Americain will make his 2013 southern hemisphere breeding season debut at Swettenham Stud, the famous thoroughbred nursery which boasts a rich association with modern-day Melbourne Cup winners.
The 2010 Melbourne Cup hero and the hardluck tale of the 2011 edition, Americain has already started stallion duties at the famed United States stud Calumet Farm.
“Americain is not only a striking individual, he boasts amazing bloodlines and we look forward to helping Australasian breeders achieve the ultimate in breeding a Melbourne Cup winner,” Swettenham Stud’s Adam Sangster said.
Swettenham Stud was home to 1986 Melbourne Cup winner At Talaq as well as 1994 victor Jeune at different times of their stud careers.
Perhaps reflecting the Australian racing industry’s reluctance to breed stayers, Americain will stand at Swettenham for a seemingly modest introductory fee of $13,750.
“There was significant competition from high-profile studs in New South Wales to secure Americain and his presence will be an asset for the Victorian thoroughbred industry,” Sangster said.
Part-owner Kevin Bamford said he couldn’t wait until Americain’s sons and daughters made it to the racetrack.
“We look forward to seeing him make an impression and are excited about the prospect of racing some of his progeny in the years to come,” he said.
A son of champion United States sire Dynaformer, Americain was retired after finishing midfield in last year’s Melbourne Cup.
He won 11 races from 34 starts with his Australian record also including wins in the Geelong Cup, Moonee Valley Cup and Zipping Classic.