The debut book included high-class racemares Distinctive, Mango Diva, Newsletter, Queen Jo Jo, Romantic Time, Shang Shang Shang and Soon, as well as the dams of Group-winning two-year-olds Ajaya, Arctic Sound, Beacon, Beckford, Dramatised, Fighting Irish, New Providence, Rocchigiani and Simmering.

Breeders were no doubt enticed by the horse’s glittering racing career, which was highlighted by decisive victories in the Commonwealth Cup and July Cup, despite rearing at the start on both occasions.

They were also probably persuaded by his pedigree, as he is by Charm Spirit and out of Magic, a daughter of Galileo and top sprinter Danehurst.

Shaquille will stand at a fee of £15,000 at Dullingham Park next year.

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