The Parade Ring

Great words from our very own @DavidJenningsRP on Hewick: 🗣️ "There was always some sort of hysteria when Hewick ran – Shark always made sure of that – but so what? Bullishness is so much more entertaining than boringness. So what if he thought he would never be beaten, so what if he aimed for the stars and so what if he never knew his limitations. This was one story that never had a script. How fitting that Hewick’s career came to an end in the humble surroundings of a conditions hurdle at Cork in the middle of summer, just as humble as the way it started and had stayed for so long. From Galway Plates to King Georges, to trips to the States, to exploiting opportunities over hurdles, to being bang there turning for home in a Cheltenham Gold Cup, it has been one hell of a ride and, unfortunately, the sort of ride that won't be replicated any time soon. The big are getting bigger and the small are being wiped out so Hewick was one of those glorious anomalies that might never come along again. It was jump racing as we used to know it. When everyone had a chance, no matter who they were. Thanks for the memories, Hewick. It’s been a blast."

Those closest to Envoi Allen pay tribute to their superstar horse Darragh O'Keeffe, jockey: "Everything was grand and I was happy out there. He pulled up A1 and everything like that, but when we were trotting back [after the race] he collapsed. He was unbelievable and a special horse. He won numerous races and it just happened so fast." Richard Thompson, Cheveley Park Stud: "We didn't see it but the vets okayed them all after the race and Darragh said he was pricking his ears after the race. He then went over as he was coming back onto the chute. He'd just retired but then in a minute or two he was gone. "He was such a lovely little horse and it wasn't the ending we wanted. He's been an incredible servant and just wonderful over the years. It's such a sad way to go."