Balletto retired after surgery

Balletto, who became the first horse bred in the United Arab Emirates to win a Grade 1 race in North America, has been retired from racing after undergoing colic surgery.

, bred by Sheikh Mohammed's Darley Stud, won the Grade 1 Frizette at Belmont Park last October before finishing second in the Breeders' Cup Juvenile Fillies. She was a finalist for the Eclipse Award in the 2-year-old filly division.

Balletto wintered in Dubai and returned to North America a month ago with several Godolphin Racing horses based at Belmont Park. Upon her return, she developed a severe case of colic, which required surgery.

"She had an impaction that they were able to move through without having to take out any intestine," said Jim Bell, the president of Darley's American operation. "She would have lost an awful lot of time.''

Balletto is currently convalescing at Jonabell Farm in Lexington, Ky., and will be bred next year.

Balletto, a daughter of Timber Country out of the dam Destiny Dance, had 3 victories and 2 seconds from 5 starts. Trained by Tom Albertrani last year, Balletto earned $614,000.