HorseRacing
Legacy of Speed: The Enduring Impact of Teller Cartel
2025-02-22
The racing world mourns the loss of Teller Cartel, a legendary Quarter Horse who left an indelible mark on both the track and breeding industry. Born in Oklahoma and bred by C/C Stock Farm, this champion stallion not only excelled as a racer but also became a prolific sire, influencing bloodlines across continents.
Remembering a Legend: Teller Cartel's Unmatched Legacy
A Champion’s Early Triumphs
Teller Cartel’s career began with unparalleled promise. As a two-year-old, he quickly established himself as a force to be reckoned with. His performances were nothing short of spectacular, earning him the title of Champion 2-Year-Old Colt. In just nine starts, Teller Cartel won three races, finished second twice, and placed third twice, accumulating an impressive $1,212,471 in prize money. His most notable victory came at the All-American Futurity (G1), one of the premier events in Quarter Horse racing. This triumph solidified his reputation as a top-tier athlete. Despite finishing third in the Golden State Million Futurity (G1) and being a finalist in the Los Alamitos Million Futurity (G1), Teller Cartel consistently demonstrated his exceptional talent and resilience.Breeding Excellence: A Genetic Powerhouse
Transitioning from the racetrack to the breeding shed, Teller Cartel proved equally formidable. Over the course of his stud career, he sired over 346 winners, including Llano Teller, whose earnings surpassed $1,770,007. The collective progeny of Teller Cartel earned more than $12 million, showcasing his genetic superiority. With a speed index of 108, Teller Cartel ranks as the second-highest money-earning son of Corona Cartel.Breeders sought after Teller Cartel for his ability to pass on traits like speed, strength, and docility. His influence extended beyond the United States, particularly to Brazil, where he became a leading sire. Initially part of a syndicate in the U.S., Teller Cartel eventually moved to Brazil in 2016, where he continued to leave an indelible mark on the equine world.Global Influence: From Oklahoma to Brazil
Teller Cartel’s journey began in Oklahoma, where he was sold for $87,000 at the Ruidoso Select Yearling Sale. His potential was evident even then. After establishing himself in the U.S., Teller Cartel ventured to Brazil, where he became a cornerstone of the breeding industry. His frozen semen remains available in the U.S. through Royal Vista Southwest in Purcell, Oklahoma, ensuring his legacy continues.The announcement of Teller Cartel’s passing on his official Facebook page underscored his immense contributions. Described as a "Grand Champion" and "consecrated stallion," Teller Cartel’s genetic legacy will live on through countless champions and high-performing horses. His impact on the Brazilian and international breeds is undeniable, contributing significantly to the sport and breeding programs worldwide.Influence Beyond Racing: Barrel Racing Bloodlines
Beyond the racetrack, Teller Cartel’s influence extends into barrel racing. Alan Woodbury of Woodbury Performance Horses integrated Teller Cartel’s genetics into his elite breeding program. Combining Teller Cartel’s lineage with National Finals Rodeo qualifying mares, Woodbury has produced remarkable results. One standout example is BTR Moonflash, a product of Woodbury’s breeding program, which has already shown great promise in the 2025 futurity season.Teller Cartel’s daughters, such as Tell Em Twice, have proven invaluable in producing fast, agile, and competitive barrel horses. These horses carry forward Teller Cartel’s genetic legacy, ensuring that his influence endures in multiple disciplines of equestrian sports.