Calumet Farm’s esteemed stallion Channel Cat, a multiple grade 1-winning millionaire, is set to begin a new chapter in Turkey as a freshman sire in 2027. This announcement follows the sale of Channel Cat to a syndicate led by Atahan Zilcioglu, confirmed by agent Murat Sancal and Calumet Farm itself. With a proven lineage and successful racing career, Channel Cat is expected to make a significant impact on Turkish breeding.
Outstanding Racing Record
Channel Cat, currently 11 years old, is a son of the acclaimed North American turf sire, English Channel. Bred by Calumet, he established himself as a formidable competitor by winning the prestigious 2021 Man o’ War Stakes (G1T) and placing in other top races such as the Sword Dancer Stakes (G1T) and the United Nations Stakes (G1T) in 2019. Under the expert training of Todd Pletcher, Channel Cat amassed a commendable record of six wins, four seconds, and five thirds from 32 starts, culminating in earnings of $1,481,022.
Growing Interest from Turkish Breeders
The interest in Channel Cat from Turkish breeders is evident, especially following the success of Voodoo Song, another progeny of English Channel, whose performance has spurred local breeders to seek out lineage from this esteemed sire line. According to Sancal, Channel Cat’s appeal is heightened by the popularity of Kitten’s Joy in Turkey, particularly through his son Sadler’s Joy, who has produced 14 winners from 22 runners. This interest peaks during high-stakes events like the Gazi Derby, known for having the largest purse among European Derbies.
Highlighting Successful Lineage
Channel Cat comes from a winning pedigree, with his dam being Carnival Kitten, a daughter of Kitten’s Joy. Carnival Kitten is a half-sister to the group 1-placed stakes winner Red Moloney and has divine connections across multiple successful racers, including grade 1 winner Lieutenant’s Lark and multiple graded stakes victor Dove Hunt. This lineage not only accentuates Channel Cat’s racing prowess but also his potential as a valuable sire in future breeding cycles.
Early Offspring Performance
As of now, Channel Cat has seen limited representation in the racing field but has already made his mark through his progeny. His first starter, Channelurambition, made a promising debut on June 25 at Horseshoe Indianapolis, where he finished second under the ownership and training of Joseph Davis. This early success showcases Channel Cat’s potential to contribute to the racing scene in Turkey and beyond.
Calumet Farm launched Channel Cat’s stud career in 2023, offering breeding services at $7,500. With transportation to Turkey planned for late summer, enthusiasm for his anticipated impact on the local racing landscape continues to grow. Channel Cat’s pedigree, racing accomplishments, and early performances by his offspring position him as a compelling addition to the Turkish breeding program.