This Saturday marks 40 years since Sadler’s Wells won the Coral-Eclipse at Sandown, adding another impressive achievement to his successful racing career. However, it is not just his accomplishments on the track that are still remembered today.
Owned by Robert Sangster, Sadler’s Wells was a prominent figure in racing during the 1970s and 80s. He was a son of Northern Dancer and had an impressive list of victories, including the Eclipse, Irish 2,000 Guineas, and Irish Champion Stakes.
But it was his career as a stallion that truly solidified his legacy. His offspring, such as Old Vic and Salsabil, went on to achieve great success in the racing world. Sadler’s Wells was crowned leading sire in Britain and Ireland a record 14 times and produced champions in a variety of distances, both on the flat and over jumps.
Today, his influence lives on through his progeny and their descendants. His son Galileo holds the record for the number of Derby winners, while grandsons and granddaughters like Falbrav, Nathaniel, and Enable continue to achieve success on the racetrack.
Robert Sangster passed away in 2004, but his name remains a significant part of the racing industry through the many family members who continue to be involved in the sport. His legacy is one of pride and accomplishment, with his influence still felt every day in the world of horse racing.