In many ways it was the incredible success of Danzig (Pas de Nom, by Admiral’s Voyage) that put the seal on Northern Dancer’s reputation as a sire of sires. Although undefeated in three sprints at two and three, Danzig never contested a stakes race and got his opportunity at Claiborne Farm largely through the connection of his trainer, Woody Stephens, to the Hancock family, owner of Claiborne.
Danzig sired 1984 juvenile champion Chief’s Crown and ’85 Kentucky Derby and Belmont Stakes (G1) second Stephan’s Odyssey in his first crop, had ’86 Belmont winner Danzig Connection in his second crop, and never looked back. His three consecutive sire championships in 1991-93 constituted the longest run of dominance in the U.S. since Bold Ruler’s seven consecutive years of leadership in the 1960s.
Danzig also appears to be the best sire of sires among Northern Dancer’s sons. His son Danehill has led the Australian list five times and is highly respected in the Northern Hemisphere, as well. Danzig’s sons Belong to Me, Boundary, Chief’s Crown, Green Desert, Pine Bluff, Polish Precedent, and others have all proved they can sire top-class runners. Also making clear that Danzig’s branch is here to stay are his grandsons Grand Lodge, sire of Sinndar; Desert Sun, sire of Sunline; and Danehill’s son Flying Spur in Australia.
