Sunday Silence

Halo - Wishing Well by Understanding

Sunday Silence was an exceptional American Thoroughbred racehorse who achieved great success on the track and later became a highly influential sire in Japan. Foaled in 1986, he was bred by Oak Cliff Thoroughbreds and trained by Charlie Whittingham for owner Arthur B. Hancock III and partners.

Sunday Silence’s racing career was marked by his intense rivalry with Easy Goer and his remarkable achievements in 1989. He won the Kentucky Derby and the Preakness Stakes, narrowly defeating Easy Goer in both races. Although he finished second to Easy Goer in the Belmont Stakes, losing his bid for the Triple Crown, Sunday Silence bounced back to win the Breeders’ Cup Classic later that year in a thrilling rematch with his rival. His performances earned him the Eclipse Award for Horse of the Year in 1989.

Sunday Silence’s racing record was impressive, with 9 wins from 14 starts and earnings of over $4.9 million. Known for his dark coat and determined running style, he often overcame adversity both on and off the track. After his racing career, Sunday Silence was sold to Japanese breeder Zenya Yoshida and stood at stud at Shadai Stallion Station in Japan. There, he became one of the most successful and influential sires in Japanese racing history, leading the sire list 13 times. His offspring dominated Japanese racing for years, and his influence continues to be felt in pedigrees worldwide.

Sunday Silence’s legacy is unique in that he achieved greatness both as a racehorse in America and as a breeding stallion in Japan, significantly impacting the global Thoroughbred industry.

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