Karapiro-based Novara Park has lost its foundation sire Jakkalberry (Ire).

The 12 year-old son of Storming Home succumbed to a gut infection.  “To say it was premature is an understatement; the signs couldn’t have been more encouraging for the horse,” stud manager Ray Knight said.  “He’s only had two to the races and they’ve both gone well.

“He was such a good racehorse and he was making every post a winner with good results in the sales ring.  It’s a big blow, he was a special horse.”

Jakkalberry won the 2010 G1 Gran Premio di Milano before transferring to Marco Botti in England.  He raced in six countries and among his major wins were the G2 Dubai City of Gold Stakes and American St Leger.  He was also Group 1 placed in Dubai Sheema Classic and Melbourne Cup.

He was one of five stakes winners out of the Barathea mare Claba Di San Jore, along with Italian Derby winners Awelmarduk and Crackerjack King.

JAKKALBERRY