The career of globetrotting sprinter Takeover Target is over after he fractured a cannon bone in the July Cup at Newmarket.

Retired- Takeover Target

The 10-year-old appeared to run his usual solid race in seventh behind Fleeting Spirit but a problem emerged afterwards.

In the immediate aftermath trainer Joe Janiak and Takeover Target’s jockey Jay Ford were too upset to talk but Janiak told the Racing Post on Saturday morning: “Thankfully, it’s all good news. Takeover Target cracked a cannon bone but he’s had five screws inserted and will be box rested at the hospital for a couple of months.

“He seems fine after the operation and he needs to rest. He has been a fantastic horse and we have had some great adventures with him.”

Janiak famously bought the sprinter for $1,250 in 2003 while he was still a taxi driver. He won eight races at the highest level and was a regular visitor to Royal Ascot, but had to miss the meeting this year after a small setback. Takeover Target retires with 21 career wins and earnings of more than $6 million.

Some Takeover Target Moments…
Kings Stand 2006 Royal Ascot