Alpinista retired after picking minor injury in Japan Cup preparation

The wonderful grey mare and firm favourite at Triple G Tower, Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe winner Alpinista has been retired having picked up what is described as a minor injury in her build-up to an intended run in the Japan Cup. The Sir Mark Prescott trained, Kirsten Rausing owned, five-year-old won a total six Group One races, her most recent being her victory at ParisLongchamp last month - tipped on here as she was many times in her career.

Sir Mark Prescott told the PA news agency on Thursday “I’m not having a good morning, because we can’t run Alpinista in Japan. I’ve had a grumpy day. She had a bit of heat in her leg last night when I was at the Cartier Awards dinner. William (Butler, assistant trainer) looked round and didn’t like her, thought there was heat in the leg. When I got back and when I looked at her first thing this morning, I wasn’t happy, so that’s it – she retires. She has been marvellous and hasn’t been beaten for two years, she won six Group Ones in three different countries. She has been fantastic. She will join a wonderful broodmare brand at Miss Rausing’s.”