www.kznbreeders.co.za/News24092014.html
Muhtafal Retired From Stud Duties
Muhtafal, pictured at Summerhill Stallion Day in 2012. Image: Candiese Marnewick
Shadwell has announced that its South African-based sire Muhtafal has been retired from stud duties at the age of 22.
Bred and raced in the United States, the son of Mr Prospector won two races by wide margins over sprint distances during his career.
Muhtafal progressed to stakes company on his third racecourse appearance, where he started as favourite for the Grade 3 Kentucky Derby Trial.
He led champion sprinter Mr Greeley (sire of Gr1 Middle Park winner Crusade standing at Scott Bros) for most of the race and, despite suffering a career-ending injury, managed to finish a creditable fifth.
Paris Perfect, placed 3rd in the Gr1 Dubai World Cup.
He began his stud career at Shadwell Farm in Kentucky before relocating to South Africa, where he spent time at Summerhill Stud before taking up residence at Spring Valley Stud.
Muhtafal proved popular in South Africa. One of the best sons of Mr Prospector to stand in the southern hemisphere, he produced black-type winners and performers including Gr1 winners' Disappear, Let's Rock 'n Roll as well as Thunder Key, First Again and KZN Breeders inaugural Million Mile winner Knock On Wood. He also produced Gr1 Dubai World Cup placed Paris Perfect. The sire of 439 progeny to race, he produced an incredible 312 winners (71.0%) with earnings of over $13 million. They included 29 stakes winners and 25 stakes placegetters.
Bruce and Delia Le Roux of Spring Valley Stud said: "Muhtafal has been a great servant and truly owes us nothing. The KwaZulu-Natal Breeders and all at Spring Valley are truly grateful for the support from His Highness Sheikh Hamdan and Shadwell."
Muhtafal will continue to reside at Spring Valley Stud in his retirement.
