Four-year-old filly Thorpedo Anna was voted the US’s top racehorse of 2024 after winning five Grade 1 races, including the Breeders’ Cup Distaff
The trainer of the US’s reigning horse of the year has told told fans they can ‘rest at ease’ after announcing the filly’s retirement. Thorpedo Anna was trained by Kenny Mc Peek to win 12 of her 16 starts and earn more than £4 million in prize-money
She came to the fore in 2024 when her victories included the Kentucky Oaks, Acorn Stakes, American Oaks, Cotillion Stakes and Breeders’ Cup Distaff. Her success earned her Eclipse Awards as Horse of the Year and champion three-year-old filly.
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She raced on at four, winning another four races, including the Grade 1 Apple Blossom Handicap and Personal Ensign but ran a rare poor race when fourth in the Spinster Stakes this month.
On Wednesday McPeek confirmed the anticipated news that Thorpedo Anna was retired from racing and would become a broodmare.
“For everybody out there that’s worried about her, you can rest at ease. She’s fine.” McPeek said. “She has been examined by several veterinarians.
“Dr. Bramlage of Rood and Riddle found some very mild bone bruising which is consistent with horses in work at her level and she could go back to training in 90 days, but we have opted to retire her.”
A 20 percent share in the fully will be auctioned at Keeneland’s Championship Sale October 29th at Del Mar.
Her part-owner John G Sikura said: “As a racehorse, Thorpedo Anna is one of the most accomplished fillies in history and has been an exciting horse to watch. Everyone at Hill ‘n’ Dale looks forward to being a part of her next chapter as a top broodmare.”
McPeek added “We’re really proud of her. She’s had tremendous support – thank you to all the fans that have cheered her on during her career.”