VERSAILLES, Ky. -- The father of Triple Crown champion American Pharoah has died.
Pioneerof the Nile died unexpectedly Monday morning at WinStar Farm in Versailles.
The 13-year-old sire had bred a mare and started acting uncomfortable once he was back in his stall. He died while being taken to a clinic.
Pioneerof the Nile finished second in the 2009 Kentucky Derby to Mine that Bird. He sired American Pharoah and Breeders' Cup winner Classic Empire.
Pioneerof the Nile's stud fee reached over $100,000.
Photo: winstarfarm.com