Multiple graded stakes-winning sprinter Gaff has been retired from racing to begin a career at stud at Brent & Crystal Fernung's Journeyman Stud in Ocala, FL.
Campaigned by Heiligbrodt Racing Stable, Gaff displayed world-class speed and versatility during a racing career that saw him win four stakes - two graded - on dual surfaces, and he retires as the fastest son of the late influential sire Maria's Mon to go to stud.
After racing in Europe for much of his early career, Gaff moved to the barn of Steve Asmussen in the summer of his 3-year-old season and picked up the first win of a three-race win streak over multiple Grade 1 winner Premium Tap. He stopped the clock in 1:08 4/5 and 1:08 2/5 for six furlongs in his next two starts, with the latter coming in the form of a win in the Mr. Prospector S. (G3) at Gulfstream Park, where he defeated Grade 2 winners War Front & Friendly Island and earned a 111 Beyer Speed Figure.
Gaff also won a pair of stakes at Fair Grounds, as well as the Turf Sprint (G3) at Churchill Downs last year at five. Out of the Tunerup mare Ionlyhaveeyesforu, he retires with earnings of $569,513.
“Gaff was an extremely fast horse who is by a champion 2-year-old and descends from a great old Florida female family,” said Brent Fernung. “Bill Heiligbrodt is committed to supporting Gaff both with his own mares and in the sales ring. That gives this horse a big edge.”