Former WA stallion Cardinal Virtue has been sold to stand at Grenville Stud in Tasmania.

Cardinal Virtue (Elusive Quality) retired to Waterford Stud south of Pinjarra in 2011, however, his first book produced just 10 foals.

A $260,000 buy for Darley at the 2007 Inglis Easter yearling sale, he was originally trained by Lee Freedman and won by six lengths on debut at Morphettville in May 2008.  Crossing the border again in February 2009, the colt nailed Augusta Proud by a nose in the LR Redelva Stakes.

A syndicate headed by Australian Bloodstock’s Luke Murrell and Melbourne based Michael Sharkie bought him as a autumn four year-old to be prepared by David Payne.

Cardinal Virtue won at Randwick was stakes-placed for the new partnership in the G1 ATC The Galaxy, G2 ATC Premiere Stakes and G3 ATC Sebring Stakes.  “With a little more luck, I have no doubt that he would have won a Group 1 race,” Payne said.  “He was a very, very good sprinter.

“He’s a magnificent looking horse with a terrific temperament and he was a dream to work with.  I’m sure he will pass these traits on to his progeny.”

Cardinal Virtue returned to training after his initial stint at stud but was unplaced in four starts for Payne and Mornington trainer Dean Binaisse.

Cardinal Virtue will join Champion Tasmanian sire West Quest (Can) at Grenville Stud which is operated by Graeme McCulloch.  He will stand for a $3,300 (inc gst) service fee.