The Aga Khan Studs’ two French-based stallions Sinndar and Siyouni will be presented to the public during an open day on Saturday 28th January.

The former enjoyed a splendid season in 2011 thanks to his daughter Shareta, runner-up in the Gr.1 Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe and winner of the Gr.3 Prix Minerve. The proven sire was also represented by Group 2 winner Gertrude Bell. Dual Derby and Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe hero Sinndar is making a name as a broodmare sire, as paternal grandsire of Stakes winners Genius Beast (out of dual Group 1 winner Shawanda), Emiyna and Louvakhova in 2011.

The precocious Siyouni retired to stud for the 2011 season, after a racing career which saw the son of Pivotal victorious in the Gr.1 Prix Jean-Luc Lagardère as well as taking second in the Gr.1 Prix Jean Prat and third in the Gr.1 Prix du Moulin de Longchamp. Siyouni covered a full book of mares in his first season, with 91 mares in foal. His first foal was born at the Haras du Mezeray on Saturday 14th January, a daughter of the Gone West mare Fair West, a full sister to Group 2 placed Kalgoorlie.

This open day takes place as part of the annual “Route des Etalons” weekend in Normandy on 28th and 29th January, during which more than 20 of the region’s studs will welcome visitors. Haras de Bonneval is conveniently located at Le Mesnil Mauger in the heart of France’s leading breeding region and it is therefore possible to combine a visit with other Normandy farms. The gates of the Haras de Bonneval will be opened from 9.30am until 4.30pm and refreshments will be served throughout the day.