Racehorse retires at ripe old age of 13

A racehorse is to swap the course for college as he retires at the "great age" of 13 - more than double the usual age for steeds to stand down - to take on a new role.

Athollblair Boy, of Woodland Stables in Malton, took part in 135 races, winning 15 of them - most recently on 10 January at Newcastle.

His new job will be at the National Horseracing College in Doncaster, helping to put new jockeys through their paces.

Jockey Faye McManoman said she had been "so privileged" to ride Athollblair Boy, and his last day at Woodland had been "emotional".

Celebrating their victory on 10 January, McManoman said she was "immensely proud, privileged and emotional" to share another victory with the horse.

Trainer Nigel Tinkler said the typical age for retirement in flat racing was about five years old.

He said: "Jumpers go on for a bit longer, but these fellas have been racing since they've been babies.

"He's been a fantastic ride and he's taught a lot of people how to ride."

McManoman said: "It sounds crazy, but he's like a safe space. When you're sat on him, you know he's going to look after you.

"When he's passing horses for you, he still feels like a baby at heart. The fire is still in his belly.

"What an achievement it's been for him to get this far in racing."

Athollblair Boy moved in to Woodland Stables when he was just one year old and staff there said he had since become "part of the furniture".

McManoman said the horse would have a lot to teach new jockeys at the National Horseracing College.

"I think when he's teaching the kids the ways of racing, he'll teach them a lot," she explained.

"He won't take any messing from them. He'll teach them, he'll love his routine and hopefully bring out some new jockeys into the circuit."

A few tears were shed as the newly retired racehorse boarded his horsebox for the journey to Doncaster.

Asked if she would visit Athollblair Boy at his new home, McManoman said: "You try and stop me."

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