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| Staff Writer |
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Creator, the 2016 Gr.1 Belmont Stakes and Gr.1 Arkansas Derby hero, is embarking on a new chapter of his breeding career with a move to Saudi Arabia after eight years in Japan.
The son of Tapit, out of three-time Peruvian champion race mare Morena, was bred in Kentucky by Mt. Brilliant Broodmares. Initially purchased by WinStar Farm for US$440,000 at the 2014 Keeneland September Yearling Sale, the grey showed early promise.
Under the guidance of Hall of Fame trainer Steve Asmussen, Creator developed into a top-class performer. His Classic campaign saw him compete against an exceptional crop including Gun Runner, Arrogate, Nyquist, and Exaggerator. He notably claimed third in the Gr.2 Rebel Stakes before his Grade One victories.
Previous Belmont Stakes winners who went on to successful stud careers include A.P. Indy, Empire Maker, and Tonalist, all achieving notable success as stallions in North America.
The Japan Bloodhorse Breeders' Association confirmed Creator's departure via social media, with JBBA's Shigeki Yusa verifying the news on X. The 11YO had stood at JBBA's Shizunai Stallion Station on Hokkaidō since 2017.
Creator's stud record shows promise, with 77 winners from 119 starters across five crops. His leading progeny Riko Victor has earned US$392,482, achieving three wins and placing in the listed JBC Nisai Yushun in 2021. Overall progeny earnings stand at US$5,926,806.
The stallion retired from racing with three wins, four seconds, and a placing from 12 starts, accumulating US$1,610,320 in prize money.