Danehill loss a huge blow to breeding industry
The 17-year-old stallion was being hand-grazed in his paddock when the accident happened, according to a Coolmore statement.
Coolmore manager Christy Grassick said: “Danehill was a phenomenal stallion and will be a big loss to the breeding industry worldwide.
“Alternative mating plans are being arranged for the shareholders and clients whose mares are not yet in foal.”
Danehill was the leading sire of Pattern-race winners in Europe last year with 13 winners of 24 races, knocking another Coolmore inmate, Sadler’s Wells, off top spot after a reign of six consecutive years.
He was also second to Sadler’s Wells in the table of leading sires in Britain and Ireland based on prize money won, and was the leading British or Irish-based sire for winners worldwide.
The most prolific of his progeny last season was the brilliant miler Rock Of Gibraltar, who won five times at Group One level in the colours of Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson.
His victories as a stallion continued right up to last weekend, when he was responsible for the first two home in the French 2000 Guineas, Clodovil and Catcher In The Rye. His first sons at stud are already making a big impression, led by Danehill Dancer, who was the leading second-season sire in Europe last year.
