Champion sire Fastnet Rock retired from stallion duties
Fastnet Rock, one of the most celebrated stallions of modern times, has been retired from stallion duties at Coolmore Australia. The decision marks the end of an era for the iconic son of Danehill whose dominance on the track and prolific success at stud have left an indelible mark on the sport.
“Fastnet Rock has been a once-in-a-lifetime horse, and we are immensely grateful for the incredible journey he has taken us on. I hope he will enjoy a long and happy retirement here at Jerrys Plains,” said Coolmore’s Tom Magnier. “His legacy will endure for generations to come, and we look forward to seeing his influence continue to shape the future of the sport. His son Acrobat was the fastest 2YO ever at Randwick over 1000m and if his first foals are anything to go by, we’ll be hearing a lot more about him in the future.”
Foaled in 2001, Fastnet Rock quickly established himself as a formidable force on the racetrack. Following back-to-back Group 1 successes in the Lightning Stakes and Oakleigh Plate for trainer Paul Perry he was crowned Champion 3YO Sprinter of 2004/05.
However, it was Fastnet Rock’s transition to stud duty that truly solidified his legacy. Twice Champion Sire in Australia, no less than 43 of his sons and daughters have achieved success at Group 1 level with the likes of Avantage, Atlantic Jewel, and Mosheen cementing his reputation as one of the preeminent sires of his generation.
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