This story killed me, was hoping she would stay in training, but money talks!
THE brilliant Qatar Prix de L'Arc de Triomphe winner Zarkava has been retired by her owner the Aga Khan.
Following her sensational victory eight days ago it had been widely expected that she would be retired and theAga Khan said on Monday, “Whilst no-one will regret more than my management team and I not to see Zarkava race again, as she is such a supreme athlete and she will be an invaluable asset to the Aga Khan broodmare band.”
Zarkava, therefore, ends her racing career unbeaten in seven races including five at Group 1 level including the Prix Marcel Boussac, Poule d'Essai des Pouliches, Prix de Diane, Qatar Prix Vermeille and Qatar Prix de L'Arc de Triomphe.
She will be covered by the Aga Khan's 2003 Arc winner Dalakhani next year.
Her trainer Alain De Royer-Dupre was understandably downcast at the news of Zarkava's retirement but fully accepts the Aga Khan's decision.
"As a trainer, it is normal to feel some disappointment at her retirement," said the Chantilly handler. "But I understand that it is important for the valuable continuation of the Aga Khan's breeding operation.
"She is going to be a wonderful prospect at stud."
De Royer-Dupre highlighted the filly's raw pace as being the key attribute for which she will be best remembered.
He added: "That (the Arc) was the best race for her because when she crossed the finishing line, she had won so easily.
"That was unbelievable - especially as she hit traffic jams during the race.
"I always said her greatest quality was her acceleration.
"The ability to make up so much space in such a short space of time - like she showed in the Vermeille - was incredible. Zarkava has been a beautiful story."
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