Sire death clouds Sun

TRAINER Chris Waller wants his star colt The Autumn Sun to race on but has decided to spell the five-time Group 1 winner after his narrow victory in Saturday’s Rosehill Guineas.

Amid speculation the son of Redoute’s Choice could be retired and sent to replace his late sire at Arrowfield Stud in NSW, Waller endorsed a spring campaign for The Autumn Sun.

He is $7 second favourite behind Mystic Journey ($4.60) in Ladbrokes’ market for the Cox Plate in October.

Waller said after nine races in less than a year, it was in The Autumn Sun’s best interests to spell.

“This decision was formed on the basis he is still a young horse who is continuing to grow and develop,” he said.

“Providing The Autumn Sun returns for another preparation, and one which I am fully endorsing, I am extremely excited by what may be able to be achieved as a four-year-old.”

The death of Redoute’s Choice will ramp up pressure to retire The Autumn Sun to stud.

Arrowfield Stud said the 22year-old son of Danehill was put down yesterday at their NSW property after suffering a traumatic loss of mobility.

Redoute’s Choice sired 34 Group 1 winners, including The Autumn Sun, Miss Finland, Lankan Rupee, Snitzel and Stratum, and had a $300,000 service fee in his prime.