Group 1 Winner Under The Louvre Set to Stand At Grandview Stud In Spring!

Written on the 9 June 2017

One time Group One winner with The Stradbroke Handicap in 2016, Under The Louvre hoped to go out in winning form when he took on his final Group One race at the Kingsford-Smith Cup a couple of weeks ago.

The 6yo sprinter however was sorely beaten, coming in 8th place in his final Group One race and has only achieved one placing in his final season before he heads to Queensland's Grandview Stud in spring.

This long term stayer leaves behind a great legacy though, with 9 wins from 36 starts and 14 placings over 5 seasons, totalling over $1.8m in prizemoney for his owners.

"Under The Louvre had incredible acceleration," trainer Robert Smerdon said.

"He mixed it with the best and in the Stradbroke he faced nine Group One winners including Black Heart Bart.

"He (Under The Louvre) could easily have been a multiple Group One winner... I thought he was a bit stiff in the Oakleigh Plate when he flew home in 33 flat... he only missed by a lip in the Rupert Clarke... and was beaten a neck by Black Heart Bart in the Goodwood.

"I inherited the horse as a three-year-old but he was originally picked out as a yearling by Tony Vasil who has such a great eye. Under The Louvre won his debut as a two year old by four lengths and then his Group One as a five year old... that just goes to show his longevity.

"Under The Louvre is a tremendous individual. He never 'bulked up' like a lot of entires and has a terrific nature. Great to deal with.

"If he can throw that explosive turn of foot, athleticism and temperament into his progeny, I believe he's a very good stallion prospect."

Under The Louvre who was sired by Excellent Art out of dam Barcelona Art will stand at Grandview Stud for $7,700 in his first season at the 230 acre property near Ipswich, alongside proven sire Jet Spur and promising sire Whittington. Excellent Art only stood a few seasons in Australia but he is the son of Pivotal who produced over 130 stakes winners.

Grandview's Michael Grieve is delighted to have this champion stayer on board.

"Under The Louvre is arguably the most exciting racehorse to enter stud in Queensland for many years," Grandview's Michael Grieve said.

"Not only did he win the Stradbroke, but he also raced against and beat the best in Melbourne too. He was very adaptable.

"Under The Louvre is a serious horse and is not only a coup for Queensland, but for all breeders. When his progeny are up for sale, buyers will well remember his performances in other states. Speed and ability has universal appeal."

(Photo: Under The Louvre winning the 2016 Stradbroke Handicap with Black Heart Bart on the inside)