Racing: Rip Van Winkle's sudden death big loss for stud

Rip Van Winkle sired star horse Te Akau Shark. Photo / Bradley Photos

A disastrous year for the New Zealand thoroughbred stallion ranks has become even worse with the sudden death of Rip Van Winkle.

And it couldn't have come at a worse time, as he sired two of the genuine superstars of New Zealand racing last season in Te Akau Shark and Jennifer Eccles.

Windsor Park Stud announced the loss of Rip Van Winkle yesterday following a short illness.

His loss comes on the heels of world champion racehorse Roaring Lion dying last year soon after arriving to stand at Cambridge Stud, who also tragically lost Tavistock and Burgundy, while Waikato Stud lost Sacred Falls just before his stock really kicked into gear.

Rip Van Winkle had just completed his most successful season with a stellar year on the racetrack that included Te Akau Shark winning Group 1 races here and in Sydney, and NZB Filly of The Year Jennifer Eccles.

"It's a devastating blow for us and the industry, losing a successful sire, especially one who has just enjoyed a great season on the racetrack," Windsor Park Stud's Rodney Schick said. "We can only look forward to the remaining crops he has to come and to the impact his daughters are sure to make at stud."

- additional reporting NZ Racing Desk