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| Staff Writer |
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It's the start of a new year, and as usual, the general sires' list has reset. Stallions everywhere are excitedly anticipating the chance to lead North America in progeny earnings, just like Into Mischief did before. However, not all are aware of this list.
Even though it's still early in 2024, it's not too soon to see how the year is shaping up. Mineshaft has taken the lead on The List with the help of his son Senor Buscador's victory in the Gr.1 Saudi Cup, which earned $10 million. The sire's progeny earnings this year, except for the Saudi Cup share, would still place him in a decent 17th position, better than his usual ranking.
Mineshaft's current earnings of US$11,351,478 would have ranked him 11th in last year's final general sires' list. Meanwhile, Senor Buscador, who also earned US$573,000 with a runner-up finish in the Gr.1 Pegasus World Cup Invitational Stakes, is leading the way. However, with only 53 starters this year compared to Into Mischief's 214, Mineshaft may find it hard to maintain his position.
If Senor Buscador wins the Gr.1 Dubai World Cup on March 30, Mineshaft's seasonal progeny earnings could exceed US$18 million.
Curlin, who ranked second on last year's final general sires' list with US$18,690,613, would be surpassed before April - a significant accomplishment for Mineshaft.
Before this year, Mineshaft had only cracked the top 25 in 2016. The 2003 Horse of the Year, who stands this season for US$10,000, has been a consistent performer and ranks in the top 20 among active sires in the U.S. His top progeny include It's Tricky, True Timber, Fly Down, and Hoist the Gold.
Into Mischief, the leader for earnings in the past five years, currently ranks third. Quality Road, powered by classic winner National Treasure's Pegasus victory, ranks second. Always Dreaming ranks fourth, and Practical Joke rounds out the top five. This is a significant achievement for Always Dreaming, who won the Gr.1 Kentucky Derby and began his stud career in 2019.