First British Runner for American Pharoah to Debut
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Photo: Anne M. Eberhardt
The American Pharoah colt consigned as Hip 533 in the back walking ring at the 2018 Keeneland January Sale
Caravaggio's half brother Hong Kong will become the first British runner for U.S. Triple Crown hero American Pharoah when the $1 million colt lines up in a six-furlong maiden stakes May 16 at York.
Trained by Aidan O'Brien for the Coolmore partners, the February-foaled youngster was the most expensive yearling sold at last year's Keeneland January Horses of All Ages Sale, where he was signed for by M.V. Magnier. Ryan Moore will ride.
Bred by Windmill Manor Farms and Petaluma Bloodstock, Hong Kong—whose name was briefly changed to Kentucky Bluegrass—is one of eight named foals out of the stakes-winning sprinter Mekko Hokte, a Holy Bull mare whose produce record also includes grade 2 winner My Jen.
Caravaggio, who retired to Coolmore Stud in Ireland last year at a fee of €35,000 (US$39,275), is her most accomplished performer. The son of Scat Daddy won the Coventry Stakes (G2) and Keeneland Phoenix Stakes (G1) at 2 and the Commonwealth Cup (G1) and Derrinstown Stud Flying Five Stakes (G2) at 3.
American Pharoah has supplied two first-crop winners to date, with the O'Brien-trained Investec Derby (G1) entry Monarch of Egypt, who was formerly named Horus Bird, opening his account in convincing style at Naas last month.
Monarch of Egypt races in the colors of Peter Brant and the Coolmore partners after being acquired for $750,000 at last year's Keeneland September Yearling Sale.
American Pharoah's other winner is the Wesley Ward-trained Aqueduct Racetrack scorer Maven.