BOARDSMILL Stud in Trim, Co Meath, has added to its already impressive stallion roster by securing the multiple Group 1 winner Poet’s Word for covering duties in 2020.

One of the highest rated horses in the world last year when trained by Sir Michael Stoute, the grandson of Dubawi stood at the Nunnery Stud in England this year. At Boardsmill he will stand alongside Califet, Court Cave, Kalanisi and Mount Nelson.

John Flood of Boardsmill said: “It is rare to be able to acquire such a calibre of horse to the ‘dual-purpose’ ranks so early in their career. We have always had our eye on horses from the Dubawi line as they have great attitudes, plenty of toe and are ground versatile. He showed a great attitude in his races, trained on from year to year and was ground versatile.

“He is a beautiful looking horse and if he passes on his looks to his progeny, he will definitely be a welcome addition to us all.”

In last year’s King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes at Ascot, Poet’s Word defeated stable companion Crystal Ocean. That horse was runner-up again to Enable in the 2019 edition and is currently the world’s highest rated racehorse.

Poet’s Word also won the Group 1 Prince of Wales’s Stakes at Royal Ascot last year, defeating Cracksman. He earned a Timeform rating if 132 and was only out of the frame once in 17 races.

Flood added: “Poet’s Word is an exciting addition to the stallion ranks in Ireland. He is a very attractive dark bay horse, standing over 16.1hh with good bone and a great walk.”