Fergal O’Brien has confirmed the decision to retire 14-year-old former Grand National contender Alvarado. A horse who twice shone in the Aintree showpiece, Alvarado won eight of his 36 starts but the decision to call it a day comes after he could only manage sixth at Cheltenham on New Year’s Day.
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Alvarado’s greatest performances came as he finished fourth at Aintree in both 2014 and 2015 and O’Brien admits it has been a pleasure to work with the horse. “He was the most wonderful horse,” O’Brien said.
“I was lucky enough that his owners Mr and Mrs Rucker sent him to me during my second season of training. “He trained himself and was a joy to have around. Paul Moloney got on so well with him, and together they finished fourth in two Nationals and runner-up in the Scottish National.
“He was a bit of an Aintree legend after finishing fourth to Pineau De Re in 2014 and then fourth behind Many Clouds the following year. He won £230,000 in prize-money during his career.”
