Ontario Sired Claudius Augustus 5,1:53.3 ($305,889), by Angus Hall and out of the Speedy Claude mare Claudes Last Lady, succumbed to colic this past week.

Bred and raised by the late Dr. Gary Budahn and his wife, Debra, Claudius Augustus made his mark not only on the racetrack, but also in the breeding shed in California and Minnesota.

Whether racing from behind or on the front end, Claudius Augustus showed his grit and speed, and he appeared in the winner’s circle 28 times out of 74 lifetime starts.

Along with his laid back temperament, Claudius Augustus passed on his traits to his offspring, making him a favourite in California while standing stud with outstanding sires stakes champions My Little Susie 3,1:56.4f ($75,363), Cadet 4,1:56.4 ($38,796) and Sandys Song 4,1:57.4 ($68,956).

Keeping him in the family, Claudius Augustus was shipped to Nancy and Larry Jenson of Iowa to stand in the now-rising Minnesota Sires Stakes. Nancy is the sister to the late Dr. Gary Budahn.

Ironically, Cal Expo in Sacramento, Calif., is hosting the Gary Budahn series this week, with the final racing this Friday in memory of the veterinarian who not only had many outstanding horses racing in California, but was a top track vet for more than 35 years along with being a CHHA president for many years.

Please join Standardbred Canada in offering condolences to the connections of Claudius Augustus.

(California Harness Horsemen's Association)