Darby Dan Farm has announced 2011 Preakness Stakes winner Shackleford will stand at its Lexington farm next year.

Trainer Dale Romans is prepping Shackleford for the G1 Carter Handicap at Aqueduct on April 7.  He will retire to Darby Dan after completing this year’s assignments in the Breeders’ Cup.

“Shackleford possesses all the qualities needed to be a top stallion,” Darby Dan general manager Robert Hammond said.  “He’s an impressive physical specimen from a great female family and no other American classic has produced more champions and successful stallions in the modern era than the Preakness.”

Shackleford (Forestry) defeated Kentucky Derby winner Animal Kingdom in the Preakness.  “Shackleford is a special horse,” Romans said.  “It’s rare to find a horse with true sprinter speed that has the ability to carry it to a classic distance.  He’s tough as nails and a true pro.”

Shackleford races for owners-breeders Mike Lauffer and Bill Cubbedge.  He is from the stakes-placed Unbridled mare Oatsee.  The dam has also foaled Lady Joanne (G1 Saratoga Alabama Stakes) and Baghdaria (G3 Indiana Oaks).