Multiple Graded Stakes Winner Messier to Rockridge Stud

In a deal brokered by Matt Bowling of Bowling Bloodstock, multiple graded stakes winner and grade 1-placed Messier will take up stud duties at Rockridge Stud in Hudson, N.Y., in 2025. A son of Empire Maker, Messier was purchased at the 2020 Fasig-Tipton Selected Yearlings Showcase by Donato Lanni on behalf of SF Bloodstock, Madaket Stables, and Starlight Racing for $470,000. Initially trained by Bob Baffert, Messier broke his maiden second time out at 2 at Santa Anita Park before landing the 2021 Bob Hope Stakes (G3) at Del Mar by 3 1/2 lengths. At age 3 Messier scored by 15 lengths in the 2022 Robert B. Lewis Stakes (G3) with a 108 Equibase Speed Figure. He then secured his place in the Kentucky Derby (G1) with a second-place finish to Taiba in the Santa Anita Derby (G1). As a 5-year-old he was trained by Richard E. Dutrow Jr. and captured the May 3 Westchester Stakes (G3) at Aqueduct Racetrack over Breeders' Cup Dirt Mile (G1) runner-up Post Time. "Messier was an exceptionally athletic colt with a very high cruising speed," said SF's Tom Ryan. "He won graded stakes races at ages 2 and 3 and again at age 5. His performance in the Bob Lewis was outstanding, stopping the clock at 1:42.89 and winning by 15 lengths with a 103 Beyer. He is an exciting addition to the stallion ranks in New York." Messier will stand for $5,000 LFSN. A limited number of shares are available.