Gainesway Farm Acquires Interest in Karakontie
Gainesway Farm announced today that it has purchased a partial interest in the regally bred French Classic winner and 2014 Breeders' Cup Mile (G1) Champion Karakontie from the Niarchos family.
Karakontie was one of the leading juveniles in Europe having won three races in four starts including the Group 1 Prix Jean-Luc Lagardere, earning him a Timeform rating of 115p.
As a three year old, Karakontie annexed the prestigious French 2,000 Guineas (G1), well known as a stallion making race. In the $2,000,000 Breeders' Cup Mile (G1), he showcased his brilliance and signature turn of foot, dominating a world class field of older horses, stopping the clock in 1:32 4/5.
Flaxman holdings has a rich history in the Mile, winning the race five times, twice with Miesque, the dam of Kingmambo and third dam of Karakontie.
"Gainesway's founder, John Gaines, transformed the stallion business through a bold vision to bring European imports to the farm. His vision paid handsome dividends with such significant stallions as Riverman, Green Dancer, Irish River, and Blushing Groom. Each of these imports, like Karakontie, won the French 2,000 Guineas. Other prominent winners of that stallion making race were Caro, Shamardal and Kingmambo himself," said farm owner Antony Beck. "Karakontie validated his European form with his sensational victory on Breeders' Cup day. We are excited to add him to our roster and delighted to be doing it with the Niarchos family."
"I am delighted that Karakontie is going to stand at Gainesway Farm. We believe his truly international bloodlines combine to make him a most exciting stallion prospect who we look forward to supporting strongly,’’ said Maria Niarchos-Gouazé.
"Karakontie strikes a strong resemblance to the Flaxman bred Kingmambo who hails from his immediate family," said Michael Hernon upon inspection of the horse at Chantilly.
Flaxman Holdings has retained a significant ownership interest. Both they and Gainesway are committed to devote the mares and resources to maximize the stallion's likelihood for success.
Karakontie will make his next start in the Breeders' Cup Mile (G1).
A stud fee will be announced after the Breeders' Cup.
Source: LGB. LLC.