Ruler On Ice Retired, One Last Visit to Monmouth Paddock
Belmont Stakes winner Ruler On Ice has been retired from racing and prior to shipping to George and Lori Hall’s farm in Kentucky early next week he’ll have one more spin in the Monmouth Park paddock when he leads the field over for Saturday’s Long Branch Stakes.
“It’s been a great five years with him,” said trainer Kelly John Breen, who has had the son of Haskell winner Roman Ruler since he was a 2-year-old. “He’s had some minor leg issues that would prevent him from competing at the top of the game. He’s given us some great thrills and for me personally, the biggest win of my career. He’ll be missed around the barn.”
Ruler On Ice debuted on Sept. 19, 2010 at Monmouth, finishing fifth in a maiden special weight event. Following his win in the 2011 Belmont Stakes, Ruler On Ice went on to finish third in the Haskell, second in the Pennsylvania Derby and third in the Breeders’ Cup Classic.
From a career that spanned 23 races, the Kentucky-bred gelding earned $1,709,566 with a lifetime mark of 4-5-3.
FOURTH FESTIVITIES CONTINUE THROUGH THE WEEKEND AT MONMOUTH
Fourth of July weekend celebrations continue Saturday at Monmouth Park with the Heroes’ Backyard Picnic, as all military, police, EMT, and fire personnel in uniform or with I.D. receive free admission to the park.
The Picnic will also include a games pit with horseshoes and cornhole, as well as various eating competitions. Fans can also enjoy live music each day, with Family Fun Day on Sunday.
The rest of the weekend’s festivities include the jockey and Thoroughbred memorabilia sale, and is capped by the Grade 1 United Nations Stakes and beach towel giveaway.