Unlocking the Potential of a True Champion
A Precocious Prodigy with Unparalleled Grit
National Treasure's racing career was marked by a remarkable blend of precocity and tenacity. As a juvenile, he showcased his talent by placing in the highly competitive Breeders' Cup Juvenile, a testament to his early maturity and potential. His ascent continued as a 3-year-old, where he etched his name in the annals of racing history by capturing the prestigious Preakness Stakes, cementing his status as a classic winner.The colt's prowess was not limited to his early years, however. As he matured, National Treasure continued to dominate the competition, securing victories in the prestigious Pegasus World Cup and the iconic Metropolitan Handicap. These triumphs underscored his ability to perform at the highest level, both as a young upstart and as a seasoned campaigner.
Trainer Bob Baffert, who guided National Treasure's remarkable journey, spoke glowingly of the horse's consistency and reliability. "National Treasure was one of the most consistent and reliable horses I have ever worked with," Baffert remarked. "In addition to his elite race record–competing in 13 Grade I races over 28 months–he completed 75 published workouts in California, demonstrating an insatiable appetite for training."
A Streamlined Powerhouse with Unparalleled Athleticism
National Treasure's physical attributes were as impressive as his racing accomplishments. Described as "very streamlined–almost light–but possessing great power and efficient motion with a high cruising speed," the colt's physique contributed to his longevity and success on the track.Tom Ryan, representing SF Bloodstock, praised National Treasure's exceptional physical makeup, stating, "His physical makeup contributed to his longevity: he is very streamlined–almost light–but possesses great power and efficient motion with a high cruising speed."
This combination of power, efficiency, and speed made National Treasure a formidable force, capable of dominating his competitors and cementing his status as a true equine superstar.
A Missed Opportunity and a Promising Future
Despite his remarkable achievements, National Treasure's racing career was not without its setbacks. The colt was forced to miss the Breeders' Cup Dirt Mile due to a minor foot bruise, a disappointment that denied him the chance to add another prestigious victory to his resume.However, this setback has not diminished the excitement surrounding National Treasure's transition to the breeding shed. As he embarks on the next chapter of his career, the colt will take up residence at the renowned Spendthrift Farm, where he will stand stud in 2025 for an introductory fee of $40,000 S&N.
Ned Toffey, the general manager of Spendthrift Farm, expressed his enthusiasm for National Treasure's arrival, stating, "National Treasure comes to Spendthrift with the credentials to become an important sire, and we are very excited for him to enter the next chapter in his already tremendous career."
A Pedigree Worthy of a Champion
National Treasure's impressive racing resume is complemented by a pedigree that further enhances his appeal as a sire. The $500,000 yearling purchase at the 2021 Fasig-Tipton Saratoga Sale, National Treasure is a son of the esteemed sire Quality Road, whose progeny have consistently demonstrated their ability to excel at the highest levels of the sport.Moreover, National Treasure's dam, the Medaglia d'Oro mare Treasure, adds further depth to his pedigree, ensuring that he possesses the genetic potential to sire top-class racehorses. With such a strong foundation, National Treasure's transition to the breeding shed promises to be an exciting and highly anticipated chapter in his illustrious career.
As National Treasure embarks on his new role as a sire, the racing world eagerly awaits the opportunity to witness the next generation of champions that may emerge from his offspring. With his unparalleled talent, grit, and pedigree, the future looks bright for this equine superstar as he begins the next phase of his remarkable journey.