Champion USA sprinter Artax has died due to complications from colic in Brazil.  The 17 year-old had been based at Haras Santa Tereza do Bom Retiro.

Artax (Marquetry – Raging Apalachee by Apalachee) was bred by Vinery and peaked in 1999 winning the G1 Breeders’ Cup Sprint, G1 Carter Hcp and G1 Vosburgh Stakes.

Retired following his championship season, he stood at Clermont Farm in New York and at Taylor Made Farm in Kentucky before transferring to Brazil.

Artax has sired six stakes winners including G1 winner Friendly Michelle and G2 winner Diabolical for progeny earnings of more than $14.70 million.