Leading American turf sire English Channel dies aged 19

Leading turf sire English Channel has died at the age of 19 after his health rapidly declined over the past 24 hours while under the care of equine specialists at Rood & Riddle Equine Hospital.

"English Channel experienced success in his racing career, which lead to a prolific stallion career that is only matched by some of the greats," read a statement from Calumet Farm.

"English Channel certainly went out on top. He was the number one turf sire for the past two years and you could consistently find his progeny on the board in the top turf races across the country."

It continued: "English Channel has meant so much to Calumet throughout the years and we appreciate all the breeders who also supported him. English Channel will be buried in the famed Calumet cemetery alongside many other champions from the farm's storied history. It is a well-earned and fitting final resting place for such a spectacular horse."

The son of Smart Strike was North America's leading turf sire for 2020 with more than $4.78 million in progeny earnings and five Graded winners, including three-time Grade 1 winner Channel Maker.

The sire currently leads the North American turf sire standings with more than $6.3 million in progeny earnings.

His top runner this year is Grade 1 winner War Like Goddess, who won the Flower Bowl Stakes along with three other Graded races and most recently was third in the Breeders' Cup Filly and Mare Turf.

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