The name of the horse Rock of Gibraltar is often associated with one of the most iconic landmarks in the world, however, the horse itself has an equally fascinating history and ownership. The horse has achieved a great level of success in sport, and its current owners have made sure that it is well looked after and has a comfortable life. In this article, we will look at the history of the horse, the current owners, and why it is such a sought-after horse.
History of Rock of Gibraltar
Rock of Gibraltar is a Thoroughbred racehorse foaled on the 19th of April 1999. He is by the sire Danehill, out of a mare named Offshore Boom. Rock of Gibraltar was bred at the Coolmore Stud in Ireland and sold to John Magnier, who is the founder of Coolmore. Magnier bred Rock of Gibraltar in an attempt to create a champion racehorse and it proved to be a successful venture.
Rock of Gibraltar’s Career
Rock of Gibraltar began his racing career in 2001 and over the next two years, he won an impressive seven races in a row. In 2002, he was voted European Horse of the Year and was named Champion Three-Year-Old in both Europe and the USA. In 2003, he was the runner-up in the prestigious Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe and was also the first horse to retain the Cox Plate in Australia. Rock of Gibraltar’s career came to an abrupt end in 2004 due to a tendon injury, however, he had already cemented his name in the history of horse racing.
Rock of Gibraltar’s Ownership
John Magnier was the original owner of Rock of Gibraltar and he had owned the horse since he was bred in 1999. In 2004, Magnier sold the horse to a group of investors, which included the Coolmore Stud and the Moyglare Stud. The investors collectively own the horse and care for it in its retirement.
The Current Owners of Rock of Gibraltar
The current owners of Rock of Gibraltar are the Coolmore Stud, the Moyglare Stud, and the Magnier family. The Moyglare Stud is a family-owned business based in Ireland, and the Magnier family is a well-known racing dynasty. The Coolmore Stud is owned by John Magnier and his partners and is one of the largest and most successful Thoroughbred stud farms in the world.
Why Is Rock of Gibraltar Such a Sought-After Horse?
Rock of Gibraltar is one of the most successful racehorses in history and is one of the most sought-after horses in the world. He was the first horse to win seven races in a row, and he was also the first horse to retain the Cox Plate in Australia. He has also achieved a great deal of success in the breeding world, as he has sired numerous successful racehorses, such as the former European Horse of the Year, Sea the Stars.
Rock of Gibraltar’s Retirement
Rock of Gibraltar has been retired from racing since his tendon injury in 2004. He is currently living a comfortable life with his owners at the Coolmore Stud in Ireland. The current owners have made sure that the horse is well looked after and is given the best care possible. They have also made sure that the horse is allowed to live out its retirement in comfort and peace.
Rock of Gibraltar’s Legacy
Rock of Gibraltar has left a lasting legacy in the world of horse racing. His impressive record of seven consecutive wins and his success in the breeding world have made him an iconic figure in racing. He has also made a lasting impression on the Magnier family, who have continued to be involved in the sport of horse racing.
Conclusion
Rock of Gibraltar is an iconic figure in the world of horse racing and is one of the most sought-after horses in the world. He has achieved a great deal of success in his racing career and has left a lasting legacy in the sport. The current owners of Rock of Gibraltar, the Coolmore Stud, the Moyglare Stud, and the Magnier family, have made sure that the horse is well looked after and is living a comfortable life in retirement.