Image Credits: Getty Images
Sir Alex Ferguson and his group has successfully acquired the unbeaten horse Regent’s Stroll with a winning bid of £660,000, setting a new world record for a National Hunt horse.
This bid surpasses the previous record of £633,000 set earlier this year when the retired Manchester United manager was part of a group that purchased Caldwell Potter.
𝐍𝐞𝐰 𝐍𝐇 𝐇𝐈𝐓 𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐥𝐝 𝐫𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐫𝐝
The unbeaten Regent’s Stroll sells for £660,000 to @TMBloodstock & his trainer @PFNicholls. The 5YO son of Walk In The Park was offered by @millhousestud as part of the Chris Giles Dispersal#GoffsSummer #WorldRecord pic.twitter.com/lmyv64COf7
— Goffs UK (@GoffsUK) July 22, 2024
Impressive Performance in Bumper Events
Regent’s Stroll has yet to compete in a race with jumps but has shown significant prowess in two ‘bumper’ events.
These flat races, conducted under jump race rules, are designed for horses that have not previously run on the flat, allowing them to gain valuable racing experience.
Despite this limited exposure, Regent’s Stroll’s dominance in these events has led to him being regarded as a rising star in the sport.
Historic Dispute Over Rock of Gibraltar
More than 20 years ago, Sir Alex Ferguson was involved in a high-profile dispute with former Manchester United shareholder John Magnier over the racehorse Rock of Gibraltar.
The disagreement centered on the ownership and stud earnings of the horse.
Ferguson believed he owned half of Rock of Gibraltar, while the opposing party contended he was only entitled to half of the prize money from racing.
The dispute was eventually resolved out of court, but it is believed that the conflict provided an opening for Malcolm Glazer’s eventual takeover of Manchester United in 2005.
A Passion for Horse Racing
Sir Alex Ferguson’s long-standing passion for horse racing is partly driven by the environment it offers, away from the constant discussions about football.
However, the Scot remains deeply invested in Manchester United’s fortunes.
The club is undergoing significant changes, with Sir Jim Ratcliffe leading a new era following recent upheavals in its hierarchy.
Ferguson is expected to maintain a close interest in the developments at Old Trafford.
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