Grangewilliam Stud’s Zed dies from colic
Grangewilliam Stud announced on Sunday that the farm’s stalwart sire Zed (Zabeel) has died after suffering a bout of colic.
“Zed was a massive part of our family. He was loved by all staff at Grangewilliam, past and present,” Mark Corcoran wrote on the farm’s Facebook page.
“Zed has been such an easy horse and a real character on the farm. He has become a bit of a cult-hero and his story resonates with everyone; coming back from being sacked and sent away serving Clydesdales on the hills of Erewhon Station, to ending up at Grangewilliam Stud and siring World Champion Mare and Melbourne Cup heroine, Verry Elleegant.
“Zed is the epitome of the dream of racing, the underdog, unfashionable working-class horse who beat the world’s best despite the riches thrown at achieving that success. When we acquired Zed, we were in a tough spot without a stallion of any significance to draw in the mares, and Zed pulled us through that hole and kept the mares coming in the gate. He has literally paid our bills and put our children through school. Today we have a fantastic stallion line-up: The Bold One, Derryn and our exciting new boy, Hilal, thanks in no small part to the deeds of Zed.
“Zed has left us with many special memories. My family and local friends will all fondly remember sharing the excitement we had in our garden during Covid cheering Verry Elleegant home to win the Melbourne Cup. Zed garnered a loyal fan base throughout his career. The progeny of Zed have won just about every major cups and jumps race in New Zealand. He passed on his sire Zabeel’s toughness and staying prowess.
“Thanks to out vet, Jo Gibbs for her dedication and efforts in the care of Zed. I would like to thank all our loyal clients and Zed fans over the years for supporting Zed and making him what he became. A big thanks to Sam Williams, LA Stud and the Zed Syndicate for allowing us the privilege of standing Zed. He has given us a great deal of excitement and enjoyment following his progeny and we look forward to his continuing success on the racetracks in the years to come.”
Zed sired 17 stakes winners including three at Group 1 level, led by multiple Group 1 winner and Horse of the Year Verry Elleegant.