The Wilgerbosdrift-based Soft Falling Rain, named Equus Champion Two-Year-Old Colt for 2012-2013, has died.

The Highlands Stud-bred champion was just nine years old at the time of his passing and had been expected to cover a full book of mares in 2018.

Soft Falling Rain was never beaten in South Africa, where he made four starts, including in the 2012 Group 1 SA Nursery.

Exported to Dubai (he was later named Champion Miler in the UAE), Soft Falling Rain reeled off three consecutive wins, with his victories including an historic score in the Group 2 Godolphin Mile.

Soft Falling Rain became one of just a handful of horses to win in three different countries when he smashed some smart rivals to land the Group 2 Nayef Joel Stakes at Newmarket in the UK in 2013.

He ended his racing career having won eight of 13 races and earned over £740,000 in prize money.

Retired to Wilgerbosdrift in 2015, Soft Falling Rain proved instantly popular and was booked full throughout his all too brief stud career. – www.wilgerbosdrift.co.za