The leading New Zealand stud farm Cambridge Stud, which is still coming to terms with the death of its high-profile new sire Roaring Lion, has been dealt another major blow with its star stallion, Tavistock, having to be withdrawn from service for the rest of the current breeding season.
The decision was made after Tavistock sustained an injury in his paddock that will impact his ability to cover over the coming weeks. He has covered 76 mares out of a large book with 43 in foal and 23 under service.
Last year's Cartier European Horse of the Year Roaring Lion, who was due to stand at Cambridge this season, succumbed to colic there in August.
“It has been a difficult year and naturally we are disappointed that Tavistock will not be able to complete his book for this season,” Cambridge Stud chief executive Henry Plumptre said. “However, long term his health is the only thing that matters, particularly with the representation he has coming through, and we will focus on having him back for the 2020 season.”
Tavistock has had a strong start to the racing season, particularly in Australia, off the back of good sale results. A dual G1 winning son of Montjeu, he is the sire of 18 individual stakes winners, including G1 winners Werther, Tarzino, Volkstok'n'barrell and Tavago.