Barney Roy could return to training as fertility issues curtail stallion career

A return to training is among the options being considered by Godolphin for Barney Roy after the St James's Palace Stakes winner was found to be subfertile at the start of his stallion career.

The son of Excelebration, described last year by trainer Richard Hannon as "by far the best colt" he has ever trained, had his racing career cut short by injury and was added to the roster at Darley's Dalham Hall Stud in Newmarket in November.

Barney Roy's fee was set at £10,000 but alarm bells began to ring when a number of the mares who had visited him earlier in the spring were not subsequently scanned in foal. As soon as the results became available, nominations staff at Darley communicated with mare owners directly to discuss alternative breeding plans.

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Director of Darley stallions, Sam Bullard said: “While Barney Roy’s news was disappointing, we have worked hard with our clients to ensure they are happy with plans for their mares this year. We wish all of our breeders success with their mating plans in 2018.”

Despite his time at stud now being all but over, a return to training is not imminent for Barney Roy, whose injury is yet to heal sufficiently for vets to sanction a resumption of his racing career.

The situation continues to be monitored and could change as the summer progresses. Other options outside racing include allowing him to benefit from the extensive Lifetime Care programme that Godolphin maintains.

Hugh Anderson, managing director of Godolphin UK, added: "Reflecting the approach of our patron His Highness Sheikh Mohammed, the welfare of our horses is always Godolphin’s primary concern. Any decision on Barney Roy’s future will be made on that basis, informed by expert veterinary advice."

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