Curved Ball to stud

DEAR Freeracer, I stumbled on your contact details whilst seeking information on the final fields for this year’s Met. I am not a regular punter but do pay special attention to all major horseracing events.  I am not sure whether you are at liberty to address my enquiry since I’m not a subscriber.

When I saw the initial entries for the Met some time ago, a certain five-year-old’s name struck a chord in my head -  I remember watching a major race on TV a few years back when Curved Ball pulverised his opposition.  I really liked the way he won and vowed to follow him through to some major victories.  But that was not to be as he vanished completely from the scene until recently.

I have researched his whereabouts and tried to find out where he was or the reason for his long absence to no avail.  Can one of you please shed some light on what happened to him and why he was out for approximately two years.

Like I said I thought that he would win a major race like the Durban July.  After having seen the final field for the Met I’m disappointed that he will not be participating as I’m sure he still has it in him to win something big.

I really appreciate your assistance.

-Avid supporter, Jeeva Pather

Derek Brugman, Racing Manager for Mayfair Speculators (Markus Jooste), who owns Curved Ball, writes in answer:

Hi, Curved Ball has been retired to stud after suffering a recurring tendon injury.