Gordon Elliott Transfers €226,000 Horse to New Stables for Fresh Start

Gordon Elliott has transferred the racehorse American Mike, valued at €226,000, from his yard, suggesting that a change of environment may benefit the horse. The eight-year-old has had a mixed racing career, securing five victories out of 19 races under official rules. His last notable win occurred at Navan in February 2024, where he triumphed over the eventual Grand National winner, Nick Rockett, in a Grade 2 Novice Chase by a margin of 1¼ lengths.

After this success, American Mike faced challenges, finishing far behind the leaders in his most recent outing during the Punchestown Festival in late April. In that race, he finished over 50 lengths behind the winner, Kaid d’Authie. Following this performance, Elliott decided that a fresh perspective could help revitalize the horse’s career.

The horse has moved to Olly Murphy’s Warren Chase Stables in Stratford-upon-Avon. Murphy, who previously served as Elliott’s assistant trainer for four years, expressed optimism about American Mike’s potential. In an interview with Racing TV‘s Josh Stacey, he stated, “He’s been a horse who hasn’t quite reached the expectations as a novice it looked like he might. I am just starting to get to know him.”

Murphy noted that Elliott was the one who suggested the transfer, indicating confidence in the horse’s ability to regain form. “I’m very lucky to have a horse like him and hopefully he can be competitive in some handicap chases,” Murphy added. He acknowledged the support of owners Noel and Valerie Moran, who sponsor Elliott’s yard and are also supportive of his own training efforts.

The new trainer emphasized that while American Mike has faced difficulties, he still possesses good form from the previous season. “We’re not just trying to find something that was there three years ago; he has got recent form as well,” Murphy stated, hinting at the horse’s untapped potential. The collaboration between Elliott and Murphy highlights a shared goal of helping American Mike achieve success on the track once more.

As the racing community watches closely, the hope remains that this change of scenery will inspire a revival for American Mike, providing him with the opportunity to showcase his abilities in upcoming competitions.