At the remarkable age of 31, Flemensfirth, the esteemed dual champion National Hunt sire owned by Coolmore, has passed away.

During his racing career, Flemensfirth, bred by Mill Ridge Stud from the mare Etheldreda and sired by the dual Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe winner Alleged, donned the maroon silks of Sheikh Mohammed under the guidance of trainer John Gosden.

As a two-year-old, he triumphed on his debut at Nottingham, while at the age of three, he secured victory in the prestigious Group 1 Prix Lupin with Frankie Dettori in the saddle. Concluding that season with a win in the Prix Dollar, Flemensfirth repeated his success in the same race the following year. He went on to claim another impressive top-level victory in the Premio Roma.

Returning as a five-year-old, Flemensfirth’s sole appearance was in the Dubai World Cup, where he finished at the rear of the pack, trailing behind Singspiel.

Although Flemensfirth achieved dual top-level triumphs on the Flat, it was his extraordinary accomplishments as a National Hunt sire, stationed at The Beeches Stud, that earned him widespread recognition.

Among his exceptional progeny are Imperial Commander, the Cheltenham Gold Cup champion, Grade 1 winners such as Flemenstar, Tidal Bay, Lostintranslation, and Tornado Flyer, as well as remarkable mares like Colreevy, Relegate, Total Enjoyment, and the victorious Jennies Jewel at Royal Ascot. He also served as the damsire for Noble Yeats, the Grand National hero, and Grade 1 winners Identify Thief, Marie’s Rock, Roksana, Next Destination, and this year’s Jack de Bromhead Mares’ Novices’ Hurdle victor, You Wear It Well.

Flemensfirth claimed the titles of champion British and Irish National Hunt sire in 2017-18 and 2018-19, reaching his peak stud fee of €15,000 during his three-season tenure at County Waterford from 2018. In the summer of 2020, he retired from his duties as a stallion.

Robert McCarthy, from The Beeches Stud, expressed his sentiments on Friday, stating, “Flemensfirth was an exceptional stallion and a charismatic character who will be dearly missed by all of us. We extend our sincere gratitude to our dedicated staff, as well as our veterinarians and farriers, who provided excellent care throughout his time at The Beeches.”

McCarthy further acknowledged the breeders who supported Flemensfirth, contributing to his success as a champion sire, and expressed gratitude to the Magnier family for entrusting him to their care. Flemensfirth spent 22 fruitful seasons covering mares before enjoying a well-deserved retirement in excellent health until the very end. He roamed in his paddock until nine o’clock last night.”