The legendary, now-23-year-old stallion Western Ideal will be retired from active stud duty beginning with the 2019 breeding season.
"Western Ideal, just as his sire Western Hanover and his paternal grandsire No Nukes have left an indelible impression on the history of the breed" said syndicate manager Jim Simpson. "We at Hanover are extremely proud to have been associated with the breeding careers of all three of these great horses."
Through his enormously successful breeding career, Western Ideal's sons and daughters have earned $128,599,216 and counting.
Perhaps more importantly is his influence on the progression of the breed through his great sons Rocknroll Hanover, American Ideal, Always A Virgin and their exploits. Still to be heard from are his son Artspeak and his paternal grandson Always B Miki.
Hanover Shoe Farms Manager Dr Bridgette Jablonsky says that Western Ideal is still enjoying wonderful health.
"He has earned this well-deserved retirement and will spend the rest of his days here at Hanover Shoe Farms enjoying life."
Western Ideal's last crop of foals are now in utero and will be yearlings in 2020.
(Hanover Shoe Farms)