horse was not going to achieve his third win, the decision to retire him came easy.
"He ran his heart out and is back in one piece," said Harrington. "I'm absolutely delighted it's far better that he retires in one piece than we go on. He retires here at Cheltenham where he had his finest hours."
Jockey Barry Geraghty, who partnered him to all his big successes, reported he had had to niggle the horse rather than have him travel and he was always under pressure. In those circumstances, retirement was the only option. Let us hope that he enjoys that as much we have enjoyed him.
