From Ballena Vista Farm
RAMONA, Calif. (May 2, 2014) — Leading California sire Tribal Rule died May 1 at Ballena Vista Farm as a result of a heart attack while covering a mare.
At the time of his death, the 18-year-old son of Storm Cat led California’s general sire list with 2014 progeny earnings of over $1.6 million.
“Itʼs a very sad day for the thoroughbred industry and more regionally here in California as Tribal Rule has ranked at the top of the sire lists year after year and he will continue to be a force in California for many years to come,” stated Ballena Vista Farm owner Donald Cohn. “My heart goes out to all that were around this magnificent horse. He was a popular sire and I wish to thank all the breeders whose continued support contributed to his success at stud. He will be buried here at Ballena Vista Farm.”
With eight crops to the races numbering 568 foals, Tribal Rule has sired 36 stakes winners and earners of $21,277,152 including graded winners Georgie Boy (G1), Ciao Bella Luna (G2), Ethnic Dance (G2), Alphie’s Bet (G3) and recent Las Cienegas-G3 winner Tribal Spy.
Racing for his breeders Pam and Marty Wygod, Tribal Rule showed flashes of brilliance winning two of four starts by a combined 14 lengths. Retired at age six to River Edge Farm, Tribal Rule was California’s Freshman sire of 2006 and went on to become a four-time leading sire of 2-year-olds by money won, an accomplishment equaled only by In Excess over a nine year-period.