Romanov II to be ridden by Ireland's Billy Twomey

Philip Spivey and Romanov II

Romanov II has been sold to Billy Twomey's owners and will now be competed by the Irish rider.

The 12-year-old chestnut stallion, a son of Heartbreaker, has enjoyed a successful career to date with Philip Spivey since joining his yard as a two-year-old, including winning the Horse & Hound Foxhunter final in 2005. He has also enjoyed international success including competing on British Nations Cups teams.

"I am gutted, but he has taken me to places that no other horse ever has. And for that I am grateful," said Philip. "His owner [Stackhouse Stud's Tracey Forrest] is a good owner of mine and was made an offer that really couldn't be refused. We have got youngstock of his at home and will work on bringing them on."

Romanov is has been entered as a ride for Billy at Olympia next week.

An official statement is due to be made on Romanov's Facebook page and the Stackhouse Stud website soon.