Thoroughbred Breeders Australia and Aushorse pay tribute to Fastnet Rock
Tuesday, 9 September 2025
Thoroughbred Breeders Australia (TBA) and Aushorse today mourn the passing of Fastnet Rock, a breed-shaping Australian icon and two-time Champion Australian Sire (2011/12, 2014/15).
A Group 1 winner of both the 2005 Lightning Stakes and 2005 Oakleigh Plate, Fastnet Rock (Danehill x Piccadilly Circus), was born and raised at Coolmore Australia, where he stood for 19 seasons and shuttled to Coolmore Ireland for 11 consecutive northern hemisphere seasons (2010–2021). He was retired from stud duties in 2024 and, only a fortnight ago, paraded at Coolmore’s open day, delighting a packed crowd. He was humanely euthanised yesterday at Coolmore’s Jerrys Plains farm at the age of 24.
Fastnet Rock’s impact now extends through his sons and, most keenly, through his daughters: he has been Australia’s Champion Broodmare Sire for the past two seasons, underscoring a legacy that will shape the Australasian and international breed for generations. Known on farm as one of the kindest and smartest horses, he famously stamped his stock with a wonderful temperament.
Among his finest daughters is Via Sistina who was recently crowned Australian Racehorse of the Year and is poised to build on her record this spring.
TBA Chairman Basil Nolan expressed his sincere condolences to Fastnet Rock’s connections on behalf of the Australian thoroughbred industry.
“Fastnet Rock wasn’t just a great stallion, he changed the breed,” Mr Nolan said.
“From sprinting brilliance on the track to sustained excellence at stud, his influence has been profound and enduring. The fact that he’s now a back-to-back Champion Broodmare Sire says everything about the legacy still to come.
“On behalf of breeders across the country, we extend our deepest condolences to Tom Magnier and everyone at Coolmore who cared for ‘Fastnet’ so lovingly for so long.”
Aushorse Chairman Antony Thompson shared his heartfelt commiserations.
“We’ve lost a true Australian great,” Mr Thompson said.
“Fastnet Rock combined class, toughness and the kindest temperament – qualities he passed on to so many of his progeny. Only weeks ago he was paraded and looked magnificent; today the industry feels his loss deeply.
“Our condolences go especially to our fellow Aushorse Board Member Tom Magnier, Coolmore Australia’s Principal, on the passing of a once-in-a-lifetime stallion.”
Media enquiries: Meagan McGrath | Meagan@TBAus.com | +61 405 302 426
