Olly and Hetta Stevens to quit training
The couple have been a hugely important component in the success of Sheikh Fahad's Qatar Racing and Pearl Bloodstock interests, and, while understanding the couple's decision, he is naturally saddened. Sheikh Fahad bought Surrey-based Robins Farm Racing in 2012, and has backed Olly and Hetta as they developed the site into a first-class training facility.
In a statement, Olly said: "With a mixture of sadness and relief I can announce that after this season I will not be renewing my trainer's licence and Hetta and I will be leaving Robins Farm. It is our intention to continue as normal until the end of the season and we are determined to go out on a high and reward all our owners for their support and loyalty.
Hetta and Olly, being interviewed by Gina Bryce
"We have some exciting plans for Lightning Spear, who has been a flag bearer for Robins Farm this year, and we hope that he will help us sign off in style, possibly by adding another chapter to our list of international adventures. Options for Lightning Spear include next month's Woodbine Mile in Toronto and maybe a subsequent tilt at the Breeders' Cup or a possible trip to Melbourne for the Emirates Stakes at Flemington.
"In making our decision to stop training, Hetta and I have decided to put our family first. Our three-and-a-half-year-old twin girls are fast approaching an age when they will remember the environment they are growing up in. In wanting to make the most of the amazing opportunity we have been given at Robins Farm, Hetta and I have worked very closely together as a team, but at the cost to our family. It would not have worked if Hetta had taken a step back as she is very hands-on in the running of our team of staff and horses.
"We have experienced some incredible highs in our three years of training, notably our first Royal Ascot winner, Extortionist, and Peace and War making history in Keeneland by becoming the first British-trained juvenile to win a Grade 1 on dirt. Then there was the achievement of Lightning Thunder finishing second in two Classics last season and Green Door winning the Flying Childers in our first year.
Proud moment as Olly and Hetta join Sheikh Fahad and Extortionist at Royal Ascot
"However, we have found the setbacks, such as injuries to key horses, hard to deal with. The downsides to training that we have experienced are nothing new and none that other trainers don't have. And I acknowledge that we are saying that from an incredibly fortuitous position in view of the wonderful backing and support we have received from Sheikh Fahad. Perhaps, what does set us slightly apart is the extent to which both Hetta and I are involved day-to-day, twenty-four seven, to ensure Robins Farm Ltd is commercially successful.
"Naturally, I have spoken to Sheikh Fahad about our decision. He was surprised and shocked but ultimately, and it is indicative of the kind man he is, his first thoughts were for Hetta and our family and he believes that they must come first.
"As for what happens at Robins Farm, that is a matter for Sheikh Fahad and David Redvers. The yard has proven itself to be a great place to train horses and there has been a significant investment in the facilities. I could see another trainer doing very well here.
Our team of staff at Robins Farm have been incredible during our time here and none of our achievements would have been possible without them.
Olly and Johnny Murtagh sharing a joke at Royal Ascot
"Tegan Clark, our Head Girl and winner of the Godolphin Stable Staff Newcomer award last year, has excelled beyond belief. Having come from a non-racing background and starting with us when we first moved in, she has proven to be a wonderful exercise rider. Her attention to detail on all matters within the yard has meant we can spend time at the sales/racing with no concerns.
"Simon Humphries has also been with us from the start having come from John Dunlop. Simon has a wealth of experience and has been our rock of the yard. He was the one who told us Extortionist would win at Royal Ascot and he partners Lightning Spear every day in his exercise, putting 100% effort into the best horse we have had in our care to date. There is no doubt Simon has been the voice of reason when we have depended on it most.
"Hetta and I have no regrets. We have always dreamt of training and to do so together was a super opportunity. We have had some wonderful highs, met great people and handled some very special horses and we aim to close this particular chapter in our lives going out at the top."