TOM George has announced the retirement of multiple Grade 1 winner God's Own.

The 11-year-old bows out with three top-level wins and over £625,000 in prize money to his name.

God's Own was beaten 23 lengths into fifth on his reappearance in the Haldon Gold Cup last month.

And following discussions with his owners, the decision was made to call time on his career.

George said: "The decision has been made to retire God’s Own.

"He’s been a fantastic horse for us and his owners, the Crossed Fingers Partnership, and we’re delighted we’ve been able to call it a day with him while he’s healthy and sound.

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"It’s quite fitting his last run was in the Haldon Gold Cup at Exeter, a race he had won in 2014 and again last year.

"They were great days and his three Grade 1 wins – two at the Punchestown Festival and one at Aintree’s Grand National meeting – are treasured by all of us."

God's Own was unable to get his head in front at the Cheltenham Festival, but he hit the frame on several occasions.

George continued: "Basil, as he is known around the yard, was runner-up behind Un De Sceaux in the Arkle in 2015 and he went on to finish third, fourth and fifth in the Champion Chase.

"It was only in April that he finished third – five lengths behind Altior – at Sandown on the final day of the season.

"He’s still capable of running in the top two-mile races but he will officially turn 12 on New Year’s Day.

"With the recent wet weather meaning he’s unlikely to get his favoured good ground this winter, it would not be fair to ask him take on the younger generation with conditions against him.

"It’s been a pleasure to have Basil at Down Farm for more than seven years and we’re delighted he’s been found the best home for his retirement.

"He will spend the rest of winter here at Down Farm before going off to live with his regular work rider Sherrie-Anne Derrick.

"She has ridden him almost every day he’s been here, so we know he will live the life of luxury he deserves in his old age."

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