Leading German sire dies after leg problem

Stallion statistics: Big Shuffle

Leading German sire Big Shuffle has died at the age of 25. The son of Super Concorde was leading sire in Germany this year, with his earners headed by Badener Sprint Cup first and second Walero and Le Big.

Karl-Dieter Ellerbracke, co-owner of Gestuet Auenquelle, told galopponline.de: "We had taken him to the veterinary unit of the University of Hanover because of a leg problem, but sadly he died. He was a champion sire in all divisions, even with jumps horses."

Bred by Moyglare Stud Farm, Big Shuffle won the Cork And Orrery Stakes and Tetrarch Stakes at three, and the Greenlands Stakes at four for trainer Dermot Weld.

His progeny include Group One winner Turfrose, and Group winners Abbadjinn, Agnetha, Auenklang, Gonfilia, Konig Turf, Peppercorn, Pepperstorm, Pomellato, Precious Boy and Smooth Operator.