Record-setting multiple graded stakes winner Crown of Thorns had the first mare checked in foal from his introductory book at stud. Crown of Thorns retired to CloverLeaf Farms II in Reddick, FL for 2012.

Whirlwind Charlott, a graded stakes-placed juvenile by Real Quiet, was pronounced in foal to Crown of Thorns on Wednesday. Two additional mares – Phanie Slam and Ruling Class – were also checked in foal on Thursday.

Crown of Thorns was an early Kentucky Derby favorite at three after a dominant, stakes-record performance in the Robert Lewis S. (G2), running 1 1/16 miles in 1:40.76 at Santa Anita. He was a Grade 1 performer at ages four, five and six from six furlongs to 1 1/8 miles, and was first or second in six graded stakes including a nose defeat when second in the Breeders' Cup Sprint (G1). In 2011, Crown of Thorns defeated Grade 1 winner Sidney's Candy in the Mervyn LeRoy H. (G2) before retiring at the end of the season. He earned $821,693.

Crown of Thorns is by fellow CloverLeaf sire Repent, and hails from the Thunder Gulch mare Crowning Touch, a half-sister to Eclipse Champion and Grade 1 sire Smoke Glacken. Crown of Thorns stands his first season at stud for a fee of $4,000 stands and nurses. Breeders who commit a mare to Crown of Thorns and fellow new CloverLeaf stallion Rodman will pay a discounted fee of $2,500 and receive 2012 seasons to both stallions.