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Tripple Crown winner Justify forced into retirement

Justify has been retired
Justify has been retired

Justify has been retired because of injury, connections of the undefeated American Triple Crown winner said in a statement.

The three-year-old son of Scat Daddy has been struggling with an ankle problem which has now brought the end to a magnificent career.

Trainer Bob Baffert said: "Justify had some filling in his ankle, and he is just not responding quick enough for a fall campaign.

"We all wanted to see Justify run again, but ultimately it is my responsibility to make sure he is perfect.

"Without 60-90 days, I can't be definite."

Justify is partly owned by WinStar Farm, whose president Elliott Walden said:  "We all wanted him to finish his career in the Breeders' Cup Classic, but it was not meant to be.

"As has been reported, there is a possible sale to Coolmore in place, but that won't be finalised until a later date."

Justify retires with a perfect six-from-six record and has earned over €3.2m in prize-money.

Jockey Mike Smith, who partnered Baffert's star in five of his races, said: "There was never a time when I rode him that I felt like I was going to get beat.

"There was no horse who could run with him without sacrificing themselves, and there was no horse who could come get him.

"He truly is a gift from God." 

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