Top turf sire English Channel dies at 19 after sudden illness

Perennial leading turf sire English Channel’s health rapidly declined in the past 24 hours and under the care of top equine specialists at Rood and Riddle Equine Hospital, English Channel passed this morning. He was 19.

English Channel experienced success in his racing career, which led to a prolific stallion career that is only matched by some of the greats.

“English Channel certainly went out on top. He was the number 1 turf sire for the past two years and you could consistently find his progeny on the board in the top turf races across the country," read a statement from Calumet Farm.

“English Channel has meant so much to Calumet throughout the years and we appreciate all the breeders who also supported him.” 

English Channel will be buried in the famed Calumet cemetery alongside many other champions from the farm’s storied history.

“It is a well-earned and fitting final resting place for such a spectacular horse.”

English Channel won multiple Grade 1s on the track, including the 2007 Breeders' Cup Turf at Monmouth. At the time of his death, he had sired seven champions, seven millionaires, 32 graded-stakes winners and 62 black-type winners, according to the Calumet Farm web site. This year he is again North America's leading turf sire.