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  • Group 1 Mare Bella Vella To Retire

    Thursday, 1st April 2021

    Adelaide trainer Will Clarken has retired his Group 1-winning mare Bella Vella (Commands-Forget The Weather, by Stormy Atlantic), reports racingsa.com.au. "Although she has come through Saturday's run (Gr1 Galaxy Handicap) in excellent condition, I have decided the travel back to Adelaide for the Sangster and then on to her final destination under our care, the Gold Coast National Broodmare Sale in May, is unnecessary," Clarken said. "Bella Vella has been a life-changing horse for me, and my priority now is to give her the best chance to be in top condition to demonstrate what a quality mare she is as she starts the path to her new career at stud. Since arriving in my stable in May 2019, the good fortune and profile she has brought to Clarken Racing has been untold and far beyond our expectations…" Clarken noted, "The overwhelming enthusiasm she put into her race-day performances and her unique character made her an exceptional horse. She was tough, genuine, professional and a pleasure to work with…" Bella Vella was purchased by Clarken in an online auction for $22,500 having won three races for various trainers. Her complete career record stands at ten wins from 34 starts, including the 2020 Gr1 Sangster Stakes over 1200m. "I want to thank the ownership group for allowing me to have free rein during her time in the stable, and also all of my staff, vets, farriers, track work and race-day riders for the effort they placed into her," Clarken said. "She has repaid this countless times over and will be held in high esteem as the first of what is hopefully many Group 1 winners on Clarken Racing's honour roll."