‘Cyfor’ enjoys his retirement close to the yard in the care of former head lad Dennis Dummett and his partner Norma where he spent most of his time with the late Miinnehoma. Winner of a hurdle race and 2 chases in France before he joined Pond House Cyfor Malta went on to become one of the best chasers the yard has ever had. He won the Cathcart, John Hughes and Murphy’s Gold Cup in 1998 before winning the Pillar chase in 1999. Despite some injury setbacks he won another big handicap chase at Newbury and then the Thomas Pink Gold Cup at Cheltenham in 2002. He was placed in several other top races and did connections proud. A truly great horse of his generation.
‘Miinne’ won the 1994 Grand National for his owner Liverpool comedian Freddie Starr and provided Richard Dunwoody with his second winner in the great race. He beat Just So in a thrilling finish. Miinnehoma was the winner of 11 of his 26 career starts including the Sun Alliance novices chase at Cheltenham, the Newton chase at Haydock and of course the Grand National. He also finished placed on a further 7 occasions including 3rd in the 1995 Cheltenham Gold Cup. He was a huge celebrity and enjoyed annual trips to Aintree for the Grand National winner’s parade where he was one of the main draws. Sadly Miinnehoma passed away peacefully in July 2012 after a long and happy retirement - he was 29 years old.
Miinnehoma (left) & Cyfor Malta (right) enjoying their retirement
