American Pharoah had a head start but is living up to billing with his juveniles

When faced with an incoming stallion of the ilk of American Pharoah, this industry immediately throws itself into a state of immense anticipation.

It is only natural. Rather like Frankel and Secretariat before him, American Pharoah retired to stud with his reputation as one of the great runners of his era intact.

As the first American Triple Crown winner in 37 years, he was a national icon, one potent enough to attract a crowd of 15,000 to just watch him turn in a morning gallop at Saratoga. He won eight Grade 1s, $9 million in prize-money and even once adorned the front cover of Vogue.