Outstanding sprinter Blue Point to retire to stud

Blue Point, who became the first European-trained horse in almost 100 years, and among only a handful of horses ever to win both the G1 King’s Stand and G1 Diamond Jubilee in the same week at Royal Ascot, has been retired and will join the Darley stallion roster.

A superb flagbearer for Team Godolphin for four consecutive seasons, Blue Point won 11 of his 20 starts, making the frame in a further six. His other notable victories include last year’s King’s Stand, the G1 Al Quoz Sprint on Dubai World Cup night earlier this year, plus a further five wins at Group level including a three-length victory the Gimcrack at two.

Charlie Appleby, who trained Blue Point throughout his superb career said, “Blue Point has had a fantastic week and has managed to succeed where many horses have failed in completing this extraordinary double.

“His Highness Sheikh Mohammed was very much the instigator behind going for the challenge and was delighted when he won as he had been planning this for some time.

“Blue Point is sound and well, but owes us nothing so we will retire him on a high. He will now enjoy a break over the summer and will then begin his new career at stud.

“He will be missed by everyone in the yard, and I would like to thank the entire team at Moulton Paddocks, without whom none of this would have been possible.

“Blue Point has a fantastic mind, is a natural athlete and was a pleasure to train. I have every confidence he will, like his sire Shamardal, be a huge success as a stallion.”