MONARCH AH
Where Is He Now?
b y Mo r g a n Mo o re
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here are numerous racehorse legends alive today that have created powerful dynasties around the world. One such stallion, and arguably one of the most dominant sires of racehorses alive in our breed today, is the illustrious Monarch AH (*Wiking x *Sasanka). In a sport dominated by French breeding, the pure Polish sensation has continued to infiltrate and enhance racehorse breeding programs worldwide.
“ . . . news of Monarch coming to W’rsan immediately put a very young stud farm on the map.
The 29-year-old stallion now lives in Abu Dhabi at W’rsan Stables. “Monarch spends his days between his stable and his paddock,” said Deirdre Hyde, stud manager for W’rsan Stables. “All aspects of Monarch’s life are considered by His Highness Sheikh Sultan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, and the heritage style stallion barn built to house him is appropriately known as the Monarch Majlis! He leads a very relaxed life, although he has frequent visitors. He is a superstar in horse terms and many people wish to meet and be photographed with him. At 29 he is just starting to show his age although he is as flexible and active as ever, and of course he receives the special care his status deserves,” Born in 1987, the bay son of Racing Hall of Fame stallion *Wiking was bred by Oxy Arabians. His pedigree hinted at his incredible potential as a racehorse and sire from an early age. His dam *Sasanka was an imported daughter of winning racehorse Almifar 4/22(6-6-4). This incredible mare was the Polish Triple Crown winner and was also inducted into the Racing Hall of Fame. “*Sasanka produced five other stakes winners besides Monarch. He was foaled when *Sasanka was 19 years old; he was her last foal and only colt,” said Hyde. With parents of such golden accomplishments, he had an auspicious beginning. Unfortunately, Monarch AH was orphaned at three weeks of age, though he never let that slow him down. As a racehorse, he fulfilled the promise of his genetic prowess. He earned $213,646 on the track, with 19 wins and 3 places out of 23 races run. Monarch AH won 14 stakes races and three Darley Championships. “As a racehorse, he’s the most intelligent horse 86 b ARABIAN RACING YEARBOOK b WORLD