'One of the best I've trained' - Bin Suroor calls time on career of Thunder Snow

Saeed bin Suroor has announced the retirement of his globetrotting stable star Thunder Snow, who embarks on a new career as a stallion after propelling the stable to lofty heights on the international stage in recent years.

The Godolphin five-year-old achieved the notable feat of becoming the first horse to secure a second Dubai World Cup in March, digging deep to fend off Gronkowski by a nose a year on from posting an all-the-way success in the same contest.

A versatile performer on turf and dirt, the four-time top-level scorer was last seen finishing a gallant third in the Metropolitan Handicap behind Mitole and McKinzie at Belmont Park in June.

Bin Suroor said: "Thunder Snow retires to stud and he means a hell of a lot for me and for the Godolphin team.

"He achieved great results for us and is definitely one of the best I've trained. He bounced back tremendously after the bucking incident in the 2017 Kentucky Derby and was an extremely tough horse."

As well as his triumphs in Dubai, Thunder Snow recorded notable efforts when second in last year's Jockey Club Gold Cup before finishing third in the Breeders' Cup Classic.

However, the trainer cited the tough-as-teak Thunder Snow's historic second Dubai World Cup victory as the highlight of a stellar career.

"He's the only horse to win the Dubai World Cup twice, and I think that was his greatest achievement on the track," said Bin Suroor. "He always tried his hardest and it won't be easy to find another one like him. We'll miss him greatly in the stable."

Campaigned predominantly at the highest level, Thunder Snow won eight of his 24 races including victories in Britain, France and Dubai in a career which yielded £12,671,800 in prize-money.

Stud plans are yet to be confirmed.

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