In a deal brokered by Matt Bowling of Bowling Bloodstock, multiple graded-stakes-winning and G1-placed Messier (Empire Maker – Checkered Past by Smart Strike) will take up stud duties at Rockridge Stud in Hudson, NY in 2025, it was announced today.
The Sam-Son Farm homebred was purchased at the Fasig-Tipton Selected Yearlings Sale (COVID year) by Donato Lanni on behalf of SF Bloodstock, Madaket Stables, and Starlight Racing for $470,000 – the highest-priced Empire Maker sold that year. Second in his debut at 2, he broke his maiden in his 2nd start in a MSW, winning by 6 ½ lengths. His next start was the G3 Bob Hope, where he bested Forbidden Kingdom by 3 ½ lengths, followed by a 2nd-place finish in the G2 Los Alamitos Futurity (behind Slow Down Andy). His best race would be his debut at three: a resounding victory in the G3 Robert B. Lewis, winning by 15 lengths and earning a 103 Beyer. He secured his place in the G1 Kentucky Derby with a 2nd-place finish in the G1 Santa Anita Derby in April of his three-year-old year (behind Taiba). He returned to top form with wins in the Excelsior S. at Aqueduct in March of this year, followed a few weeks later with a win in the G3 Westchester at the Belmont at Aqueduct meet. He retires with a record of 15-4-5-1 and earnings of $593,690.
SF’s Tom Ryan says, “Messier was an exceptionally athletic colt with a very high cruising speed. He won graded stakes races at ages 2 and 3 and again at age 5. His performance in the Bob Lewis was outstanding, stopping the clock at 1:42.4 and winning by 15 lengths with a 103 Beyer. He is an exciting addition to the stallion ranks in New York.”
Messier joins Americanrevolution, Chewing Gum, Disco Partner, Mind Control, Slumber (GB) and War Dancer for the 2025 season at Rockridge Stud. Messier will stand for $5,000 LFSN and a limited number of shares are available. For more information, contact Erin Robinson (859) 421-7531.
