The recent passing of His Highness The Aga Khan has left a significant void in the international racing industry. Over six decades, his horses bred at Irish and French studs have achieved tremendous success, winning over 160 Gr1 races, including five English Derby winners and 27 French Classic winners. The emphasis on top fillies has resulted in female families that have excelled, with notable descendants like Igugu, whose dam Zarinia is related to unbeaten champion Zarkava.
The Aga Khan’s breeding and racing program has focused on classics, but South Africa’s racing program, known for speed rather than stamina, has not fully capitalized on these bloodlines. Financial constraints limit breeders’ ability to access these prized bloodlines, with few exceptions like Maine Chance’s broodmare Dynasty’s Blossom, who descends from the influential sire Darshaan. The legacy of the Aga Khan’s breeding program can be seen in South Africa through notable mares like Alexandra Bi and Mystic Spring, who have produced multiple stakes winners.
The influence of the Aga Khan’s breeding program extends to stallions like Kalamoun and Blushing Groom, whose descendants have excelled in South Africa. Blushing Groom, who spent his stud career in the US, produced champion sire Jallad, whose daughters have continued his legacy through successful offspring. Stallions carrying Blushing Groom in their female lines, like Ideal World and Hawwaam, continue to make an impact in the racing industry. Overall, the Aga Khan’s breeding and racing program has left a lasting mark on the global racing industry.
