KILDARE trainer Stephen Nolan has been in touch on the retirement of old favourite Prince Rudi: “He retires sound at the age of 13 and that’s a great thing for a National Hunt horse. He will be out in the field here with his friends, two old ponies, and live out his days well, I hope.

“He earned over €120,000 for his connections and always gave 110%. He had a few niggly problems along the way but nothing major thank goodness.’’

A highlight of Prince Rudi’s career was winning the Ladbrokes Handicap Hurdle at Galway last year.

Stephen continued: “His owners are John Prunty and my sister Sandra Nolan and Prince Rudi’s career is a testament to the horse and to his owners who have been so good to me over the years.’’

Testament to good training – happy retirement Rudi.