German Great Acatenango Dies at 23

Germany's outstanding sire Acatenango, a three-time German Horse of the Year, died April 2 at the age of 23 after an accident in his paddock.

Bred and raised by Gestüt Fährhof in 1982, the son of Surumu won the German Derby (Ger-I) in 1985, running up a sequence of 13 group-race victories and equaling a record held by Ardross and Brigadier Gerald. Highlights in his racing career were his triumphs in the Preis von Baden-Baden (Ger-I) as well as beating an international field in the Grand Prix de St. Cloud (Fr-I).

Acatenango went on to become Germany´s most successful sire. His son Lando and his daughter Borgia won the German Derby as well. Last year Acatenangos son Blue Canari triumphed in the French Derby, the Prix du Jockey Club (Fr-I).

Due to failing fertility Acatenango was retired from stud duties two years ago, but lived at his home stud. His last crop are yearlings in 2005.