Don John horse

Don John was a highly successful British Thoroughbred racehorse and sire who made a significant impact on the breed during the 19th century. Born in 1833 (or 1834), he began racing in 1836 and quickly established himself as a top performer, winning eight races without defeat by 1838. His notable victories included the Great St Leger at Doncaster in 1837, where he set a record pace that impressed both fans and critics. He also triumphed in the Gold Cup and other major stakes.

In his final racing appearance in 1839, he was beaten by Grey Momus in the Port Stakes at Newmarket, after which he was retired to stud. Don John became a prominent sire, standing at several studs across Britain before being exported to Virginia in 1855. He sired many successful horses, including Lady Evelyn (Epsom Oaks winner) and Maid of Masham, who became a major broodmare herself. His most influential descendant was Iago, whose son Bonnie Scotland became a leading sire in North America.

Don John's significance extended beyond his racing and breeding success; he was inbred to key foundational Thoroughbreds like Sir Peter Teazle and Highflyer, contributing to the genetic diversity of the breed. He died in 1857, leaving behind a legacy that continues through his descendants, many of whom became prominent racehorses and broodmares.