I can say I have been fortunate to see the send off of two greats of the modern NH sphere, first we had Kauto Star bowing out in a fashion after the Gold Cup and then we had the much better retirement of Big Bucks today. Unlike the day Kauto Star saw the racecourse for the last time, today we were able to give him a proper send off.
He was applauded into the parade ring before the race, and then after the ceremony for winning owner, trainer and jockey, we saw Big Bucks being paraded around the paddock to rapturous applause. It was the best applause of the week for me, really nice send off for a superstar horse. I hope he has a happy retirement and look forward to seeing him alongside the likes of Kauto Star and Denman in a parade of Champions back at Cheltenham festivals for years to come.