Tony Santic has confirmed Celtic Reign is in foal to Desert King.  The mare is a Woodman half-sister to Makybe Diva.

Makybe Diva (Desert King – Tugela by Riverman) was back in the news when her younger sister was foaled at Coolmore Stud in September.

“We have been thrilled with the support Tony has given Desert King,” Linden Park’s Julie Nairn said.  “Firstly to send Tugela back to him last year and now Celtic Reign – it’s recognition of Desert King’s great contribution to Makybe’s success.”

Nairn stands Desert King at Bombora Downs on the Mornington peninsula and reports the 18-year-old stallion is as sprightly as ever.  “He is thriving,” Nairn said.  “His fertility is as good as ever, his coat is gleaming and he is generally a very happy horse!”

Besides the Melbourne Cup legend, Desert King has sired G1 winning multi-millionaire Desert War among 26 stakes winners.  His overall record at stud stands at 579 winners of 1693 races at a 57% strike-rate.