Kentucky Derby winner Always Dreaming to stand at WinStar

Always Dreaming, the 2017 Kentucky Derby (G1) winner, will stand his first year at stud in 2019 at WinStar Farm near Versailles, Kentucky.

"We are excited to add a potentially breed-shaping stallion from the Unbridled line, which has proven to be today’s preeminent classic sire line," said WinStar's Elliott Walden.

Last seen on the track in May when fifth in the Alysheba (G2) at Churchill Downs, Always Dreaming retires with a mark of 11-4-2-2, $2,415,860.

In addition to his 2 3/4-length triumph in the Run for the Roses, Always Dreaming also captured the Florida Derby (G1) by five lengths. He also placed in the Gulfstream Park Mile (G2) earlier this year and in the Jim Dandy (G2) last season.

Campaigned by the partnership of Viola Racing Stables, St. Elias Stables, MEB Racing Stables, Brooklyn Boyz Stables, Siena Farm, and West Point Thoroughbreds, Always Dreaming was trained by Todd Pletcher. WinStar, SF Bloodstock, and China Horse Club have since joined the ownership group.

Bred in Kentucky by Santa Rosa Partners, Always Dreaming was a $350,000 Keeneland September purchase. From the first crop of Bodemeister, he was produced by Grade 3-winning Above Perfection, by In Excess, and is a half-brother to Grade 1 winner Hot Dixie Chick.

Always Dreaming will stand for a fee of $25,000.