An outstanding chapter in the history of Australasian racing is nearing its end with champion sire Zabeel retired from stallion duties and, bar for a couple of foals currently on the ground in New Zealand, his final crop of any significance first came up for auction at Karaka in January. With his fillies in such great demand as he continues to stamp himself as a freak broodmare sire as well, we concentrated on securing a colt from the 15 on offer, 75 % of his male offspring available across all yearling sales this year. And while the dominance of Zabeel's stock on the racetracks hasn't waned in the twilight of his career, his young stock have become much more affordable and we were surprised to have secured what we deemed was his best colt at Karaka for not much more than 50% of the stallion's nomination fee.
A balanced colt with plenty of scope, he has the same tough outlook as his dam Katy Keen which won 10 races from 1600m-2500m in New Zealand - seven in succession at 4 - including four Group and stakes races. His pedigree also combines the proven cross with the dam sire a son of Australasia's other great recent stallion influence Danehill and the blend of Zabeel over Danehill mares has proved a highly successful formula.
We suggest you take this last opportunity while its available to experience the potent racetrack power that sons and daughters of Zabeel have underlined for almost two decades.