The world of horse racing has a new star in the making! The Prince of Monaco, a renowned Grade 1 winner, has fathered his first reported foal, and it's a filly! But this isn't just any ordinary filly.
Wasabi Ventures Stables proudly announced the birth of this special filly on January 16th. Born on January 12th at Serendipity Springs, near Lexington, she is the offspring of the Justify mare, Itgetsgreaterlater, who was purchased by the Kuegler family's Wasabi Ventures Stables for a substantial $80,000 at the 2023 Keeneland November Breeding Stock Sale. And her pedigree is truly impressive.
"This filly is extraordinary," exclaimed George Adams, the director of stallions and breeding at Wasabi Ventures Stables. He described her as having "a powerful presence" and being "exceptionally well-built." Adams believes the stallion's influence is evident, and if her siblings inherit these qualities, Prince of Monaco's reputation will soar.
The Prince of Monaco, a Speightstown progeny, was a highly valued yearling, fetching $950,000 at Fasig-Tipton's 2022 The Saratoga Sale. Under the guidance of trainer Bob Baffert, he showcased his talent early on, winning his debut race at age 2 by an impressive 8 lengths. He then went on to claim consecutive victories in the prestigious Best Pal Stakes (G3) and the Del Mar Futurity (G1), both held at the renowned Del Mar racetrack.
As a 3-year-old, Prince of Monaco demonstrated his prowess again, finishing a close second to the formidable multiple Grade 1 winner Book'em Danno in the Woody Stephens Stakes (G1). He followed this up with another impressive performance, placing second by a mere neck in the H. Allen Jerkens Memorial Stakes (G1).
And here's where it gets interesting: In his first breeding season, Prince of Monaco bred 176 mares, a quarter of which were black-type horses, indicating a high level of quality. With a stud fee of $30,000, he is set to make a significant impact on the breeding world.
So, what do you think? Is Prince of Monaco destined for greatness as a stallion? Will his offspring dominate the tracks? Share your thoughts and predictions in the comments below, and let's celebrate the exciting future of horse racing!
