Stakes-winning Stage Raider (Pioneerof the Nile–Stage Magic, by Ghostzapper), a half-brother to Triple Crown winner Justify (Scat Daddy), has been retired from racing and will take up stud duties next year at Pope McLean's Crestwood Farm. Bred and campaigned by John Gunther, Stage Raider won last year's R.A. Cowboy Jones Stakes at Ellis Park and was third in the GIII Ack Ack Stakes at Churchill Downs.
“My dad and I really believe in this horse and we are excited to start him on his new stallion career,” said Tanya Gunther. “Being a half-brother to international sire sensation Justify, a great physical, combined with the brilliance he showed early in his career, gives him a license to be a high-class sire. The genetics are there for greatness, considering Pioneerof the Nile sired a Triple Crown winner and his dam Stage Magic produced a Triple Crown winner who is now an elite sire.”
Tabbed a 'TDN Rising Star' after a 10 3/4-length maiden win at Keeneland in 2021, Stage Raider hit the board in eight of 18 starts, with four wins, and earned $423,370.
“It is an honor to partner with the Gunthers on Stage Raider,” said Pope McLean, Jr. “They have an incredibly impressive resume as the breeders of Grade I winners, including the likes of Justify, First Samurai, Mo Town, Tamarkuz, Vino Rosso, Stay Thirsty and Without Parole. We believe that working together, Stage Raider has a tremendous chance to be a top sire.”
Stage Raider will stand for $6,500 Live Foal (Payable Stands and Nurse). A limited lifetime breeding right program will be available. The stallion will be available for inspection starting in November. For more information, contact Crestwood Farm at 859-252-3770.
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