Grade 1 Winner Illuminant Retired
By: Alicia Wincze Hughes
Grade 1 winner Illuminant has been retired from racing after she emerged from a recent workout with some minor signs of discomfort, her connections announced July 13.
According to trainer Michael McCarthy, subsequent diagnostics revealed the 5-year-old daughter of Quality Road had enough wear and tear that owners Eclipse Thoroughbred Partners, Head of Plains Partners LLC, SF Bloodstock, and Sol Kumin determined it was best to call it a day regarding her racing career. In her final start, Illuminant captured the May 27 Monrovia Stakes (G2T) over the downhill course at Santa Anita Park to earn her sixth victory of her career.
“Illuminant was a brilliant filly,” McCarthy said. “She did some things in the morning time and come game time that only extraordinary racehorses can do. I have been very fortunate to be around some elite fillies and she ranks right up there with the best of them. We are sad to see her leave the barn, because she is so special to me, my family, and our team, but we are proud she heads back to Kentucky in good order and ready to go on and tackle her new career as a broodmare.”