Kirtlington Stud provide three-star service to celebrity chef Bobby Flay

A significant chapter of Chris Budgett's life could soon be drawing to a close and he marked it in memorable fashion when his only offering at Book 1 sold to Godolphin for an impressive 625,000gns.

The 64-year-old might just have a celebratory dinner to look forward to somewhere down the line as he was offering the Frankel colt on behalf of Bobby Flay, a well-known celebrity TV chef in America.

Flay had bought the dam, Auld Alliance, here for 550,000gns eight years ago and raced her with some success with Graham Motion. Bred by the Ballymacoll Stud operation, Auld Alliance is a Montjeu half-sister to both the Guineas and King George winner Golan and Derby runner-up Tartan Bearer.

Already responsible for a full-brother Modus Operandi, a winner for Aidan O'Brien this year, her younger progeny was a colt of considerable substance and presence.

Budgett said: "I’ve been very fortunate to raise some really good horses, and you know they’re above average, and every now and then there’s one that's a little bit more. To me, he’s one of those on that next level.

"Who knows, he’s got to run, but he was an absolutely cracking individual. I haven’t spoken to Bobby Flay yet but I hope he’s happy as well!

"I spoke to him for the first time today, even though we’ve looked after the mare for two years, he’s a charming man. James Delahooke advised him on the mating and we send them pictures every month and a report. He's a busy man - he’s filming at the moment, so whether he managed to watch that, I’ve no idea."

Chris Budgett and Kirtlington Stud have been associated with Harbinger and Sir PercyCredit: Laura Green

Budgett announced in June that he was putting Soulcombe, his Oxfordshire farm, on the market, and is intending to downsize but perhaps to still continue trading under his Kirtlington Stud banner in some capacity elsewhere. Over the years he has been affiliated with such superstars as Sir Percy and Harbinger.

"We had the place sold earlier in the year but sadly it fell through," he said. "Since then it’s been a little sticky but we love living there so that’s fine. We’ve got to make a decision what we do, and if that was the last through Book 1, that’s a good way to finish.

"It really depends on where we buy and what we do. We’ll keep some but I’ve cut down my mares to four, with three in partnership with other people. I might try to find one or two more decent mares and have a bit of fun."

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