Lewis Michael, a grade II winner in 2007-08, will enter stud in 2009 at Robert N. Clay’s Three Chimneys Farm near Midway, Ky. A fee will be determined upon his retirement.
A 5-year-old son of Three Chimneys’ stallion Rahy, Lewis Michael set a track record of 1:21.17 in winning the Aug. 24 Pat O’Brien Handicap (gr. II) at seven furlongs at Del Mar. Those finishing behind him included grade I winner In Summation and last year’s champion sprinter Midnight Lute.
Lewis Michael also proved himself well beyond seven furlongs. He captured last year’s Washington Park Handicap (gr. II) at 1 3/16 miles by 4 3/4 lengths in 1:55.17 at Arlington Park in what is still track-record time.
“We are thrilled to have the opportunity to stand this outstanding son of Rahy, who continues to be one of our most prolific stallions,” Clay said. “Lewis Michael ensures that the Rahy influence will continue for years to come."
“Lewis Michael is the full package that the middle market needs,” said Three Chimneys president Case Clay. “Standing at over 16 hands, he is a big, solid horse that is exceptionally good-looking. His balance and scope combined with a tremendous pedigree and quick turn of foot will marry well with a wide variety of mares."
By winning the Pat O’Brien, Lewis Michael earned a berth into the Breeders’ Cup Sprint (gr. I) through the “Win and You’re In” program, though his connections have indicated that they also are considering the Breeders’ Cup Mile (gr. IT).
Lewis Michael sports a win on turf in the 2005 Grand Canyon Handicap at Churchill Downs.
A homebred for Frank Calabrese, Lewis Michael has won or placed in 15 of 22 races and earned $811,714 for trainer Wayne M. Catalano. Five of his stakes-placings have come in graded events.
Lewis Michael is a full brother to champion Dreaming of Anna. His dam, the stakes-winning Broad Brush mare Justenuffheart, is a half-sister to champion turf male Kitten’s Joy and grade I grass winner Precious Kitten.