Rachel Alexandra, 2009 Horse of the Year, gave birth Jan. 22 to a 125-pound colt by two-time Horse of the Year Curlin .
The bay colt was born at 2:40 p.m. EST on Stonestreet Farm near Lexington, Ky. He took his first steps 90 minutes later. Emblazoned with a white star, the alert colt bears a striking resemblance to his mother. Stonestreet Farm manager Gary Megibben reported that all was well with both mare and foal.
"Rachel is a natural mother, and took to the colt immediately," he said.
Owner Barbara Banke was told of the breaking news while preparing to cheer on her San Francisco 49ers in the NFC title game at Candlestick Park.
"I am thrilled with the good news of Rachel's safe delivery and health of the handsome colt that resembles her," Banke said in a statement released by Jackson Family Wines, which was founded by the late Jess Jackson. "For me and my children, this colt represents Jess’ dream – to raise and race the best. Co-owner Hal McCormick and I look forward to watching him develop and are excited to see him carry the Stonestreet silks as his Mom and Dad did before him.”
Curlin, also campaigned by Stonestreet, won Horse of the Year honors in 2007 and 2008. He won the 2007 Breeder's Cup Classic (gr. I) and 2008 Dubai World Cup (UAE-I). Curlin stands at Lane's End Farm
Rachel Alexandra became the first filly in 85 years to win the Preakness (gr. I) and the first filly to ever win the Woodward Stakes (gr. I).
Rachel Alexandra, by Medaglia d'Oro —Lotta Kim, by Roar, is to be bred to Bernardini in 2012.