Of course, he wouldn't slack off like the hare in the race against the tortoise. After all, he had other things to deal with as well, such as Strongholds and competitions. If he wasn't in the Instance Dungeon team, then it usually wouldn't operate.
Most other clubs still could keep it going, since their commanders only had the role of commanding.
While Sapphiron was alive, it was a loyal servant of Malygos the Blue Aspect.
During the battle of the Frozen Throne, Arthas met with a pitiful-looking Blue Dragon in Northrend. Sapphiron was only a normal adult Dragon when it was fighting for Malygos. However, upon being ambushed by Arthas and Anub'arak, Sapphiron was ultimately killed after being defeated. Then Arthas, using the power of the fallen, revived Sapphiron into a Frostwyrm. Sapphiron the Frostwyrm became a fang for the Scourge.
Sapphiron then became Kel'Thuzad's mount, stationed in the depths of Naxxramas.