International Thoroughbred

FEBRUARY 2010

www.internationalthoroughbred.net

FEBRUARY 2010

£ 4 . 9 5 • I S S U E 1 0

Contact: Coolmore Stud, Fethard, Co. Tipperary, Ireland. Tel: 353-52-6131298. Fax: 353-52-6131382. Christy Grassick, David O’Loughlin, Eddie Fitzpatrick, Tim Corballis, Maurice Moloney, Gerry Aherne or Mathieu Alex. Tom Gaffney, David Magnier, Joe Hernon or Cathal Murphy. Tel: 353-25-31966/31689. Kevin Buckley (UK Rep.) 44-7827-795156. E-mail: [email protected] Web site: www.coolmore.com All stallions nominated to EBF.

STALLIONS FOR 2010 • AD VALOREM • AUSSIE RULES • CHOISIR • DANEHILL DANCER • DUKE OF MARMALADE • DYLAN THOMAS • EXCELLENT ART • FOOTSTEPSINTHESAND • GALILEO • HIGH CHAPARRAL •• HOLY ROMAN EMPEROR • HURRICANE RUN • IVAN DENISOVICH • MASTERCRAFTSMAN • MONTJEU • ORATORIO • PEINTRE CELEBRE • POWERSCOURT • ROCK OF GIBRALTAR • STRATEGIC PRINCE • YEATS •

First Foals 2008 (First Two-Year-Olds 2010)...… Hurricane Run, from Montjeu’s first crop, won four Group 1s atthree and four... He went to stud for �30,000 in 2007, but is downto �17,500 for next year. A lot of judges really rated them at theyearling sales. Holy Roman Emperor, the best two-year-old of 2006at Ballydoyle when he won the G1 Phoenix Stakes... He was a realspeedball... He started out at �40,000, so at 56 percent less(�17,500), if you believe Holy Roman Emperor is most likely tosucceed among 2010 European freshman sires, now’s the time toroll the dice.…Winner of the G1 Poule d’Essai des Poulains and the GI ShadwellMile at Keeneland as a three-year-old in 2006, Aussie Rules isanother there was good chat about from the conformation judges.He retired at �15,000, but will stand for 60 percent less (�6,000)in 2010… Ad Valorem, by Danzig himself, and winner of the G1Middle Park S. at two and the G1 Queen Anne S. at Royal Ascot atfour. His stud fee is down by two-thirds to �5,000 for 2010.

First Foals 2009 (First Yearlings 2010)...… Both of Coolmore’s top prospects from this sire class also standfor half of what they entered stud for in 2008. Dylan Thomas,winner of six Group 1 races including the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe,Irish Derby, and Irish Champion S. twice, is down to �25,000 for2010, from his original 2008 price of �50,000. I thought he was a

Call Coolmore today...

...for the best value sires in the business.

colt with the immense virtues of soundness and durability, as wellas class. Coolmore also stands Excellent Art, a Pivotal colt theybought after his two-year-old campaign, who won the G1 St.James’s Palace S. for them. He is now �12,500 from �25,000.

First Foals 2010 (Retired 2009)...When Dylan Thomas retired, he passed the baton tostablemate Duke of Marmalade, from Danehill’s last crop. Placedin a Goodwood seven-furlong Group 2 at two, and second, third orfourth in six Group 1s from eight to 101/2 furlongs in six starts atthree, Duke of Marmalade won five Group 1s from 10 to 12 furlongsat four. He retired to Coolmore in 2009 for �40,000, and hasdropped to �30,000 for 2010.

Retiring 2010 (First Foals 2011)...… Mastercraftsman, who won the Irish 2000 Guineas and St.James’s Palace S., and ran second to Sea The Stars in theJuddmonte International, retires to Coolmore for �20,000...A dual Group 1 winner at two, including Ireland’s mostimportant two-year-old race, the seven-furlong G1 National S., hehas plenty to recommend him. Coolmore also retires four-time G1Ascot Gold Cup winner Yeats, who will stand for �10,000. He didhave the speed and class to win Ireland’s two major Derby preps,the G3 Ballysax S. and the 10-furlong G2 Derrinstown Derby Trialas a three-year-old, after which he was favourite for the G1 EpsomDerby. But soreness in a hip caused him to miss that race and therest of his three-year-old season. He came back at four to win theG1 Coronation Cup at 12 furlongs, then at five stepped up in trip tobecome a Gold Cup horse. So it’s not like he was a plodder--farfrom it.

TDN 30TH DEC. 2009

23434_OppenheimQuote_IntTBred_Pg_Feb10:23434_OppenheimQuote_IntTBred_Pg_Feb10 12/01/2010 09:13

On top of the WorldBut should Sea The Stars have had a higher rating than 136?

Why spend a fortune?There are affordable sires out there

The miracle of MeydanDubai Racing Club's CEO Frank Gabriel is looking forward to the World Cup

Southern hemisphere salesIt's full steam ahead to Karaka

B A H A M I A NB O U N T YBorn 1994 Chesnut 16.0 H.H.

by Cadeaux Genereux - Clarentiantia

2010 Fee: £10,000 1st Oct

• NOW FULL FOR 2010

C O C K N E YR E B E LBorn 2004 Bay 16.1 H.H.

by Val Royal - Factice

2010 Fee: £4,500 1st Oct (NFFR)

• A dual classic winning miler

producing precocious and

athletic foals

PA S T O R A LP U R S U I T SBorn 2001 Bay 16.0 H.H.

by Bahamian Bounty - Star

2010 Fee: £5,000 1st Oct

• 2009 foals realised up to

33,000gns – more than 7

times his fee

P H O E N I XR E A C HBorn 2000 Bay 16

1/2 H.H.

by Alhaarth - Carroll’s Canyon

2010 Fee: £2,500 1st Oct (NFFR)

• Defeated 52 Group winners

and earned £1,975,483

M Y B OYC H A R L I EBorn 2005 Bay 16.1 H.H.

by Danetime - Dulceata

2010 Fee: £5,500 1st Oct

• A Champion & a Group 1

winning 2yo

athletic foals

M Y B OY

NEW FOR

2010

Contact: Brian O’Rourke Mob: 07789 508157Tel: +44 (0)1638 675 929 Email: [email protected]: www.nationalstud.co.ukNational Stud Ltd., Newmarket, Suffolk CB8 0XE

Group 1 StallionsBAHAMIAN BOUNTY

COCKNEY REBELMYBOYCHARLIE

PASTORAL PURSUITS PHOENIX REACH

*all Parading at

Tattersalls stallion

parade on 04-02-10

R E M I N D E R :

M Y B OY C H A R L I E

C O C K N E Y R E B E L

P H O E N I X R E A C H

The Timeform ‘Racehorses’ annual and its Irish Supplement, which together run to 1,500 pages and half a million words, provide an individual commentary on every runner—good, bad or indi� erent—that ran on the Flat in Britain and Ireland in 2009. The commentary provides a summary of the horse’s form and its racing character, as well as its all-important Timeform rating. ‘Racehorses’ contains extended essays on the leading performers and is liberally illustrated with nearly 400 photographs of the best races and top horses. An extensive ‘Top Horses Abroad’ section provides Timeform ratings for the leading horses in all the major racing countries, ful� lling the function of ‘Racehorses’ by providing the de� nitive account of the racing year.

‘THE BIBLE OF THE TURF’

CHAPTER AND VERSE ON 14,000 HORSES THAT RANON THE FLAT IN BRITAIN AND IRELAND IN 2009PUBLISHED IN TIME FOR THE START OFTHE TURF SEASON AT £75(post free in uk)

CALL OR ORDER ONLINE

01422 330540 (24 hrs) www.timeform.com/shop

RACEHORSES OF 2009AND IRISH SUPPLEMENT

0110 RCH09.indd 1 14/1/10 10:03:12

M Y B OY C H A R L I E

{ Myboycharlie, son of Danetime and Group 1 winner at 2 years old

*Remember to call

national stud to

arrange viewing of

Myboycharlie.

*Parading at


parade on 04-02-10

R E M I N D E R :

Danetime

Dulceata

Danehill

Allegheny River

Rousillon

Snowtop

Danzig

Razyana

Lear Fan

Allesheny

Riverman

Belle Dorine

� atching

Icing

{{

{{{{

MYBOYCHARLIE

M Y B OY C H A R L I EM Y B OY C H A R L I EM Y B OY C H A R L I E

{{ Myboycharlie, son of Danetime and Group 1 winner and Group 1 winner and Group 1 winner{ and Group 1 winner{{ and Group 1 winner{ Myboycharlie, son of and Group 1 winner

Myboycharlie, son of at 2 yearsat 2 yearsat 2 old

*Remember to call

Remember to call

national stud to

arrange viewing of

arrange viewing of

MyboycharlieMyboycharlieMyboycharlie.

myboycharlie

*Parading at Parading at


parade on 04-02-10

R E M I N D E R :

• Group 1 winner at 2 years old

• Only son of Danetime standing

in the UK

• Group winning mares already

booked for his first UK season

another new stallion, another juvenile record broken

record-breaker

6 Foreword Underproduction is not good for the

bloodstock or racing industries

9 The first word Paul Haigh believes Sea The Stars was

rated just right by the handicappers

10 News The Breeze-Up Bonus resurfaces, Japan and South America open up their borders, Ted Voute is blown out at Keeneland, while William Huntingdon enjoys the Magic of Oz

17 Breeze-Up diary How Page 3 Girl has got on in the snow,

while Con answers Bonus questions

18 Stud diary Our Irish correspondent is getting to grips with stallion marketing, while fighting off the non-racing winter blues

20 View from Timeform The boys from Halifax put their weight behind the assessment given for Arkle

24 It was all about Kauto Despite the weather-interrupted programme, there was some great racing action over Christmas

30 Rose flowers on the Gold Coast Amy Bennett sees Military Rose win the Magic Millions

34 Inbreeding to Northern Dancer: a successful racing strategy? Yes, and no. In Part 2, statistician David Dink gives us the answers

38 Stars on top of the world Who were the winners and losers in the

World Rankings? Alan Porter casts his eye over this year’s table

50 No need to spend a fortune In this current economic climate, it

may pay to invest a little less in your nominations, writes Martin Stevens

58 Working the world Amy Bennett meets New Zealand-

based bloodstock consultant, Ric Wylie

62 It’s the best complex in the world Says bloodstock agent Dean

Hawthorne of Karaka

63 It can become frantic Paul Vettise meets leading New

Zealand-based vendor Jo Wilding

64 First-season sires in NZ Gus Wrigley takes a look at the new

yearling sires in New Zealand

68 The miracle of Meydan Sally Duckett chats to Dubai Racing

Club’s CEO Frank Gabriel

74 Crystal gazing Edward Gillespie explains the new

pan-European cross-country series

80 A record-breaking cat John Berry profiles Wildcat Heir

84 Not one million dollar lot Darryl Sherer reviews the Magic Millions

90 Equine nutrition Clarissa Brown-Douglas discusess feeding the broodmare

95 Legal notes

96 Market appraisal Christy Kilgour on UK property

98 Mare of the month: Libertina

8024

contents february

FEBRUARY 2010

www.internationalthoroughbred.net

FEBRUARY 2010

Contact: Coolmore Stud, Fethard, Co. Tipperary, Ireland. Tel: 353-52-6131298. Fax: 353-52-6131382. Christy Grassick, David O’Loughlin, Eddie Fitzpatrick, Tim Corballis, Maurice Moloney, Gerry Aherne or Mathieu Alex.

Tom Gaffney, David Magnier, Joe Hernon or Cathal Murphy. Tel: 353-25-31966/31689. Kevin Buckley (UK Rep.) 44-7827-795156. E-mail: [email protected] Web site: www.coolmore.com All stallions nominated to EBF.

STALLIONS FOR 2010

First Foals 2008 (First Two-Year-Olds 2010)...

… Hurricane Run, from Montjeu’s first crop, won four Group 1s at

three and four... He went to stud for 30,000 in 2007, but is down

to 17,500 for next year. A lot of judges really rated them at the

yearling sales. Holy Roman Emperor, the best two-year-old of 2006

at Ballydoyle when he won the G1 Phoenix Stakes... He was a real

speedball... He started out at 40,000, so at 56 percent less

( 17,500), if you believe Holy Roman Emperor is most likely to

succeed among 2010 European freshman sires, now’s the time to

roll the dice.…Winner of the G1 Poule d’Essai des Poulains and the GI Shadwell

Mile at Keeneland as a three-year-old in 2006, Aussie Rules is

another there was good chat about from the conformation judges.

He retired at 15,000, but will stand for 60 percent less ( 6,000)

in 2010… Ad Valorem, by Danzig himself, and winner of the G1

Middle Park S. at two and the G1 Queen Anne S. at Royal Ascot at

four. His stud fee is down by two-thirds to 5,000 for 2010.

First Foals 2009 (First Yearlings 2010)...… Both of Coolmore’s top prospects from this sire class also stand

for half of what they entered stud for in 2008. Dylan Thomas,

winner of six Group 1 races including the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe,

Irish Derby, and Irish Champion S. twice, is down to 25,000 for

2010, from his original 2008 price of 50,000. I thought he was a

Call Coolmore today...

...for the best value sires in the business.

colt with the immense virtues of soundness and durability, as well

as class. Coolmore also stands Excellent Art, a Pivotal colt they

bought after his two-year-old campaign, who won the G1 St.

James’s Palace S. for them. He is now 12,500 from 25,000.

First Foals 2010 (Retired 2009)...When Dylan Thomas retired, he passed the baton to

stablemate Duke of Marmalade, from Danehill’s last crop. Placed

in a Goodwood seven-furlong Group 2 at two, and second, third or

fourth in six Group 1s from eight to 101/2 furlongs in six starts at

three, Duke of Marmalade won five Group 1s from 10 to 12 furlongs

at four. He retired to Coolmore in 2009 for 40,000, and has

dropped to 30,000 for 2010. Retiring 2010 (First Foals 2011)...… Mastercraftsman, who won the Irish 2000 Guineas and St.

James’s Palace S., and ran second to Sea The Stars in the

Juddmonte International, retires to Coolmore for 20,000...

A dual Group 1 winner at two, including Ireland’s most

important two-year-old race, the seven-furlong G1 National S., he

has plenty to recommend him. Coolmore also retires four-time G1

Ascot Gold Cup winner Yeats, who will stand for 10,000. He did

have the speed and class to win Ireland’s two major Derby preps,

the G3 Ballysax S. and the 10-furlong G2 Derrinstown Derby Trial

as a three-year-old, after which he was favourite for the G1 Epsom

Derby. But soreness in a hip caused him to miss that race and the

rest of his three-year-old season. He came back at four to win the

G1 Coronation Cup at 12 furlongs, then at five stepped up in trip to

become a Gold Cup horse. So it’s not like he was a plodder--far

from it.

TDN 30TH DEC. 2009

23434_OppenheimQuote_IntTBred_Pg_Feb10:23434_OppenheimQuote_IntTBred_Pg_Feb10 12/01/2010 09:13 Page 1

On top of the WorldBut should Sea The Stars have had a higher rating than 136?Why spend a fortune?There are a�ordable sires out there!The miracle of MeydanDubai Racing Club's CEO Frank Gabriel is looking forward to the World CupSouthern hemisphere salesIt's full steam ahead to Karaka

the coverNewmarket in the snow by Trevor Jones

www.internationalthoroughbred.net4

8474

68

This publication may not be reproduced or transmitted in whole or part without the permission of the publishers. The views expressed in International Thoroughbred are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publishers. While every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine, the publishers cannot be held responsible for the accuracy of the information herein, or any consequences arising from them.

38

contents february

Thoroughbred Publishing,Blandys Farm, Upper Basildon,Reading, Berks RG8 8PH Tel: 01491 671958Tel: 01428 [email protected]

Subscriptions [email protected] www.internationalthoroughbred.net

Thoroughbred Publishing,Blandys Farm, Upper Basildon,

Reading, Berks RG8 8PH Tel: 01491 671958Tel: 01428 724063

[email protected]

Subscriptions [email protected] www.internationalthoroughbred.net

the teamEditor: Sally Duckett

Publisher: Declan Rickatson

Photographer: Trevor Jones

Design: Thoroughbred Publishing

Advertising: Declan RickatsonTel: 0044 (0)7767 310 [email protected]

the photographsThoroughbred Photographyracingfotos

the print & distributionclere, newbury

the wordsSally Duckett Paul Haigh Amy Bennett Timeform Ted Voute Darryl Sherer Martin Stevens Alan Porter

William HuntingdonDavid Dink Clarissa Brown-Douglas Andrew ChalkPaul VettiseGus Wrigley

www.internationalthoroughbred.net 5

the foreword

From overproduction to a threat of under production all, it seems, in the twinkling of an eye. the bloodstock industry is worried, and well it might be.

the twinkling that shifted production from too much to too little has actually taken place over a period of six years when the bloodstock market – crucially the bloodstock market and not the racing industry – could not sustain the numbers of horses being put forward for sale each season. many called for breeders to restrain from putting “borderline” mares in foal, stallion masters to limit books and for some sort of decorum to be brought to the business of breeding horses.

in the end, despite continued calls for people to restrain from breeding horses the only influence which brought about a curtailment was money – or rather a lack of it as the economic crisis has caused many, through necessity, to re-evaluate their bloodstock and their financial situations.

So those wishing for a drop in numbers have got their wish, but not necessarily from the quarters they hoped for as an economic recession touches everyone, not necessarily the “lesser” breeder.

A period of underproduction for the bloodstock industry is as damaging as overproduction. it is the equivalent to deflation and brings about all same effects: closing of businesses, a reduction of inputs, less need for ancillary businesses (veterinary, farrier, etc), a lower requirement for staff as well as a reduction of money circulating within the industry and a lack of new money coming into it. As well as a threat of being unable to support its own racing industry.

it has to be hoped that when prices rise again breeders will be encouraged once more, and we just have to hope that in the interim there is enough stock for agents to source in our own country, not elsewhere.

unfortunately it was not totally realised that the overproduction of horses was only in excess of the market demand and instead of aiming to limit supply, we should have been pressing harder to increase that demand.

Greater effort should have been made to encourage people into the concept of racehorse ownership and, in particular, to buy

those horses hovering in the lower brackets. many animals at these levels some say should not have even been bred, but purchases of this type of horse – there will be winners in there, particuarly if the racing industry caters for them – would have given new faces a reasonably easy and achievable entry into racehorse ownership.

And if better racecourse opportunities were available for this category of horse, those no longer able to spend the money they were once able to would have had a safety net for continued involvement, rather than be lost to the sport altogether.

obvious further changes should have included stronger levels of prize-money, more support for the itm and BBA effort to bring in foreign purchasers, as well as better sponsorship and incentives such as the bonus schemes that now exist, but which may have arrived too late. in fact, it is stunning that the “authorities” has not put something toward the second renewal of the breeze-up scheme after its perceived success in 2009.

maybe then the yearling market would have been a little more dispersed rather than so reliant on the few very rich. And maybe then the lines of 2008’s and 2009’s not sold yearlings, many of which failed to even catch a bid, could have been a little shorter.

more efforts should have been made to bring the market back to one again instead of letting it develop into a two-tier structure: interest, sold and sold well; no interest, not sold and made a loss. For too long everyone just looked at the first tier and did not

appreciate or want to know about those below.As well as improving demand, efforts

should have been made to encourage breeders to limit their costs i.e their nomination spend, so that the return from the market place was not expected or needed to be so large. Breeders should have been encouraged to return to thinking of spending only double the mare’s “actual” value on a nomination instead of the hugely unrealistic sums many laid out to “upgrade” their mares. Again this relies on a racing industry able to provide the lesser-sired types competitive opportunities – many reasonably effective stallions are deemed uncommercial only because there are no racing outlets for their stock. create appropriate races, create prize-money and then stallions are brought into the mix.

And if anyone argues that giving support to the lower-end breeder is catering for mediocrity, then they have not understood that this industry is made up of players at all levels, and that the more individuals we have in this industry, investing and buying bloodstock, then the better it is all round. if a breeder makes some money then he is far more likely to be able to fund the purchase of better mares; he can leave the first rung of the ladder to another. if he has lost it all, then he is gone, along with his future investment in staff, nominations and mares.

not everyone is good at the job and certainly not all mares deserve a place at stud, but encouragment should be given to all so that those who might fly, can do so.

An economic recession does not just remove those whom it is thought should not be breeding horses, “good” and successful producers are hit just as much the “lesser” breeders. A smaller yearling or nH market place caused by economic change will also not necessarily mean that we will have a higher concentration of quality potential performers – there will in fact just be less of them. of course we should be pressing to improve the broodmare band, but it needs people to make money for that to happen.

perhaps now, so that we can catch a rising tide, more positive, market-inducing plans can be developed instead of a continuation of the negative stance that has pervaded thinking to date.


Recession affects at all levels The fall in the number of mares bred is not necessarily a good thing

“An economic recession does not just remove those whom it is thought should not be breeding horses, “good” and successful producers are hit just as much the “lesser” breeders ”

Michael Hernon859-293-2676www.gainesway.comPower. Passion. Performance.

2009 Saratoga Yearlings averaged $256,875

Twenty-two GSWs incl. dual Classic

Winner FINSCEAL BEO

In-Foal Mares with 7 sold averaged $475,000 U.S.

Mr. Greeley’s 2009 Dual G2

Winning KENSEI

Stakes-winning daughter MISS CATALYST topped opening session of 2010

KEE JAN at $325,000

FOURTEEN MR. GREELEY yearlings sold for $200,000 and over in 2009 (lifetime average $139,058)Hip Sale Buyer Price59 FTSAUG Sagamore Farm $510,000 122 KEESEP Robert Baker & William Mack $375,0001080 KEESEP Shadwell Estate Company $375,00066 FTSAUG Centennial Farms $350,000616 TATOCT Sir Robert Ogden $351,653731 KEESEP Shadwell Estate Company $330,000121 FTSAUG Marc Keller $300,000112 TATOCT John Warren Bloodstock $251,11821 FTSAUG IEAH $250,000143 FTSAUG Padua Stables $240,000323 GOFORB David Redvers $233,152231 KEESEP Mark Stanley $225,000485 KEESEP Spendthrift Farm $200,000123 FTSAUG Andrew Balding $200,000

P H O E N I XR E A C H P H O E N I XR E A C H

born 2000 bay 16 1/2 H.H.

by Alhaarth - carroll’s canyon

2010 fee: £2,500 (NFFR)

P H O E N I XP H O E N I XP H O E N I XP H O E N I XP H O E N I XP H O E N I XP H O E N I XP H O E N I XP H O E N I XP H O E N I X

R A C E C A R E E RWinner of 5 races and placed 3 times at 2 to 5

years, £1,976,865.

AT 3Won Canadian International, Woodbine, Gr.1

Won Gordon Stks, Goodwood, Gr.3

Won Stan James Maiden Stakes, Newbury.

AT 4Won Hong Kong Vase, Sha Tin, Gr.1

AT 5Top rated older horse in U.A.E (11-13f)

Won Sheema Classic, Nad Al Sheba, Gr.1

Phoenix Reaach winning

the Sheema Classic

Contact: Brian O’Rourke Mob: 07789 508157Tel: +44 (0)1638 675 929 Email: [email protected]: www.nationalstud.co.ukNational Stud Ltd., Newmarket, Suffolk CB8 0XE

Group 1 StallionsBAHAMIAN BOUNTY

COCKNEY REBELMYBOYCHARLIE

PASTORAL PURSUITS PHOENIX REACH

phoenixphoenixphoenixphoenix

1)

2)

3)

phoenixphoenixphoenixphoenixphoenixphoenixF I R S T

RU N N E R S

2010

P H O E N I XP H O E N I XP H O E N I X

*Parading at


parade on 04-02-10

R E M I N D E R :

the first word


The handicappers got it spot onPaul Haigh argues that the World Rankings judged Sea The Stars correctly

SeA tHe StArS was the best horse to have raced anywhere in the world in 2009.

For most people this would be a statement of the obvious to rank right up there with “very flat

norfolk”; “the White Star Line is no longer selling tickets for the titanic” and “the moon is not made of cream cheese”.

But not for everyone. the great horse does have his detractors: those who would point to the facts that he had a tendency to beat the same group of opponents for most of the season; that those who represented his form did very little to uphold it as the year drew to its close (vision d’etat being an honourable exception), and that he never raced outside what they think of as his comfort zone of Britain, ireland and France.

then there was the question of his climactic triumph in the Arc. there were certainly very good horses behind him, including King George and dual Breeders’ cup winner, conduit. But what about the perennial runner-up, Youmzain? Surely he drags down the form a bit? on a line through Youmzain, that habitual top level surprise, Sea the Stars was no better than his immediate predecessor Zarkava (although she was very good indeed) and not much better that dylan thomas who, by the exalted standards of Arc winners, was only a decent one at best.

And yet the international handicappers, clearly as dazzled as the rest of us by the swagger of his Longchamp victory, rated Sea the Stars the Stars the equal of the brilliant peintre celebre, and there will be plenty of fans convinced that even that was a conservative estimate of his ability: that he should be ranked with the greatest of all time rather than the greatest of modern times.

So we see the difficulties involved in producing a definitive international handicap, even when it’s produced by clever men in conclave, all of them racing fanatics, all good mathematicians, all concentrating firmly on producing a list that does no horse any subjective favours, no horse any injustice. But how do they cope with some of

the information whose influence can only be guessed out, for example the fact that some horses, like italian football teams according to the old joke, tend to be less effective the further they are from home cooking?

How do they deal with horses, like Sea the Stars who always save a little bit for themselves, doing enough to beat everything else but not bothering to do so in sensational style unless sensational style is what’s required? How do they resist the temptation not to rate a few pounds higher a horse who delivers the goods every time, rather than the one who shows brilliance now and then even though that brilliant best is enough to put him on a par with the consistent one?

Are they tempted to give a bit extra for an away victory? And do their colleagues always rein them in if they succumb to temptation?

in rating Sea the Stars 6lb more than anything else they have probably succeeded in offending nearly everyone. Which when you think about it means they have probably done a pretty good job. they have not let themselves get carried away with his feat of completing what may turn out to be the new european triple crown of the Guineas, the derby and the Arc, extraordinary though that feat is and was. they have not made the mistake of assessing the champion on what they thought he might have been capable of producing if he’d ever had to

exert himself completely. By approaching his performances scientifically rather than emotionally they’ve managed to bypass the publicity and judge him on what they saw.

it’s always the battle for the world’s outright top-rated that attracts the attention. in this respect the iFHA ratings are very much like the eclipse Awards. does anyone spend much time for example wrangling over the relative merits of Scenic Blast and Sacred Kingdom, joint top-rated sprinters on 127. no, of course they don’t. they’re quite content to accept that if either had an off day the other would beat him, and then pass on to the subject that provokes the passion.

there was only ever going to one competitor for the world’s top spot, and that was the unbeaten Zenyatta, a fact that makes it all the more disappointing that Sea the Stars’s connections couldn’t be persuaded by the thought of one more moment in the limelight and the chance to put the california girl in the shade on her very own synthetic. But Zenyatta’s emphatic victory in the Breeders’ cup classic was achieved at the expense of Gio ponti, an excellent turf performer but hardly one with any pretensions to all time greatness (not too far behind him in his Arlington million victory had been the not-very-mighty-at-all Stotsfold, a spear carrier at best on the Group 1 scene, whose stage directions at the top level might read ‘exit pursued by a bear’, and twice over, who’d been beaten by new Approach over the same trip a year before.

rip van Winkle was there as See the Stars’s proxy of course, but he seemed to go to sleep as soon as the gates opened, and in the circumstances the handicappers did absolutely right to ignore him.

no, this time the handicappers got their answer absolutely right. there was only one champion and his right to that title couldn’t be disputed. not even by one of America’s greatest-ever mares. Whether his reputation will endure like those of some of the old heroes with whom he’s already been compared remains to be seen. there’s just a suspicion though he may have needed a four-year-old campaign for that.

“In rating Sea The Stars 6lb more than anything else they have probably succeeded in offending nearly everyone. Which when you think about it means they have probably done a pretty good job ”

the news

Breeze-up bonus schemein place for a second year


The breeze-up

bonus is to take place

for a second year. A

commendable scheme, but

perhaps racing’s

authorities should have got involved too, instead

of relying once again on

the vendors themselves?

HorSerAcinG oFten becomes a family affair with sons and daughters following fathers and mothers into the jockey or training ranks. But one family involved closely with the sport of point-to-pointing really has come to extreme dominance.

the cheshire-based Greenalls has brothers following brothers following their father peter Greenall, aka Lord daresbury, who won the amateur title three times, into the amateur riding ranks.

Last season the now 25-year-old and eldest thomas, a former amateur champion, won the Fox Hunters’ chase at Aintree (a race also won by his father) as well as the mens’ point-to-point title. He equalled the record for the number of point-to-point winners ridden in one season matching the 56 winners ridden by his younger brother, 23-year-old oliver, in 2008 when he also won the same title.

instead of the point-to-point title, oliver concentrated last season on riding on the racecourse proper. He won 30 races taking the amateur title in 2009 instead.

toby, 21, rode 12 winners from 40 rides in 2009 and finished second in the novice riders’ table, but it appears that the youngest, the 18-year-old Jake, who rode four winners from 22 rides in his first season in 2009, is the one who will be given a clear run at things.

in a recent interview in the Racing Post Weekender thomas reported that he is planning to ride less (he had 136 pointing rides in 2009) in order to give Jake a clear crack of the whip.

exasperated bookies taking bets on the outcome of the mens’ title have given up: pointing bookmaker mike Smith is just going 2’s any Greenall brother!

It could be any one of the four

THe BritiSH And iriSH Breeze-up Bonus Scheme, which was established for a first year last spring,

is to commence once again in association with 2010’s breeze-up sales.

it is envisiaged that a bonus fund of £500,000 will be established through vendor contributions of £500 per horse – as in 2009 - however, in a change to the first scheme, those horses which win eligible races will take home £5,000 on top of prize-money earnings rather than £10,000 as last year.

the reduction in money was felt by the organising committee, which is made up of a number of prominent breeze-up vendors, that it would give more owners chances of winning the bonuses

– approximately 100 compared to 52 last season.

Horses still have a chance to take home an extra £10,000 as instead of only being able to win one bonus as per last year, this season horses can win two bonuses if they win two eligible races.

race bonuses will be awarded on a first-come, first-served basis until the cash fund runs dry – last year the last bonus was won on September 2.

the breeze-up bonus led to the bigger yearling bonus incentive in which vendors could nominate their sales yearlings so qualifying them for £10,000 bonuses attached to specifically nominated two-year-old races to be held this year, as well as for a number of three-year-old races in 2011.

there is the added attraction

that the majority of two-year-olds, which will be nominated for the breeze-up bonus, will also already be qualified for the yearling bonus scheme. this means that owners have the chance of winning another £10,000 on top of any breeze-up bonus awards.

in a further change, vendors have to nominate their entire draft to the scheme.

the Racing Post is to sponsor the scheme for a first year having sponsored the yearling bonus last autumn.

Breeze-Up Sales DatesGoffs at Kempton March 6DBS Sale April 7-8Tattersalls Craven Sale April 14-16Tattersalls Guineas Sale April 30-May 1Arqana Two-Year-Old May 9Goffs at Dundalk May 12Goresbridge May 25

An estimated £500,000 pot to be split into 100 bonuses

the news


Stallion NewsBig Shuffle dies tHe Gestüt Auenquelle-based stallion Big Shuffle, the sire of the Group 1 premio Lydia tesio winner turfrose and the Group 2 winner Auenklang, has died.

the son of the uS stallion Super concorde was last season’s leading sire in Germany, a title he claimed on four other occasions. He stood in Germany for the whole of his career.

Bred by moyglare Stud Farm, Big Shuffle won the cork And orrery Stakes and tetrarch Stakes at three, and the Greenlands Stakes at four for trainer dermot Weld.

Kap Rock to stand at Haras de la HetraieKAp rocK, a video rock half-brother to the promising sire Kapgarde, will stand alongside his older brother at Haras de la Hetraie in normandy. A fee of €1,200 has been set.

Kap rock finished in the frame in eight of 12 starts over hurdles with his finest moment coming when successful in a three-year-old hurdle at Auteuil.

His Garde royale half-brother, Kapgarde, has made a fine start to his stud career in France. Last season he was represented by the Auteuil Grade 3 winners Futio and royale Francois, while his runners on this side of the channel include david pipe’s young hurdler mr thriller.

Dansili half-brother heads to New ZealandrAiSe the Flag, a son of Hasili and a half-brother to leading uK sire dansili, has been retired to stand at White robe Lodge Stud, new Zealand, in partnership with owner-breeder Juddmonte Farms.

raise the Flag, who is by Sadler’s Wells, ran once for trainer André Fabre when sixth in a Longchamp maiden as a three-year-old in 2008. He will stand his first season for nZ$4,000 (£1,838/€2,044).

White Robe Lodge’s Brian Anderton wrote on the farm’s website: “raise the Flag suffered an unfortunate injury at his only start at Longchamp in the care of André Fabre, but he was held in high regard and we know the genetics are all there to be passed on.”

on the arrival of raise the Flag to new Zealand shores teddy Grimthorpe, racing manager for Juddmonte, said: “Juddmonte is delighted that Brian Anderton’s White robe Lodge Stud have agreed to stand raise the Flag, a son of the world’s greatest living broodmare Hasili.

“the reputation of White robe Lodge Stud in not only making top class stallions, but also raising top-class racehorses, was a major factor in the decision to send raise the Flag to new Zealand.”

Dunkirk retires to Ashfordthe unbridled’s Song colt dunkirk, runner-up in the 2009 Belmont Stakes (G1) and Florida derby (G1) has been retired to stud and will stand the 2010 season at Ashford Stud in Kentucky, for $10,000.

A $3.7-million top-priced 2007 Keeneland September Sale yearling, dunkirk won his first two starts for trainer doug pletcher.

He is out of Secret Status, a dual Grade 1-winning A.p. indy mare, who won the Grade 1 Kentucky oaks and G1 mother Goose Stakes.

He failed to recover sufficiently to return to training after picking up an injury in the Belmont Stakes.

dArLeY has bought 360 acres in Aiken, South carolina with the intention of building a training facility.

“Aiken has a history of developing young horses into racehorses,” said darley uSA president Jimmy Bell to the thoroughbredtimes.com. “our search was about the health and welfare of the horse. there were a number of factors involved with our selection of Aiken – the history, the location, and the weather. the horses get a little bit of everything.”

the property is about six miles from the Aiken training track, which was bought by darley as part of its purchase of Stonerside Stables in 2008 and where it has around 65 horses in training. darley will send its yearlings to be broken and its young horses to be trained at the new facility, added Bell.

Darley to set up new pre-training facility in the US

Trade Fair sold to Australiatrade Fair, a son of Zafonic who has stood for the past four years at tweenhills Farm in the uK, has been sold to ted van Heemst’s Lynward park Stud in Western Australia. He will remain in Australia, where he has been shuttling for the southern hemisphere season.

the deal was handled by david redvers Bloodstock and John chalmers Bloodstock.

David Redvers of Tweenhills said: “Trade Fair has made a bright start in Western Australia, but although he has had plenty of winners here and has the hugely promising david elsworth-trained runner Fair trade to look forward to, he failed to produce a stakes winner with his first two-year-old crop and that was going to make promoting him very difficult this season.

“At the end of the day, we were made an excellent offer and it was in his shareholders’ best interests to accept.”

tweenhills has an agreement to lease back the stallion next year if it wishes to.

the dual Group 3 winner sired six winners from his first crop of runners.

Foals start arriving for Papal Bullthis season’s new foals have started arriving and first-crop sire papal Bull has got off the mark early.

the coolagown Stud stallion has already had three new foals, two colts and a filly. one colt is from the family of Holy roman emperor, while the other is out of Fernlawn Hope, a danehill dancer half-sister to Group 3 winner Sir diamond.

the filly is out of Humble Fifteen, a black-type placed winner from the family of Balanchine, Stage call, romanov and Saoirse Abu.

david Stack of coolagown Stud reports that the foals are “very strong and correct with good bone”.

papal Bull covered 155 mares in his first season at stud.

Ghostzapper fee reducedthe 2004 Horse of the Year and champion older male Ghostzapper has had his 2010 fee reduced to $30,000 from the previously announced $50,000. He originally stood at $200,000 in 2006.

His fee was reduced to $150,000 in 2007 and 2008. in 2009, he stood at $125,000.

He sired eight winners from his first crop of two-year-olds last season and one minor stakes race winner, Golden Ghost.

the 10-year-old stallion stands at Frank Stronach’s Adena Springs near paris, Kentucky. “it’s a readjustment because of the market,” said Adena Springs representative Jack Brothers.

International races increaseJapan and South America open up for foreign competition


the news

After granting Sheikh Mohammed an owners’ licence, the JRA are opening up Japanese racing further

tHe sixth renewal of the Stud and Stable Staff Awards, established in 2005 to recognise the achievements of key racing staff, features a number of changes.

This year, for the first time, anyone is able to nominate a member of staff whether they are an owner, breeder, trainer or even a work colleague.

The six award categories are: David Nicholson Newcomer, High Achiever, Rider/Groom, Stud Staff, Dedication to Racing, NASS Special Merit

each category winner will receive £5,000, while the two runners-up will also each receive £2,000, aside from the new nASS category where £5,000 is pledged to just the winner.

category winners, apart from the winner of the newcomer Award, then go forward for the overall Stud and Stable Staff employee of the Year Award, boasting a grand prize of £25,000 to be split between winner and yard.

Queries should be directed to Kelly Barnes on 020 7152 0164 or email [email protected].

nomination forms and entry criteria can be downloaded from www.britishhorseracing.com/stablestaff and www.racingpost.co.uk or by text or phone request.

nominations close on February 5, and the awards ceremony will be held on monday, march 1 at the Jumeirah carlton Hotel, London.

Want to nominate staff for an award? You can now!

Pocket Power breaks yet more records in South Africa

in A process of continuing change both Japan and South America have opened up further domestic races to international competition.

in 2004, only 24 Japanese races were open to foreign horses, but, from this year, all Japanese racing Association-staged races will be open to foreign runners. there will be a total of 162 races, including 122 graded races.

the richest races include the $3,527,000 tokyo Yushun (Japanese derby) on may 30, the $5,872,000 Japan cup (G1) on november 28, the Japan cup dirt (G1) worth $3,058,000 on

december 5 and the $4,220,000 Arima Kinen, which is to be held on Boxing day.

Japan first began to open up opportunities for foreign horses in 2005, with the aim of gaining part 1 nation status from the international cataloguing Standards committee, which would allow Japanese races to carry Group and black-type status around the world.

Last year, Sheikh mohammed became the first non-Japanese resident to hold a permit to race horses in the country.

two international races will be added to the 2010 South American championship, the

Gran premio internacional Asociacion Latinoamericana de Jockey clubes e Hipodromos, meaning that three international races, worth $450,000 in prize-money, will be held on the one-day event.

the Latinoamericano, as it has been known since its inception in 1981, will be staged for the third time on the turf course in Santiago, chile, on march 7.

South America’s invitational Group 1 race for three-year-olds and older at 1m2f will have a prize-money fund of $300,000, while the new races to be added to the meeting will be run over 8f and 6f.

pocKet poWer broke South American records once again when winning the Queen’s plate (G1) for a fourth year in succession. He became the first horse to win the race three times in 2009 and followed up last year’s victory with his record third straight win in the J&B met (G1), a race he may have won again by the time this is published. He won this year’s Queen’s plate in a record time.

“it’s very tough to get him to do this. You can see he’s a little older and not doing it as easy,” winning

trainer mike Bass told www.sahracing.com. “it’s a bit tougher for him, but he really is as game as they come. When he puts it in, it takes a heck of a horse to beat him.”

pocket power has now won 18 races from 34 starts, including nine Group 1 races.

Pocket Power is from the first crop of Jet master, who stands at Klipdrif Stud in the Western cape. He won the Queen’s plate himself on two occasions.


the news

’

Still getting blown out at Keeneland

THE FIRST northern hemisphere sale of 2010 is the Keeneland January Sale, and it looked devoid of any

serious quality but had the odd interesting lot, enough to make you pay attention.

Once again, we were trying to buy from the few mares with European appeal, but although the sale was 40 per cent down on average, each time we waited for one we were quickly blown out.

It seems the quality, good-looking horses with a decent page are weathering the storm.

Over the last month or so, I have been busy booking stallion nominations and have found that, if a stallion is in vogue, then he is still hard to get into – many popular

stallions where fully booked by January 2010.

The bad weather at the beginning of the year caused us obvious difficulties with the water freezing and the extra work involved working with the snow, but it cost us money too!

Having taken required CEM swabs and bloods, we needed to get them to an approved laboratory. Unfortunately, the post office ceased guaranteeing overnight delivery to Newmarket due to the snow and political issues, we had to resort to using couriers at a vast expense to ensure the swabs arrived within the required time frame.

The only good thing about the cold snap, if the old wives’ tail is true, is that hopefully many bacteria will not have survived, while it will also have

helped to break the life-cycle of strangles, tapeworm and ringworm.

February is the start of the yearling recruitment season; Tattersalls, Goffs and Doncaster send out their nomination forms and Arqana closes its entries for their August sale.

Breeders are beginning to see just how their foals are developing into yearlings and can start to decide as to which might be the best sale for them.

Even Fasig-Tipton’s Saratoga Sale can be considered now for those yearlings whose sire’s progeny have performed well in the US.

Personally, I can’t wait to see the Raven Pass’s foals this year with a view to selling them in Saratoga next year, while stock by Pivotal might also work well on the other side of the Atlantic.

Many farms take survey x-rays this month in order to pick up any blemishes in their yearling’s skeleton, which then have time for treatment.

This in itself posses more questions than answers and causes extra expense that needs to be balanced against potential sales’ income.

Last year many yearlings were purchased without x-rays, but to gain buyer confidence, you still need to know if your yearling is clean – I was often asked as to whether my yearlings had been given any veterinary treatment.

I think it is a must to carry out this due diligence via x-rays for the Arqana August Sale, the Goffs Orby and Tattersalls Book 1. The sale average at those sales is representative of a small flat in Newmarket!

No doubts......for leading sales consignor Ted Voute, who voices his opinion on all thingsbloodstock and sales-related

Adena Springs claims leading US breeders’ award for seventh year in a rowFor tHe seventh year in succession, Frank Stronach’s Adena Springs stables was the leading breeder in the uS on prize-money earnings.

despite continuing personal business problems through magna entertainments, Stronach’s Adena Springs-bred horses once again dominated the breeding scene in the uS – the farm’s horses won 568 races from 606 starters and earned the stud $12,856,254 in prize-money.

Leading performers amongst the Adena Springs progeny were the Graded stakes winners Bay to Bay, Fatal Bullet and my princess Jess.

despite it being the lowest earning year for Stronach’s farm since 2005, when its horses won just over $11 million in earnings, Adena Springs still won over $5 million

more than the second-placed eugene melynk. However, melynk’s horses earned nearly a million more than they did in 2008 when fourth in the table, despite producing less winners through 2009.

Stonerside Stables, which finished second

in 2008 with over $8 million earnings, dropped to seventh place with $4 million, while Juddmonte’s good year was reflected with its third placing.

Darley finished in eleventh place with earnings down by $500,000.

,

Leading US breeders: 2009 Breeders Starters Starts Wins EarningsAdena Springs 606 3908 568 $12,856,254Eugene Melnyk 219 1589 291 $7,513,696Juddmonte Farms Inc 72 310 46 $7,055,634Jones Brereton C. 309 1915 295 $7,025,758W. S. Farish 197 1173 184 $5,198,485WinStar Farm, LLC 131 830 124 $4,888,763Stonerside Stable 128 792 127 $4,825,395Martin J Wygod 125 867 155 $4,603,613Edward P. Evans 106 554 99 $4,356,533Pam Wygod 111 777 138 $4,328,166


the news

T HE 2010 SALES YEAR kicked off on the Gold Coast in early January and it was a big contrast to the wintery end of the northern hemisphere auction season as the Magic Millions is held a mile from Surfer’s Paradise in 86f heat and energy-sapping humidity.

The Gold Coast is Australia’s sixth largest city, twinned with Fort Lauderdale and, more surprisingly, Ulaanbaatar. It has 35 miles of beaches, nine times as many canals as Venice, and 40 golf courses. It has a massive concentration of fast-food outlets and a firm called Crikey Cleaners that specialises in cockroach clearance.

Chicken sexers and farriers have just been omitted from the local yellow pages. It has a 24-hour casino and the National Rodeo finals were held during sale week (the bulls won). The following week it was due to host the three-day National Tattoo convention.

It seems that Doncaster, Deauville and Newmarket have a lot to live up to! Due to Queensland’s refusal to have daylight saving, it gets dark by 7.30pm and light at 4.30am and horses and humans need to be exercised by around 5.00am in order to avoid the heat.

The sales company has it’s built-in public relations promotion duo in John Singleton (advertising and radio) and Gerry Harvey (Harvey Norman) who specialise in extravagant, and often conflictory, off-the-cuff statements, which get widespread press. Harvey’s Baramul Stud offered 70 yearlings and, as so often, Singo’s rather more quality-orientated draft of nine included the top lot, the Redoute’s Choice colt from Fanfreluche’s family.

The sale is staged uniquely early – if it were held in Europe a comparable sale would take place in the first week of June! The restricted races accompanying the sale take place on a racecourse equivalent of Chester with similar drawbacks from a bad draw.

The main event, the Magic Millions 2YO Classic, has a prize-money

of A$2 million, and it was won in clear-cut fashion by Military Rose, a General Nediym filly from the family of Zeditave and Jet Spur.

Purists may make snide comments about the sale, but it has produced seven Golden Slipper winners in the last decade, as well as last year’s Melbourne Cup winner Shocking.

The sale’s queen is undoubtedly Gai Waterhouse. Her retinue is spread across two tables of ten with her trademark hats as a centrepiece. She is

An alternative sale venueBloodstock agent William Huntingdontakes a look at the varied world of racing and bloodstock

mAGic miLLionS’ owners Gerry Harvey, John Singleton, rob Ferguson and Katie page-Harvey have launched a campaign to make Queensland the home of the “World’s richest Horserace.”

magic millions director Gerry

Magic Millions looking to stage the world’s richest race in QueenslandHarvey said: “The Magic Millions January carnival contributes $51.9 million to Queensland.

“our aim has always been to be able to justifiably call Magic millions a world-class event.

“We want Queensland to be home to the ultimate – the World’s richest Horserace.

“to make this a reality we are here to put our money where our mouth is. We are prepared

to commit $5m in prize-money for the 2011 magic millions 2Yo classic, if the Queensland Government will match our contribution dollar for dollar.”

John Singleton added: “currently the richest horse race is the dubai World cup with its prize-money increasing to $10m in 2010.

“victoria’s melbourne cup will offer $6m in prize-money

in 2010 – making it the world’s richest handicap.

“if the 2Yo classic was the world’s richest race, Australia would have the ultimate ‘daily double’ in international horseracing.

“imagine what it will mean to Queensland and the Gold coast if it was home to the races that stop the horseracing world in 2011?”

Sales queen Gai Waterhouse


the news

Hunting aroundalways ready for the cameras and has taken over from her daughter Kate as the David Jones Racewear ambassador.

Waterhouse had seen 530 yearlings on farms before the sale started and, wearing several buying hats, was responsible for the purchase of at least 28 yearlings. She probably had as many different outfits for the 10 days she was on the Gold Coast. Her court contained Amanda and Sophia Brudenell, Kate Grimwade and Hugo Palmer.

OTHER PROMINENT overseas buyers included the South African trainer Charles Laird and the Hong Kong Jockey Club. The former has had a lot of success with Australian-breds, while the latter has slightly restricted itself by a self-imposed embargo for the

Inglis Easter Sales after the New South Wales licensing of Chris Munce, despite him still being banned in Hong Kong.

After a sticky start, the main sale showed only a tiny decline in average and the fifth session actually posted an 11 per cent increase and a top price of A$200,000 for a filly by a modest son of Redoute’s Choice. Perhaps Patinack Farm, first-time vendors at the sale, may have regretted withdrawing the seven lots they had entered on the Sunday.

A half-sister to Military Rose failed to sell on the first day for $90,000 before the race – she was resubmitted on Saturday evening and made $150,000.

Darley bought a Redoute’s Choice, while Dermot Farrington, Hubie de Burgh, Adrian Nicoll, Amanda Brudenell, Demi O’Byrne and Badgers Bloodstock were all active and glad to escape Europe’s Arctic-like winter.

This year’s yearling crop suffered from the Equine Influenza outbreak and resultant quarantine restrictions. Significant Queensland breeders Highgrove, Canning Downs and Rosari Farm all had to move quickly to get their mares to the Hunter Valley, managing to do it with just hours to spare before the border was closed.

Many other farms had to completely reorganise breeding plans and some stallions such as Zeditave and Gonski certainly benefitted.

The leading sire was Redoute’s Choice, followed by Encosta de Lago. Both sires were standing at very expensive stud fees and few breeders to Redoute’s will have shown any profit on their production costs.

However, Charge Forward, Commands, Fastnet Rock, Jet Spur, Lonhro, More Than Ready, Snitzel, Starcraft and Testa Rossa all held up very well.

Starcraft stood his first season in Europe and had three winners, but has always looked more likely to produce three-year-olds. He should be a good outcross for Danzig-line mares, which are very well represented

Down Under – in fact, Danehill-line stallions account for nearly 20 per cent of the Australian sires’ book.

The Australian sales season has only just begun. There are four state sales which take place in Western Australia – Tasmania, Victoria and South Australia – before the Inglis Easter Sale in Sydney, which traditionally has the best catalogue.

Every state has it’s own breeders’ bonus scheme and prize-money has held up very well. Australia has suffered probably far less from

the global recession and the Aussie habitual self-confidence seems hardly to

have been dented. The prize for the most enterprising

participant must go to the young busker who set up his case at the entrance to the sales

ground and quickly had it filled with notes and coins. It is not clear whether Gerry and

Singo claimed a percentage: hopefully they will recognise his entrepreneurial spirit and sign him

up next year!

Busking was one way to make money at the Magic Millions Sale

BrAZiLiAn ridinG LeGend Jorge ricardo, who became the all-time winning-most jockey in February 2007, has returned to race riding after successfully completing chemotherapy treatment for cancer.

Away from competition since July, the South American jockey, involved for many years in a ding-dong battle for the world record in career victories, received clearance from his doctors on november 13 and has been riding work two horses per day since november 19.

“i am excited about resuming my riding career and i intend to try to regain the world record that already belonged to me,” said ricardo during a press conference at La Gavea racecourse in rio de Janeiro.

Ricardo, the first jockey in the world to reach 10,000 wins, now ranks second in career victories to his great north American rival russell Baze.

Before his enforced temporary retirement, ricardo had ridden 10,570 winners. Baze, 50, rode his 10,749 career winner last month at Golden Gate Fields.

Ricardo back riding after cancer treatment

Breeze-Up Diary stage 4: dealing with the weather

We HAve HAd some horrific weather in ireland since January’s issue. the snow and freezing conditions were widespread – our gallops were frozen for over two weeks and could not be used at all.

the temperature got right down to -12°c some nights, which is unheard of for ireland We had no water in the stables for two weeks and we had to bring in water with buckets from a nearby well. despite it all, page 3 Girl has thrived and was ridden everyday in the lunge ring. Fortunately, we bought a treadmill a year ago so we were able to trot and canter her and kept her ticking over nicely.

She is getting stronger all the time. She has a lovely movement and her temperament is to die for. We are lucky that she is a very healthy and sound filly – she has never been seen by our vet eddie Hogg (yet, touch wood!), except for er routine vaccinations.

By the middle of January, the weather improved, got much milder and we were at last able to canter her out on the all-weather gallop. She goes out with six other fillies in a lot and she is developing her muscles and strengthening her legs every day. She is now up slow cantering up to a mile each day, which is really helping to develop good topline of muscle on her back.

time is though slipping by and we are already getting close to the march 12 deadline – the Kempton Breeze-up Sale.

needless, to say she has been entered for the racing post Breeze-up Bonus Scheme. We have sent the qualifying payment of £500 to Weatherbys so now she is qualified for the racing post Yearling Bonus and the racing post Breeze-up Bonus and has the potential to win up to £20,000 in bonuses before prize-money. Hopefully, it should be a good selling point to attract potential buyers.

i am looking forward to the sale as we have a very good selection entered. the pressure is on now though to have everything right and we are working full steam ahead. All our yearlings are now in from the paddocks and are readying for the various sales, including the Arqana’s may sale in France.

they are all riding and cantering nicely, so exciting times ahead. it is fantastic to see the improvement physically and mentally in each horse as they progress towards the sales. i enjoy getting up every morning to see them, organise their feeds and check them out.

i find i that i still get very attached to them all, i suppose after all we have brought them on from immature yearlings to good strong ready-to-race two-year -olds. Con Marnane

In part four of our breeze-up diary, we find that “Page 3 Girl” was house-bound for a couple of weeks while Ireland, and the Bansha House gallops, were frozen solid. But with a breeze-up date looming on the horizon, she was not allowed a holiday...

Above, Christy Kinane rides Page 3 Girl on the all-weather once the frost relents, and below and right is busy with Con keeping her exercised on the treadmill

the news


Breeze-Up Diary stage 4: dealing with the weather


the news

Why have you decided to reduce the prize fund from £10,000 to £5,000?if the 2010 Breeze-up Bonus Scheme reaches its target of £500,000, then it will mean that 100 bonuses of £5,000 will be available for winning horses on a first-come, first-served basis.

this means that more horses and owners can benefit from the scheme. It is also an advantage for the later sales and later developing horses as the bonuses will extend further into the season.

Do you think that £5,000 is enough incentive for one race win for buyers? Yes we do as most of the horses will be sold this year with a racing post Yearling Bonus as well as the racing post Breeze-up Bonus so there is a chance that a horse can win £15,000 if the race won is also a yearling bonus qualifier.

that horse will also win the prize-money on the day. if the horse goes on to win a second race as a two-year-old it can win another £5,000 under the new conditions of the 2010 Breeze-up Bonus Scheme – provided, of course, that the fund is still available at the time of the horse’s second win.

A horse now has the potential to win up to £20,000 in bonuses before prize-money.

Why have vendors got to nominate their whole drafts?this is a self-help scheme in which the industry is pulling together in these difficult times. We need people to qualify their entire draft to establish the fund to be paid out to winning owners.

there is great credit due to all the vendors who contribute £500 per horse, all the sales companies which contribute £150 per horse, and of course our sponsors.

the scheme was a major success last year and we are delighted that the Racing Post has come on board to sponsor to the 2010 scheme.

Do you realistically feel that you will raise £500,000 again?We are confident of raising the £500,000 again this year. We will not be sure of the final numbers of horses until February 12, which is the next deadline for payment by vendors for all qualifying sales other than Kempton.

Is there a website for people to use for information? there is a website which is currently being updated and which will contain information regarding the 2010 scheme. it will be accessible at www.breezeupbonus.com. We will also be sponsoring the prestigious craven Stakes in newmarket for the next two years in order to assist in raising awareness of the scheme.

the vendors, trainers and agents will be the best people to promote the scheme as they will be the people selling and buying the horses at the sales.

What happens about not-sold horses, withdrawals, vendor purchases?non-sold horses, withdrawals and vendor purchases will all remain eligible for the scheme provided the relevant contributions have been made and all other aspects of the scheme are complied with.

Consignors often find it very difficult to have all their horses peaking on a particular day so there can be withdrawals for one reason or another. it is like a trainer having to have all his horses ready to race and win on just one day!

Will each sale’s eligible horses be listed in good time ahead of each sale for buyers?Yes, all eligible horses will carry the racing post Breeze-up Bonus eligible logo on their catalogue page.

Who is administrating the scheme? Weatherbys are administering the Scheme again this year.

the company did a marvellous job last year and it was a pleasure to work with them. We are delighted that they will be looking after the administration of the 2010 scheme.

Was it easier to pull together this time around?We had the advantage this year of having seen how the scheme operated in 2009 so from that point of view it probably has been easier.

We made very few changes to the format as the original scheme’s framework was so successful.

marion Finn is the newly appointed scheme co-ordinator and she can be contacted at [email protected]

The Breeze-Up Bonus 2010: Con Marnane answers the questions

diary irish stud farmer’s wife


Speculate to accumulateBrochures, DVDs and websites: its time to promote and market, while also hoping that the new stallion takes a liking to the ladies in his life

WITH Christmas, New Year and the horrible month that was January now over, we now hope that we can look forward to a better year in 2010.

Economically things do not seem so bad as the indicators have levelled off a little and now all we can do now is wait for a pick-up.

The calls to us enquiring about the boys are up on this time last year so hopefully it is a case of new year, new optimism. Maybe even the outstanding balances from the last few years might start reducing a little and we could begin a few projects that have been put on hold, waiting for the inflow of dollars.

The roster looks good this year as despite the economic climate we came to the conclusion that “this is what we are at so we may as make the best of it”. We have some new stallions – all with super pedigrees, race records and progeny – so hopefully the mares will arrive.

We are in the middle of brochures, DVDs and website developments – more investments we hope will pay off without us having to wait too long to recoup our money. I do love going through all the larger (and financially better off!) stud brochures as it gives great ideas and lets me dream of what we would do if money was no object.

For me, the pick this year is Derrinstown’s for the fabulous art work and originality – I keep pulling it out for a peek – and the Irish National Stud’s for the super colour, particularly the front cover. Every time I see the rainbow colours depicted on it optimism comes to mind, perhaps ironic considering the current political difficulties that the stud has been experiencing

We are pushing the boat out and are putting together a DVD. The boss has been harping on about it for years – I am threatening to get him to do the voice overs, but I have not made much progress.

It is difficult to know if spending large

amounts on promotional material is a good idea in the current times, but if we don’t promote our horses well, we won’t get the best quality mares. We are going to risk it and hopefully it will pay off!

For once this month I can’t complain about the weather. We have had most unusual weather for Ireland – 31 nights of frost in succession.

However, I thrive through a cold spell and the horses have really enjoyed it. All of ours come in for the winter and are in all-weather, covered paddocks so they have it cosy, but they have loved the absence of wind and rain for a whole month.

We were lucky with water – we have

a private well so a constant drip ensured we never got into difficulty. Many of our neighbours were not so lucky as they are dependent on group or public schemes so, instead of drawing water to horses over the Christmas as many had to do, we were drawing to humans!

Christmas was quiet which was great – the roads did not encourage socialising so we enjoyed a good chill-out, without having to politely refuse various nights out when all we wanted to do was curl up in front of the fire.

The one big problem I had was the constant moaning from the boss about the lack of racing coverage. Even he got tired of the constant repeats and was so desperate

Brochure design: Lee Bullett / The Practice

wearethepractice.com

Paintings & Drawings: Lydia Kiernan

lydiakiernan.co.uk

Copyright © Derrinstown Stud 2010

The Derrinstown brochure was voted the best for 2010

The best programme on TV over Christmas was the Henry Cecil interview on ATR

diary irish stud farmer’s wife

for his fix of sport that he started watching snooker – the return of racing could not have come sooner!!

The best programme over the Christmas period was the Henry Cecil interview filmed by At The Races. An amazing man – he is regarded as a great character in Ireland. We were lucky enough to visit his yard once while viewing potential stallions in Newmarket so watched his interview with great interest.

We have already brought down the mares due for early cover from their winter quarters, which means that the season is upon us. It seems to come round faster every year.

We try to have our own mares, who are not in foal, covered and finished before the very busy part of the year through March, April and May.

We also have a new sire to start off and this is always an unpredictable activity. We always have bets as to how the new man will take to his change in career.

Last year we had a new lad who started off with a complete and utter lack of interest in the game. He was quite happy to stand beside a mare, who was primed to the last for him, and just stare at her for hours on end. We have built up a range of tricks over the years to encourage reluctant starters and we tried them all to no avail. But, just when we were beginning to think we might have to give up and ring around some other stallion men for advice, the penny dropped and he took to the job like a duck to water.

There was no looking back then, but it was a hairy six weeks! It pays to start a new

stallion early because each horse is different and temperament is no predictor of covering attitude.

ONE long-established stallion man once told us never to give up or admit you are having problems until St Patrick’s Day on March 17 – that was the only thing

that kept us going on the long evenings in the covering barn last winter as we patiently waited for a bit of action.

Most of our sires are usually proven horses, but the first stallion to stand his first season with us has his first NH five-year-olds running this year.

We have a few ready to go and are sending some of them to England as there are a few trainers we feel they will really suit. It is going to be an interesting year for us as we have some good progeny, some of whom are hopefully heading to Cheltenham. We look forward to some good results there.

We just hope that the cold spell won’t have interfered too much with their progress and were very disappointed that Dundalk was not available for All-Weather bumpers and Flat races for hurdlers. Many would have benefited from an outing, even on the Flat.

I always think everything is worth trying once and feel in the circumstances that a pilot should have been attempted. If it didn’t work out and the demand was not high then nothing was lost, but at least Horse Racing Ireland would have given it a go and given the trainers a chance. Many trainers feel it would have been well supported.

We were delighted to see that the British Racing for Change initiatives are due for implementation by summertime.

The initiatives in relation to new and younger racegoers are particularly welcome as a renewed interest in racing will eventually spin off into the breeding industry and benefit us all.

I hope these initiatives will be a success and may provide an example to Ireland also – there are so many entertainment options that could be added to race days to improve its popularity as a varied day out thereby appealing to a wider audience.

The doom and gloom of the recession has faded – we have now accepted the reality so the next step is to consider the opportunities that might emerge and start rebuilding. Roll on better times in 2010 and happy New Year to all!

“It pays to start a new stallion early because every horse is different and temperament is no predictor of covering attitude

“


SETTINg oFF from the start like a scared rabbit, Dunkirk was quickly well clear of Arkle, Dormant and Arctic ocean and, passing the stands for the first time, he was

all of 20l clear... approaching halfway that advantage had been doubled.

“It did look for a second or two as if Dunkirk might pull off the impossible, but 2m was his limit and, as he reached the far side of the course for the last time, he was beginning to tire.

“Making up his ground effortlessly, Arkle went up to within 2l of Dunkirk and, as they approached the next, five from home, Arkle had drawn alongside and it was here that Dunkirk made his first, and last, mistake.

“Dunkirk’s fall took all the competition out of the race for Dormant and Arctic ocean were never sighted after the third fence. Arkle strode on in lone brilliance, putting in a fine leap at the

last to win by a distance and the same.”The extract from the Timeform

publication The Racing Week describes the 1965 King george VI Chase, the last time the race was won officially by a distance until Kauto Star repeated the achievement in December – Captain Christy won by an official 30l in 1975 from Bula, who started favourite for the Cheltenham gold Cup three months later.

Kauto Star’s brilliant victory set off once again the tiresome debate regarding the Timeform rating of 212 given to Arkle at the height of his powers, a mark 21lb higher than Kauto Star’s Timeform rating after the latest King george.

Comparisons between past and present champions are always difficult to make, and claims can never be substantiated to everyone’s satisfaction, which makes the task sometimes seem pointless.

Could any chaser give 21lb to a top-form Kauto Star and beat him? Surely Wh

o is t

he gr

eate

st of

them

all?

Arkle’s rating of 212 was correct at the time saytheboys fromTimeform

view from timeform


The debate comparing the

abilities of Arkle (right, below) and

Kauto Star has resurfaced once

again. But can the two

chasers, who are from such different eras, ever really be

compared to one another?

“

view from timeform

not? Before being too dismissive, however, it is worth Kauto Star’s supporters remembering that Arkle himself suffered at first from comparisons with golden Miller, the winner of five gold Cups and a grand National in the 1930s and widely regarded as “the greatest” until Arkle thoroughly established himself.

Arkle’s reputation was built not just on winning weight-for-age championships like the gold Cup (which he won three times) and the King George, but on his weight-carrying performances in big handicaps,which included victories in the Hennessy gold Cup, which he won twice under 12st7lb, three Leopardstown Handicap Chase success – won twice with 12st7lb and once with 12st – the Whitbread Gold Cup (12st7lb), the Irish Grand National (12st), the Gallaher Gold Cup (12st7lb) and the SGB Handicap Chase (12st7lb).

ARKLE WAS a phenomenon, his astonishing achievements redefining steeplechasing perfection. There were precious few of his contemporaries who could

be asked to carry more than 10st against Arkle’s 12st7lb and the rules had to be changed for the big handicaps with two sets of weights being produced, one if Arkle took part and the other if he didn’t.

In the Leopardstown Chase, for example, his next start after winning the King george, Arkle beat Height o’Fashion, a top-class mare rated 168+ by Timeform, and Splash, who had won the previous year’s Irish National with 10st13lb, earning a Timeform rating of 157.

Royal Mix (Fr) 137pMe Voici (Fr) 136pPistolet Noir (Fr) 135pBarizan (Ire) 134Olofi (Fr) 133pCarlito Brigante (Ire) 133Good Lord (Fr) 133Westlin’ Winds (Ire) 133Notus de la Tour (Fr) 132pSang Bleu (Fr) 130pGeorge Nympton (Ire) 127pBocamix (Fr) 126Mille Chief (Fr) 125p

Leading juveniLe hurdLerS


Leading chaSerSKauto Star (Fr) 191+Denman (Ire) 183Master Minded (Fr) 179Imperial Commander (Ire) 175Madison du Berlais (Fr) 170Neptune Collonges (Fr) 168Voy Por Ustedes (Fr) 166?The Listener (Ire) 164+Tidal Bay (Ire) 164§Big Zeb (Ire) 164Deep Purple 164Twist Magic (Fr) 163Big Buck’s (Fr) 162+Carruthers 162Cloudy Lane 162Golden Silver (Fr) 162Nacarat (Fr) 162Monet’s Garden (Ire) 161Tranquil Sea (Ire) 161Poquelin (Fr) 160+Barbers Shop 160Herecomesthetruth (Ire) 160Noland 160Jack The Giant (Ire) 159+Joncol (Ire) 159+Garde Champetre (Fr) 159Mister Top Notch (Ire) 159Mon Mome (Fr) 159What A Friend 159Cooldine (Ire) 158Money Trix (Ire) 158Petit Robin (Fr) 158

Leading hurdLerS

Big Buck’s (Fr) 174+Kasbah Bliss (Fr) 166Zaynar (Fr) 165+Binocular (Fr) 164Celestial Halo (Ire) 164Punjabi 164Solwhit (Fr) 164Fiveforthree (Ire) 163Karabak (Fr) 162Khyber Kim 162Go Native (Ire) 161+Crack Away Jack 161Lough Derg (Fr) 161Diamond Harry 160Sizing Europe (Ire) 160Sublimity (Fr) 160Mikael d’Haguenet (Fr) 159pMuirhead (Ire) 159Hurricane Fly (Ire) 158pFair Along (Ger) 158Sentry Duty (Fr) 157+Duc de Regniere (Fr) 157Pettifour (Ire) 157Walkon (Fr) 157De Valira (Ire) 156Jazz Messenger (Fr) 156Mr Thriller (Fr) 156Powerstation (Ire) 156Quevega (Fr) 156Medermit (Fr) 155Oscar Dan Dan (Ire) 155

Dunguib (Ire) 146pMenorah (Ire) 145pTell Massini (Ire) 145pBobby Ewing (Ire) 144pReve de Sivola (Fr) 144xRoyal Charm (Fr) 140pShinrock Paddy (Ire) 140pPepe Simo (Ire) 140Finian’s Rainbow (Ire) 138pJudge Roy Bean (Ire) 138Manyriverstocross (Ire) 138Any Given Day 137Erzen (Ire) 137

Leading novice hurdLerS Leading novice chaSerSLong Run (Fr) 153pPandorama (Ire) 153Captain Cee Bee (Ire) 152Sizing Europe (Ire) 151Inchidaly Rock (Ire) 150pFrench Opera 150Weapon’s Amnesty (Ire) 149+Osana (Fr) 149Alpha Ridge (Ire) 147Catch Me (Ger) 146Toby Jug 146Somersby (Ire) 145pLenabane (Ire) 145

view from timeform


Arkle carried 12st7lb, Height o’Fashion and Splash both had 9st7lb. Arkle came out a 43lb better horse at the weights than runner-up Height o’Fashion and 55lb better than third-placed Splash.

Returning to the King george, Dunkirk was certainly one chaser who would have been set to carry more than 10st against Arkle’s 12st7lb, had they ever met on handicap terms.

At the time of the King george, in which his fall proved fatal, Dunkirk was rated 186 in Timeform, having gained an all-the-way 20l victory in the Champion Chase, beaten Mill House by 15l at levels in the Frogmore Chase at Ascot and carried 12st7lb to victory in the Mackeson gold Cup, which was then over two miles and a few yards, in his three races before Kempton.

It is not altogether easy to describe to people who never saw the exhilarating Dunkirk in action the impression he created. Yet Arkle started a 7/1-on chance in the King george – he had started at 6/1-on in the Hennessy on his previous start when giving 32lb and a 15l beating to Freddie,

who had finished second in the previous season’s grand National with 11st10lb.

one of the suggestions given by those in the Kauto Star camp is that “it’s hard to imagine Arkle winning the Tingle Creek.”

Kauto Star has indeed proved himself splendidly versatile so far as distance is concerned, but, in the 1965 King george, Arkle had already caught the flying Dunkirk when that horse fell with still over three-quarters of a mile to go.

And does anyone imagine that if Kauto Star was taken on by the current 2m champion Master Minded in a King george that he would start at 7/1-on?

of course, all is conjecture. Arkle’s King george win and Kauto Star’s fourth successive victory in the same race were 44 years apart and much

has changed in the interim.The structure of the sport is different for

one thing with more valuable conditions events for the top horses than there were in Arkle’s day, making it much rarer to see a leading modern-day chaser giving lumps of weight away in handicaps, as Denman has twice done successfully in the Hennessy.

Horses are fed and trained differently and jockeys ride differently as the old black and white films of Pat Taaffe on Arkle clearly show, racecourses are better, as generally are the racing surfaces.

Racing itself does not enjoy such broad support nowadays, however, making it

harder for a top horse like Kauto Star to capture the general public’s imagination.

Whether Arkle’s achievements were greater than those of Kauto Star can never be proven. Some argue that, with Arkle, it is a case of distance lending enchantment to the view.

A bit like the pioneering achievement of Hillary and Tenzing in reaching the summit of Everest in 1953 perhaps. Was that really

as great as it was made out to be at the time? They may have been the first to climb

the world’s highest mountain, but it took seven weeks from base camp to the summit and there have been over 1,600 successful ascents since, including one by a 36-year-old sherpa who climbed Everest in ten hours and fifty-six minutes in 2003.

A similar debate might be had about Roger Bannister’s achievement in 1954 of becoming the first man to break the four-minute barrier for the mile, a time now bettered routinely in training by the current generation of professional middle-distance runners.

Arkle’s Timeform rating may raise eyebrows in some quarters nowadays but it is a very accurate assessment of how much better he was than most of his contemporaries.

He was certainly considerably more superior to the average chaser at the time than Kauto Star is to most of his own contemporaries. That much, at least, is beyond dispute.

Perhaps the most telling testament to Arkle’s standing in the pantheon of the steeplechasing greats is that his name, like those of Hillary, Tenzing and Bannister, still resonates nearly half a century afterwards.It was William Hazlitt who made the perceptive observation that “No man is truly great who is great only in his lifetime. The test of greatness is the page of history.”

We will have to wait to see whether posterity eventually judges Kauto Star to be “the greatest” or not.

“Arkle’s Timeform rating may raise eyebrows in some quarters nowadays but it is a very accurate assessment of how much better he was than most of his contemporaries

““No man is truly great who is great only in his lifetime. The test of greatness is the page of history.

“

“He was certainly considerably more superior to the average chaser at the time than Kauto Star is to most of his own contemporaries. That much, at least, is beyond dispute

“

Congratulations to Mark Johnston for training more winnersin the UK in one season than anyone in the last 300 years!

In the early part of 2009 Mark Johnston trained on Tapeta™,another synthetic surface, and the famous Middleham HighMoor turf gallops. Since June, although he still had otheroptions, he has trained almost exclusively on Tapeta™.• Mark has won 221 races• Won 2 races at Royal Ascot• Won 5 races at Glorious Goodwood

In 2009, only 2 trainers in the UK trained on Tapeta™, each winning over 100 races.

The top 10 trainers at Presque Isle Downs, Pennsylvania USA,rated Tapeta either 4 or 5 out of 5.

From April, we will be manufacturing Tapeta™ from our UK base in the South of England.

USATapeta Footings, Inc.102 Piney Creek LaneNorth East, MD 21901Tel: 1-410-287-8091Fax: 1-410-287-8410Email: [email protected]: [email protected]

UAETapeta Footings, Inc.P.O. Box 72218Dubai, UAETel: 971-50-551-2816Email: [email protected]

UKTapeta Footings, Ltd.Tel: 0798-056-7585Email: [email protected]

©2010 All Rights Reserved.

Tapeta™ is a registered trademarkof Michael Deckinson, Inc.

racing nh review


What a performanceKauto Star wins the King George for a fourth time by 36l in front of a packed, flag-waving crowd full of his loyal fans, writes Sally Duckett

NATIoNAL HuNT RACINg post-Christmas came to rather a halt as frost and snow took a tough stance with both England and Ireland through December and the

early part of January. Racing in the north of England came to a halt on December 14, and while south of Doncaster some sport was enjoyed over Christmas and the New Year, things came an end shortly after the on-off New Year’s Day meeting at Cheltenham as a second batch of cold weather took an icy grip.

Those who get their kicks from a daily bet might say “thank god for all-weather racing”, but the NH supporter found himself realising how boring life must be for through the winter for that strange individual, the non-jump racing fan. After all there are only so many times the dog can be taken for a walk, and the repeats of The great Escape, rather lose their lustre after a fifth time of viewing.

It also means that this review of the NH action is relying strongly on the Christmas period meetings – so luckily we had some decent sport, which the racing channels, desperate to fill their slots, have since been repeating ad finitum.

The success of Kauto Star was quite

blinding, and while it can be argued that he was not opposing the very best of opposition – the non-Paul Nicholls-trained top-class 3m chasers are a little thin on the ground at present – those he beat were literally galloped into the ground.

Nacarat took them along at a decent pace in the hope of taking Kauto’s speed and pace away from him, but heading into the second circuit only one horse was still travelling – and that was not Nacarat. The sheer ability of the winner foiled that plan – Kauto Star jumped to the front and went clear with ease leaving his rivals floundering. Only Madison Du Berlais, who looked as though he was ridden to finish second rather than win, was the only one who could keep the winner in sight through the home straight.

Imperial Commander (Flemensfith) in the end ran a reasonably respectable race – after clouting the second, he was given some time to find his rhythm on a track that was never going to play to his stamina strengths. He finished sixth without being given a hard ride and trainer Nigel Twiston-Davies may reap the benefits come Cheltenham in March, although realistically that should still only give him third place behind the record-breaking four-time King george victor and the Hennessy winner Denman.

The other impressive performance on the Kempton card was also produced by a French-bred horse – they do act well around the quick fast track – with the four-year-old Robert Waley-Cohen-owned Cadoudal gelding Long Run looking a developing talent in the Feltham Novices’ Chase (G1), and a possible future contender for the King george in 2010. And though he did not jump too accurately at times, for such a young horse to win around a track such as Kempton on his first start in Britain and in such a manner and at such a level, was

63 lengths Kauto Star’s total winning margin in his four King George victories


racing nh review

Unrivalled: Kauto Star gallops to a

clear victory. It was a unique performance to win his fourth King George

racing nh review

“Robin des Pres was incredibly well-supported in 2009 by Irish NH breeders keen to make use of the promising new stallion at the attractive fee of €2,500. He saw over 200 mares, 30 odd more than his half-brother Robin des Champs

“

impressive. He is out of the mare Libertina (see Mare of the Month, page 98) and is a half-brother to the capable Liberthine and a brother to Bica, both former Waley-Cohen-owned runners.

other successful French-bred runners over the Christmas period included golden Silver, a son of former French champion Mansonnien, who won the grade 1 Dial-A-Bet Chase from Paddy Power Chase winner Tranquil Sea. Reversing the slight out-of-form stint of the Willie Mullins-trained horses, he marked himself down as a general 14-1 chance for the Champion Chase.

The 2m race actually looks as though it might be one of the more open-looking Championship races at the Festival – current favourite Master Minded still has injury concerns and is only just back to ridden work, while the second favourite Big Zeb disappointed last time behind Twist Magic, who has his on-and-off days, in the Tingle Creek.

Another French-bred two miler who did not do his Champion Chase chances any harm was the seven-year-old gelding Petit Robin, who hails from the Nicky Henderson team which found a golden seam of form over the Christmas period. A son of Robin

des Pres, he is apparently a slightly fragile horse to train and he is unlikely to reappear before Cheltenham. And even though Henderson has said he will enter him in the Champion Chase, he may divert the horse instead to the level Aintree track and 2m4f.

The Anngrove Stud-based stallion Robin des Pres, who is heading into his second covering season in Ireland, was incredibly


After Kauto Star put in an impeccable round

of jumping (above), jockey Ruby Walsh delights Kauto’s legion of fans by throwing

most of his kit into the grandstand

www.internationalthoroughbred.net 27www.internationalthoroughbred.net

racing nh review

27

well-supported in 2009 by Irish NH breeders keen to make use of the promising new stallion at the attractive fee of €2,500. He saw over 200 mares, 30 odd more than his Rathbarry Stud-based half-brother Robin des Champs.

Me Voici, a tall rangy son of Saint des Saints, an unlikely sort to be running at the top level in juvenile hurdles, turned over the Paul Nicholls-trained hot-shot Sang Bleu, a son of developing French sire Lavirco, in the Future Champions’ Juvenile Hurdle (G1) at Chepstow.

Relishing the heavy ground, the Haras d’Etreham-bred four-year-old went clear approaching the last, despite looking green, leaving Sang Bleu trailing by 10l. Trained by Nick Williams, who bagged a second grade 1 winner just two days later when another of his French-breds Rive de Sivola (Assessor) won the Challow Hurdle, Me Voici, a chaser in the making, is unlikely to be aimed at the Triumph, the grade 1 four-year-old hurdle at Auteuil being a more likely target. Williams

buys most of his horses as youngsters and purchased this chap as a yearling at the Arqana 2007 october Sale, paying €20,000 for the pleasure. The investment of time and money has been well rewarded

Saint des Saints himself was bred by Haras des Saint Voir and stands at Haras de la Tuilerie for €4,500. He is a rare sort in that he was a high-class performer over hurdles himself, winning grade 2 and grade 3 races at Auteuil before retiring to stud.

After producing some slightly smaller crops through his second and third years at stud, 63 foals were registered by French breeders in 2009 – the son of Cadoudal will not be lacking opportunities in the coming years.

IT WAS NoT ALL about French sires over Christmas though, and Alflora made something of a resurgence after having a quiet time of it through 2009, while Kayf Tara continued his upwardly mobile progress.

Without a doubt Alflora’s star performer is his leading chaser What A Friend, who performed a small miracle after his tough

and energy-sapping run in the Hennessey to win the Lexus Chase from the Nicky Richards-trained Money Trix (Old Vic), with Paul Nolan’s Joncol (Bob’s Return) in third.

If What A Friend, a third grade 1 winner for his sire and still only a six-year-old, continues to improve at the rate he has done so far this season, he has a serious future ahead of him. As it is he adds yet another string to his trainer’s armoury at the top of the 3m chasing tree, though when remembering his complete defeat by Denman at Newbury, it is proof again that the second-tier of chaser is a group that is some way adrift of the leading pair.

Alflora was also responsible for the National Hunt Flat race winner Mizzurka, a winner at Newbury on the heavy.

Carruthers, a leading son of Kayf Tara, took himself to the top of the second-season chasers division in the Mandarin Chase at Newbury beating the well-touted Big Fella Thanks by 23l. He is now the second-highest earner by the overbury Stud stallion behind only Planet of Sound and will be given a tentative entry for owner-breeder Lord oaksey in the gold Cup. He does though prefer a softer surface, which is unlikely to be found at Prestbury Park in March.

others adding to Kayf Tara’s Festive haul included Give It Time, who finished second in the Tara Hurdle (G2) at Navan, The Package, winner of a Listed race at Newbury for trainer David Pipe, while three runners finished second in decent bumpers: Bringewood Moll, Tiffany Jones and Megastar.

His progeny do act well on a softer surface so this winter has allowed his runners to win

“If What A Friend, a third Grade 1 winner for his sire and still only a six-year-old, continues to improve at the rate he has done so far this season, he has a serious future ahead of him

“

Long Run marked himself as a King George horse of the future with success in the Feltham Novices ‘Chase under Sam Waley-Cohen

racing nh review

“King’s Theatre’s 58 runners from the beginning of December through to January 5 won 14 races (a 24 per cent strike rate) and finished in the places (including fourth place) 22 times

“

Go Native, under David Condon (pink cap), goes clear to win the Christmas Hurdle. Binocular under Tony McCoy (stripes) disappoints again


races while the rain has rained. Interestingly, Kayf Tara has yet to produce

a horse to bag earnings of more than £150,000 over fences, while Alflora has four such performers. Admittedly, he has been at stud longer, but the 21-year-old Shade oak Stud stallion is a producer of quality horses and appears good value at a £3,000 fee for 2010.

KINg’S THEATRE continued his excellent season with the Nicky Henderson-trained Riverside Theatre impressing in the Wayward Lad Novices’ Chase (G2) and putting himself in line

for a run in the Arkle, Voler la Vedette maintaining her seasonal form winning a Listed mares’ hurdle at Leopardstown, while another filly, Royal Choice, won a grade 3 novices’ chase for mares at Cork. He has also had three bumper winners: Forty Foot Tom, a winner at Navan by 24l, Old McDonald who won at Ludlow and Full Of Joy, successful at Chepstow before Christmas.

In all, King’s Theatre’s 58 runners from the beginning of December through to January 5 won 14 races (a 24 per cent strike

rate) and finished in the places (including fourth place) 22 times. In all, his progeny finished in the money on 62 per cent of their runs – a highly impressive statistic. overall, this season he has got winners to runners at 38 per cent, with most of them being young novices.

King’s Theatre also enjoyed grade 1 success as a broodmare sire, his daughter Arts Theatre being dam of the Paul Nolan-trained Shinrock Paddy (Deploy), winner of a 2m4f grade 1 novices’ hurdle at Navan

before Christmas. Shinrock Paddy was part of a grade 1 double for his trainer who also enjoyed success with Joncol, winner of the John Durkan Memorial and as previously mentioned a subsequent third in the Lexus.

Flemensfirth, as ever, had himself a heap of runners through December and

The Nicky Henderson and Barry Geraghty partership were enjoying a great run until the weather brought things to a standstill

January. He reaped the rewards with a grade 1 winner courtesy of the talented Pandorama, winner of the Leopardstown novice chase from Weapon’s Amnesty, while Drumbaloo won the valuable grade 2 bumper at Navan.

one very much at the other end of the numbers scale from Flemensfirth, and indeed of most commercial fellow Irish-based NH stallions, is Double Eclipse.

He has had just eight runners this season, but he has found a good one in the shape of Go Native, who is by far the Deelside Stud-based stallion’s best runner.

Having collected the Fighting Fifth Hurdle (G1) in November, Noel Meade’s runner franked that form with victory in the Christmas Hurdle, putting his connections in line for a £1 million bonus offered by Champion Hurdle sponsors WBX if he

is successful at Cheltenham. The 2009 Champion Hurdler Punjabi just missed out on the money last year having fallen at Kempton, and the sponsors will be nervously eying proceedings this spring.

go Native is a delight to watch as he has to be ridden to the button, being produced late in the proceedings. In his two grade 1s this season he has been ridden to great effect by David Condon, even though he himself reckoned that he got to the front too soon at Kempton.

He is a super sub however as he will be handing the reins back to senior jockey Paul Carberry at the Festival – through Christmas Carberry was suspended due to a positive alcohol test.

No doubt Carberry is itching to get back on the horse, but he must be very grateful that he has such a talented understudy who has maintained go Native’s progress to such great effect. If Carberry is successful in the Champion Hurdle, he will owe Condon a decent present. A bottle of something nice might not be appropriate in this instance.

And go Native has every chance of glory at the Festival. He has already proved that he acts around the track when successful in the Supreme Novices’ last season from Medermit and this season he has translated his novice form to the top of the hurdling division.

go Native’s Festival victory meant that Double Eclipse covered 67 mares in 2009 compared to just 22 and 25 in 2008 and 2007; David and Eileen Moran of Deelside will be hoping that lightning can strike twice and their sire’s progress (and earning capabilities) continues.

With racing and training significantly held up on both sides of the Irish Sea due to the poor weather, those owners and trainers with Cheltenham hopefuls would have been getting more than a little twitchy through January.

All fingers and toes will now be crossed in the hope that no other factors intervene to halt progress to gloucestershire for the middle of March.

www.internationalthoroughbred.net 29www.internationalthoroughbred.net

racing nh review

29

Petit Robin: the son of Robin des Pres was an impressive winner of the Desert Orchid Chase

And then it all came to an end...

racing southern hemisphere


rose flowers on gold coastAmy Bennett sees General Nediym go to the top of the juveniles sires’ list after his daughter wins the A$2m Magic Millions 2yO Classic

SALES RACES are often lamented in the northern hemisphere as distorting the sire championships and for placing too much emphasis on one race as connections go in pursuit

of a large purse at the expense of more established races.

Those accusations are seldom levelled at the Magic Millions 2Yo Classic, which, with a prize pot of A$2m, is surely truly the

world’s richest two-year-old race, and boasts a list of alumni that have more than proved their worth in subsequent ventures.

The result of this year’s contest was notable for several reasons.

First, the one-two-three in the 16 runner field were all fillies. Second, the race went for the second time to a daughter of general Nediym, Military Rose, following the victory of Regimental gal in 2003.

In addition, general Nediym, who died

a year ago following complications from a bout of colic, was himself a winner of the valuable contest, triumphing in 1997 prior to a subsequent career that encompassed two victories at the highest level.

From an initial stud fee of A$6,000 in 1997, the racetrack results of progeny of the son of Nediym saw his fee rise to an advertised A$60,000 at Widden Stud, New South Wales, in 2008.

The honours in this year’s MM 2Yo

Military Rose wins the Magic Millions

Classic and has now earned more

than A$1.3m. The filly is being

aimed now for the valuable

Golden Slipper

Photo: Magic Millions



Classic went to Military Rose, herself an A$155,000 purchase from Middlebrook Valley Lodge at last year’s Magic Millions Sale. Her price is a far cry from the A$20,000 paid for her sire as well as the A$16,500 price tag given for her paternal half-sister. Her subsequently Magic Millions consigned half-sister fetched A$150,000.

Military Rose’s own purchase cost has now been recouped many times over and she has already taken her career earnings past the A$1.3m mark, having garnered four victories from as many starts to date.

The filly was also one of the easiest winners of the 2Yo Classic in recent memory, cruising home clear by nearly 4l for gold Coast trainer gillian Heinrich.

“oh my god,” gillian Heinrich screamed moments after the race. “That was sensational. How good is she? She’s unbelievable.

“When we first started galloping her we thought she was special. But we didn’t really know how special she was.

“It’s so hard to get a horse into this race today – let alone win it. It’s just absolutely fantastic.”

The filly is now being aimed at the Golden Slipper in Sydney in a few months’ time.

general Nediym is now a comfortable leader of the Australian two-year-old sires’ table.

graceful Anna’s remarkable rise through racing’s ranks reached a peak at the gold Coast when she won the $1 million Queensland Racing Magic Millions 3Yo Trophy, run over 7f. Previously,

she won the group 3 Rogue Plate held on Boxing Day at Doomben.

A daughter of Canny Lad, graceful Anna provided her young trainer David Pfeiffer with his greatest win when she held out the late charge from Tallow and Love Conquers All.

Pfeiffer, 29, couldn’t believe he his luck.“It was an outstanding win,” he said. “To

win five in a row is a big effort and to win a race like this today is outstanding.

“For a young bloke like me who is trying to get going – it’s tops. People dream about this stuff and it doesn’t always come true. But it has today!”

Graceful Anna is the first winner to date for her dam, the lightly raced grand Lodge mare Lamellar.

A half-sister to the Adelaide stakes winner Catriona, Lamellar is now based in

Western Australia and her latest yearling will go under the hammer at the 2010 Magic Millions Perth Yearling Sale.

The mare Hidden Wonder continued the winning streak by the fairer sex at the Magic Millions meeting taking her unbeaten run to three when winning the A$251,975 Johnnie Walker Magic Millions Stayers’ Cup (1m1f).

The mare, who was originally scheduled to be retired to the paddocks this season, is another successful syndication for the Melbourne-based Prime Thoroughbreds operation run by Joe o’Neill.

o’Neill, who purchased Hidden Wonder for just $50,000 from the draft of Bellerive Stud at the 2006 Magic Millions Yearling Sale, was a happy man.

“This is a big day and to win this race is phenomenal,” he said. “She’s won two at Randwick. She’s won here and she’s won in Melbourne and Adelaide.

“There’s some lovely people in the horse and I think there will be some very excited people around.

“We were thinking about breeding from her, but then we changed our mind. She’s very tough and she comes from a very good family. I’ve bought two more Danzero fillies this year – and they will be advertised soon!”

With a black-type performance also under her belt, she is now a valuable stud prospect.

group race action was thin on the ground through the Christmas period in Australia, but the group 3 Summer Cup, held at Randwick on Boxing Day, was won by Solid Billing, a six-year-old son of Rock of gibraltar.

“Katie Lee etched her name into the record books, and looks set to continue her magnificent Classic run and has a tilt at the New Zealand Oaks in March lined up

“Leading stallions australia and new Zealand 2009-2010 by earnings

Street Cry Machiavellian AUS 42 3/5 3/2 5,869,152 ShockingEncosta de Lago Fairy King AUS 75 8/9 5/1 4,478,798 Manhattan RainScenic Sadler’s Wells - 33 4/7 3/2 3,697,296 ViewedHigh ChaparraL Sadler’s Wells NZ 9 2/4 2/2 3,482,182 So you ThinkRedoute’s Choice Danehill AUS 75 8/8 4/1 3,349,130 Allez WonderLonhro Octagonal AUS 54 7/9 4/1 3,181,162 DenmanGeneral Nediym Nediym - 78 3/5 0/0 3,090,722 Military RoseCommands Danehill AUS 91 4/5 4/0 3,021,135 PurpleTesta Rossa Perugino AUS 75 2/2 1/0 2,871,993 OrtensiaMore Than Ready Southern Halo AUS 69 4/5 3/1 2,766,413 More JoyousZabeel Sir Tristram NZ 67 4/4 2/1 2,564,400 Efficient Choisir Danehill Dancer AUS 53 4/6 2/1 2,537,248 StarspangledbannerRed Ransom Roberto AUS 33 2/3 2/2 2,334,304 All AmericanFastnet Rock Danehill AUS 35 5/6 3/1 2,191,529 Irish LightsMontjeu Sadler’s Wells - 33 6/7 5/2 2,143,284 Roman Emperor

Stallion Sire Stands Wnrs S/Wins g1SW earnings a$ Top earner



IF KATIE LEE seems to dominate monthly reports of New Zealand’s racing, that is a fair reflection of the filly herself as she has been a dominant feature of the 2009-10 season.

The dual guineas winner has run seven times – and also trialled twice for as many wins – and trainers graeme and Debbie Rogerson were not afraid to run their superstar filly in quick succession with the grey daughter of Pins being in action twice in eight days over the Christmas period.

At Ellerslie’s ultra-popular Boxing Day meeting the three-year-old showed all her class to land the group 2 Cambridge Stud Eight Carat Classic over a mile, a contest run in memorial of another great horse, the legendary broodmare Eight Carat.

Two late dashes gave Katie Lee her historic Guineas double, and the filly repeated the dose on Boxing Day, triumphing by a head from the Stephen McKee-trained filly Adaline.

Ironically, Adaline’s sire, the Australian-based Court of Jewels, is himself a grandson of Eight Carat, whose talented offspring number five Group 1 winners among them, including the champion octagonal, and such talented runners as Kaapstad and Diamond Lover.

The Australian-bred Adaline gained her revenge a week later at the same venue on New Year’s Day. The 1m2f Royal Stakes (G2) is seen as a stepping stone to the New Zealand Oaks (G1) at Trentham in March, and Adaline appeared to relish the step up in distance. Having cruised into the lead at

the 300m mark, the filly looked set fair for an easy win, but Katie Lee dashed out of the pack to run her down to half a length at the line.

A A$10,000 purchase from William Inglis & Sons’ great Southern Weanling Sale, Adaline was knocked down to Stephen McKee’s father Trevor, trainer of the great mare Sunline, at the Select session of the 2008 New Zealand Bloodstock National Yearling Sales Series for NZ$28,000.

Two hours prior to Katie Lee’s gallant second place on New Year’s Day, a half-sister to the outstanding filly was also thwarted in her bid for group-race glory.

Banchee, a daughter of oratorio, entered the Eclipse Stakes (G3) at Ellerslie off the back of a win at the same track last month and a debut trial win in November.

Bred by Hallmark Stud and the Trevor Hurley Trust, Banchee was knocked down for NZ$375,000 at the 2009 NZB Premier yearling sale. She looks set to emulate her older sister.

The pair are out of the Spectacularphantom mare Miss Jessie Jay, winner of nine of her 43 starts, most notably the Fayette Park Stakes (G3) in October 2001.

Miss Jessie Jay slipped to o’Reilly in 2008 and is due to foal to first-season sire Darci Brahma this spring.

Her own dam, Miss Distinction, is still being bred by the same ownership as Miss Jessie Jay at the age of 19, and is in foal to Darci Brahma.

After Adaline’s group 2 victory on New Year’s Day, the feature race of Ellerslie’s card

also fell to an Australian-bred with gold Trail turning in a brilliant performance to land the Railway Handicap (G1).

Trained in his native country, the Australian raider powered to an early lead and maintained his advantage to the line in the 6f contest, withholding the late challenge of his fellow countryman Atapi.

The victory was the first at the highest level for the son of Hussonet, although he has certainly earned his oats with several eye-catching performances in top company during his career.

Gold Trail is from the first Australian crop of his sire Hussonet, who won seven champion sires’ titles in Chile before claiming the title of champion in Australia in 2007-08, largely due to the exploits of the outstanding Weekend Hussler.

Hussonet stood for an advertised A$71,000 in 2009, a far cry from the NZ$3,500 commanded by the Rahy stallion Electronic Zone, who was responsible for Vosne Romanee, winner of the Kelt Capital, Ellerslie’s other group 1 race held over Christmas.

The homebred gelding failed to find a buyer when offered at the NZB yearling sales and bidding halted at NZ$13,000, just shy of his NZ$15,000 reserve.

He has now boosted his sire into second place in the list of leading New Zealand sires – a far cry from the 52nd place Electronic Zone finished at the end of last season.

Electronic Zone raced in Hong Kong and now plies his trade at Cheveley Stud in Te Aroha in the Waikato Stud.

Leading stallions of 2yos australia and new Zealand 2009-2010 by earnings

General Nediym Nediym - 7 3/5 0/0 1,735,297 Military RoseSnitzel Redoute’s Choice AUS 4 0/0 0/0 418,350 Chance ByeDanehill Dancer Danehill AUS 1 0/0 0/0 398,869 Ambers WaltzCommands Danehill AUS 4 0/0 0/0 300,865 Demanding MissJet Spur Flying Spur AUS 4 0/0 0/0 265,100 Slice and DiceJohannesburg Hennessy - 3 2/2 0/0 259,972 JantzenFastnet Rock Danehill AUS 4 1/1 0/0 223,396 Ebony RockMore Than Ready Southern Halo AUS 1 0/0 0/0 181,950 BrightexpectationsEncosta de Lago Fairy King AUS 4 1/1 0/0 177,021 ZutaraFalvelon Alannon AUS 2 0/0 0/0 171,140 Extreme MoverShamardal Giant’s Causeway AUS 2 1/1 0/0 169,721 Mundi GullyInvincible Spirit Green Desert - 2 1/1 0/0 163,050 She’s Got GearShovhog Danehill AUS 4 0/0 0/0 159,250 Raise UpMossman Success Express AUS 6 0/0 0/0 156,961 AgisterSecret Savings Seeking the Gold - 3 0/0 0/0 149,220 Misshiraz

Stallion Sire Stands Wnrs S/Wins g1SW earnings a$ Top earner

UNBEATEN AT 2; CLASSIC WINNING MILER AT 3A GROUP 1 SIRE WITH HIS FIRST SMALL CROPSWinners from just 3 crops to date include Nahoodh (Gr.1 and Gr.2 winner; also Gr.1 placed); Beacon Lodge (Gr.3 winner at 2; Gr.3 and LR winner in 2009); Rock My Soul (2 x LR in 2009); Dovil Boy (Gr.3 placed in 2009), etc.

By Champion Sire DANEHILL (also sire of Dansili, Danehill Dancer, Oratorio, etc). Ex Gr.2 winner CLODARA (by Linamix).2009 yearlings made £100,000, �90,000, �90,000, £75,000, £52,000, etc.

HIS LARGEST CROP COMES ON STREAM IN 2010

A GROUP 1 SIRE AND CHAMPION SIRE OF 2YOSHis recent winners include KINGSGATE NATIVE (Gr.1 winner at 2 and 3 years); Galeota (Gr.2 winner at 2; also 4-time LR winner and Gr.1 placed); Lesson In Humility (Gr.3 winner and 2 x LR in 2009; also Gr.1 placed twice), etc.

By Champion 2yo STORM BIRD (also sire of Storm Cat, Summer Squall, etc), out of a dam from the Classic French family of Ma Biche, Mige, etc.2009 yearlings made �100,000, �62,000, £55,000, £48,000, £41,000, etc.

Thousand WordsB. 2004, 16.1hh, by Dansi l i ex Verbose (Storm Bird )

ClodovilGr. 2000, 15.3hh, by DANEHILL ex Clodora (Linamix )

MujadilB. 16.0hh, by STORM BIRD ex Val lee Secrete (Secretar iat )

Fee: �9,000(1

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tobe

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Fee: �7,500(1

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Rathasker Stud Sires for 2010

BRILLIANT GROUP WINNER OF THREE RACES AT 2 YEARSAlso fifth in the Gr.1 French 2000 Guineas (btn 31⁄2 lengths from a bad draw).

Rated above Gr.1 winners Duke Of Marmalade, Cockney Rebel and Sakhee’s Secret at 2.

By DANSILI (by Champion Sire Danehill)Ex VERBOSE (by Champion 2-y-o Storm Bird – also sire of Storm Cat)Stakes placed winner from the family of Gr.1 French Guineas winner Matiara.

SIMILAR CROSS TO CHAMPION UK SIRE OASIS DREAM

His impressive first book of mares included the dams of Gr.1 winner Ransom O’Warand Stakes winners Cute Ass, Jalmira, Moyenne, Cotton House, Cristal Islandand Apprimus; full sisters to Gr.1 winner Ma Biche and Gr.3 winner Dancing Sunset, and half sisters to Gr.1 winner Namid, Gr.2 winner Flashy Wings, Gr.3 winners Beacon Lodge, Nick’s Nikita and Leggy Lou, and LR winners Irony and Cute Ass.

Firstcrop

foals in 2010 Fee: �4,000(1

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Rathasker Stud Kilcullen Road, Naas, Co. Kildare. Contact: MAURICE BURNSTel: 045 876940 • Fax: 045 897410 Mobiles: 086 2500687 or 087 9669058 • e-mail: [email protected]

Rathasker Int TB Feb 2010:Rathasker Int TB 2010 20/1/10 14:51 Page 2

Inbreeding to Northern Dancer: a successful racing strategy?In part two of his article on inbreeding to Northern Dancer, David Dink explains the results of his research into its effects on racecourse performance

feature inbreeding


In last month’s edition of International Thorougbred, we examined whether horses of varying degrees of inbreeding to northern

Dancer, fetched more or less money at the sales.

this month, we are going to examine whether those horses inbred to northern Dancer turn out to be better racehorses.

the table opposite shows the racing results for the different groups discussed in Part 1 of this article.

In order to evaluate the performance and quality of any group of foals (or sires, for that matter), all you really need to know is the number of foals, the number of stakes winners, and how good those stakes winners were. The first two factors are no problem, but the third is a bit more problematic so we developed our own mechanism of analyis called Performance

Points (PP) and a Performance Points Index (PPI), which I have explained below.

of the 54,244 total foals sold at the sales, 2,043 (3.77 per cent) were stakes winners. they earned an average of 627 PP.

of the 7,206 sales foals inbred to northern Dancer, 307 (4.26 per cent) were stakes winners. so the northern Dancer group had about 13 per cent more stakes winners from foals than the total group.

the 307 northern Dancer stakes winners earned a total of 219,302 PP, an average of 714, or about 14 per cent better than the overall group. take both quantity and quantity into account, and the northern Dancer group is about 29 per cent better than the overall group (1.13 times 1.14).

We do need to include a quick note on accounting here. these horses could have sold once as a weanling, once as a yearling, and

once as a two-year-old. many of them were sold more than once in the same year.

In the former case, they were counted as separate foals. In the latter case, they were counted as one foal, and the average of their prices was used. Because some of these foals were counted more than once (sold in different years), 3.77 per cent stakes winners from foals is actually somewhat low. If all foals were counted only once, it would be more like 4.5 per cent. Clear as mud?!

How much better?so did the inbreeding to northern Dancer actually cause a 29 per cent improvement in these 7,206 foals?

Well, not exactly. It has to be asked how good is northern Dancer by himself without being duplicated? We have some numbers from a previous study to give a pretty good

approximation.most of these duplications

to northern Dancer are in the third and fourth generations (not many in the second or fifth generations).

northern Dancer shows up 12,342 times in the third generation only and 21,402 times in the fourth generation only of the batch of 54,244 foals.

those 33,744 foals had a PPI of 1.17 on the nose. so the improvement from inbreeding to northern Dancer overall was about 10 per cent (1.29 divided by 1.17). that is not a great deal of improvement, but over that large number of foals, it would have to be considered significant. Different categoriesthe different levels of inbreeding to northern Dancer show a wide variety of results, as can be seen the table.

Based on prices, as seen in the

In order to ascertain overall how good a stakes winner (or group of stakes winners) is, we invented another statistic.

each stakes winner is awarded 400 points for each Group/Grade 1 victory, 300 for a win in a Group or Grade 2 race, 200 for a Group or Grade 3 success and 100 for all other non-graded stakes wins (all by black-type rules).

They are also awarded an additional point for each $1,000 earned.

Take Azeri, for example. At 9,380 she is by far the best stakes winner inbred to northern dancer in Table 4.

She won 17 of 24 starts and earned $4,079,820. Fourteen of those 17 wins were in stakes races, 11 in Grade 1 races and

three in Grade 2. That gives her 5,300 points, plus 4,080 points for her earnings for a total of 9380.

This statistic is called Performance Points, and the group statistic derived is called the Performance Points Index (or PPI for short).

The main problem with using earnings is inflated Japanese earnings. Japanese earnings have

been divided by 8.5 to bring them into line with prize-money in other countries. For a more detailed discussion of Performance Points and the decision to deflate Japanese earnings by 8.5, see http://fmitchell07.wordpress.com/for my posting on the rasumussen Factor there beginning in early August.

What are Performance Points?


feature inbreeding

Male-Male 4,808 212 4.41 159,394 752 1.4Male-Female 907 31 3.42 22,749 734 1.06Female-Male 737 33 4.48 21,107 640 1.21Female-Female 105 5 4.76 2,509 502 1.01Multiple (all male) 354 16 4.52 9,532 596 1.14Multiple (mixed) 294 10 3.4 4,011 401 0.58Multiple (all female) 1 0 0 0 0 0Totals 7,206 307 4.26 219,302 714 1.29

Category Foals Race % Foals Performance PP PPI Winners Points Average

Male-Male 4,808 212 4.41 159,394 752 1.4Five or Six 455 15 3.3 10,903 727 1.01Seven 2,023 81 4 69,383 857 1.45Eight 2,615 116 4.44 73,978 638 1.2Nine or Ten 1,464 69 4.71 51,495 746 1.49Multiple 649 26 4.01 13,543 521 0.88

Category Foals Performance % Foals Performance PP PPI Winners Points Average

By Degree of Inbreeding

US race results of Northern Dancer’s inbred progeny 1999-2002 By Category

previous January article, male-male duplications should have been best, and indeed they were with a PPI of 1.40.

according to prices, male-female duplication should have been second best, but in fact they had a rather anemic PPI of 1.06. they were worst of all the categories in the table by percentage of stakes winners from foals at 3.42, but the stakes winners they did get were pretty good at 734 (second best).

this disappointing result for male-female is rather interesting because of the prevalent belief that “balanced-sex” inbreeding (either male-female or female-male in these terms) produces the best results. not necessarily so.

to be fair, female-male was a lot better than male-female despite an average of only $26,585 and a maverage of 112.60 (see January for explanation of maverage). they had 4.48 per cent stakes winners from foals (compared to 3.42 per cent for male-female).

the quality of the female-male stakes winners was only 640, but their overall PPI of 1.21 was better than male-female at 1.06 despite significantly lower prices.

Balanced sex inbreedingIf you put male-female and female-male together you come up with the following numbers for “balanced-sex” total: 1,644 foals, a gross of $75,130,983, an average of $45,700, and maverage of 141.60.

they had 64 stakes winners (3.89 per cent and below northern Dancer’s overall numbers) with a PP average of 685 for an overall PPI of 1.13 (below northern Dancer’s overall rating).

lower prices and proportionally lower results. taken together, the total for “balanced-sex” inbreeding is just about average compared to northern Dancer’s overall numbers.

Female-female duplications actually had the highest

percentage of stakes winners from any group in the table at 4.76. That was based on only five stakes winners from 105 foals, but those five stakes winners

were no great shakes (an average PP of 502) for an overall PPI of 1.01.

With an average price of only $21,015 and a maverage of only

Male-Male 4,808 1.15 1.4Male-Female 907 1.1 1.06Female-Male 737 0.75 1.21Female-Female 105 0.73 1.01Multiple (all male) 354 1.02 1.14Multiple (mixed) 294 0.89 0.58Multiple (all female) 1 0.82 0Totals 7,206 1.08 1.29

Category Foals Performance PPI (result)

By Degree of Inbreeding

Prices verses results

By Category

Category Foals Performance PPI (result)Five or Six 455 1.11 1.01Seven 2,023 1.12 1.45Eight 2,615 1.09 1.2Nine or Ten 1,464 1.05 1.49Multiple 649 0.96 0.88Totals 7,206 1.08 1.29


feature inbreeding

110.06, though, that result is not bad at all. It is somewhat surprising that so few foals are inbred to northern Dancer in this fashion. Why low prices for top female inbreeding?Why did the inbreeding to northern Dancer through a female in the top (sire) side (female-male and female-female) produce such low prices in the first place?

the sires of those 38 stakes winners were half term, afternoon Deelites (four), not For love (six), With approval (two), Rhythm (two), Roar, signal tap (three), norquestor, Cat’s Career (two), mutakddim (three), nelson (two), Fortunate Prospect (two), Ghostly moves, Eastern Echo, swiss Yodeler, accelerator, halory hunter, southern halo (two), Event of the Year and tour d’or.

some decent sires, but no storm Cats nor sadler’s Wells.

the three multiple groups all had low prices and not very good results, particularly multiple-mixed at a PPI of 0.58. multiples would have been even worse without Flower alley (4x5x4 all male and rated at 3734).

Degree of Inbreedingas mentioned earlier, the averages for the four groups line up perfectly, declining from $75,538 for the most closely

inbred group to $47,335 for the least closely inbred group (although maverages disgreed, as noted above).

Clearly buyers thought that the closer the duplication, the better the foal was likely to be, and hence the more it was worth. Not for the first time, buyers were not exactly correct in this assumption.

the percentage of stakes winners from foals went in exactly the opposite direction, from 3.3 per cent for the most closely inbred group to 4.71 per cent for the least closely inbred group (with multiples listed just to fill out the numbers and not being very good, with a PPI of 0.88).

the quality of the stakes winners was a different story, with seven being best at 857, nine or ten being next at 746, five or six being next at 727, and eight being last (except for multiples) at 638.

so, the overall PPI were nine or ten best at 1.49, seven next at 1.45, eight next at 1.2, and five or six last (except for multiples) at 1.01.

The five or six group would be even worse without Got Koko – 3x3 female-male and rated at 2,361.

It is tempting to point to azeri, who was 5x4 male-male to northern Dancer, as being the main reason nine or ten appears to be so good.

Speaking of groups that are not any good, one group sold for huge prices and produced very poor results. This group has northern dancer duplicated anywhere in the second generation (including multiples). The vast majority are by sons of northern dancer, but some are out of his daughters. Here are the numbers on these 144 foals: gross of $19,858,546, average of $137,907, and a maverage of 254.85.

At those prices, this group should have had excellent results. It decidedly did not. It produced 144 foals, four stakes winners (2.78 per cent), and an overall PPI of 0.83.

The four stakes winners in this group were Line rider ($650,000 yearling, rated at 200, 2x4), Bowman’s Band ($260,000 two-year-old, rated at 1916, 2x4), Coahoma ($3,000 yearling, rated at 281, 2x5), and Ishiguru ($1.15 million yearling, rated at 415, 2x5).

A duplication that certainly did not work

Ishiguru: was one of just four stakes winners inbred in the

second generationBut this group also had take

Charge lady (4x5 male-male and rated at 4,980), madcap Escapade (4x5 male-male and rated at 2,653), sweet talker (4x5 male-male and rated at 2,099), and my trusty Cat (4x5 male-male and rated at 2,003). All five are fillies.

Perhaps nine or ten was a legitimately good group and not a one-horse aberration after all.

the Price Index is merely the maverage for the group divided by the overall maverage of 149.82. the idea is to combine the table from the January edition and this month’s table into one chart and list prices and results alongside each other. that helps the reader to see at a glance which groups are good relative to their prices and which groups are not. see below left for discussion of one group that decidedly was not any good.

ConclusionsJust because inbreeding to northern Dancer does appear to improve overall results (although not for all categories examined), do not jump to the conclusion that inbreeding is the way, the truth, and the light.

For one thing, the incidence of inbreeding to northern Dancer was noticeably on the rise even from 1999 to 2002. If it was 13.3 per cent then, it could be 20 per cent or higher by now. and the larger a group, the more difficult it is to maintain good results.

northern Dancer is northern

Dancer, and to assume that other sires behave in the same fashion as he does when duplicated would not be very smart. some sires will have good results, and some will have bad results (whether duplicated or not).

some sires will be much more predominantly female-female than male-male (Buckpasser, for example). all sires will have their own idiosyncrasies and individual sires should be researched individually.

In april 2008 both the north american Jockey Club and Bloodstock Research Information Services made five-cross pedigrees with inbreeding annotated available for free on their respective websites. the latter even included race records, and the former followed suit in a more restricted fashion.

the importance of this is that it made it much more practical for anyone now to do this type of research on their own. anyone with enough patience and persistence, that is.

many people in this industry have pontificated about inbreeding (or other pedigree matters) without offering a shred of evidence (other than anecdotal, which is no evidence at all) to substantiate their theories.

their days of being taken seriously are now numbered.

Crosspeace b 2002 16.1hh

Sea The Stars at an affordable priceWinner of six races (6f to 12f) and £220,874, including the Listed Glorious Stakes and Selby Stakes

By Cape Cross, sire of champion Sea The Stars, Ouija Board, Seachange and more

First yearlings 2010

Fee: £1,000 October 1st

Contact: Rob or Kin Lundberg-YoungDairy House Stud, Bradley Road, Warminster, BA12 7JY Tel: 01985 211014 / email: [email protected] www.dairyhousestud.co.uk

Victory Note b 1995 16.0hh

A Classic miler Winner of three races at 2-3, and £148,492 in earnings.

At 2: Winner LR Rose Bowl Stakes

At 3: Winner Poule d’Essai des Poulains (G1); Greenham Stakes (G3) in record time

By Fairy King, brother to Sadler’s Wells and sire of the Group 1 winners and sires Oath, Falbrav, Helissio, Turtle Island and Revoque

Consistent producer of quality horses under both codes.

Winners on the Flat, include the Synergy, winner of Group 3 Prix Fille De L’Aire, Group 3 winners Peace Offering and Poltava and the Listed winners Majors Cast, Rockets ‘N Rollers, Victory Grove and Serenote.

NH winners include Victram, a dual Listed hurdle winner, including the Listed NH Flat race winner Swiss Note and City Note.

Two in training with Paul Nicholls.

Fee: £1,750 October 1st

Fairy King – Three Piece (Jaazeiro)

Cape Cross-Announcing Peace (Danehill)

Dairy House Stud


Stars on top of the worldNo surprise as to which horse topped the World Rankings, but some have queried why Sea The Stars has been rated only the ninth best since the classifications began. Alan Porter explains that the handicappers could only allocate him a mark on his actual achievements and not what he had appeared to have left in reserve at the end of his races

FRanK sInatRa famously crooned in 1965 that “It was a very good year.” Coincidentally, that was the year of sea-Bird. the chestnut son of Dan Cupid is still be regarded by many

veterans as the best that they have ever seen, but 2009 saw an undefeated campaign by a horse that many have placed in the sea-Bird’s class. some exuberant commentators even dubbed him “perhaps the best of all-time.”

The official rating that the World Rankings committee has given Sea The

Stars however doesn’t quite agree with that assessment, although over all it confirms it was indeed a very good year.

If we look at the World thoroughbred Rankings, we see that sea the stars has been regarded as the best in more than a decade, but certainly not a “nonpareil.” sea-Bird II is beyond the recall of many of today’s writers, a significant proportion of whom might not even have been born when he strode across the European stage, but virtually all of them will recall Peintre Celebre, who topped the ratings in 1997, earning a figure of 137, compared to sea the stars’s 136.

While fans of sea the stars will feel their hero has been slighted – he was also rated lower than the previous champions Dancing Brave and Generous – we’d have to question whether comparisons are really all that meaningful.

at the end of the day, all the handicappers can do is take the bare form. Peintre Celebre won his “arc” by 5l from the excellent Pilsudski. sea the stars overcame considerable difficulties to score by 2l from Youmzain. Evaluating several of his other performances is also difficult as a number of his best wins were achieved in tactical battles


feature world rankings

WoRlD RANkINgS: leading three-year-olds (continued over...)

Rating kgs Name Sire Dam Sex Distance Surface owner Trainer Country136 61.5 Sea The Stars (IRE) Cape Cross (IRE) Urban Sea (USA) C I T Mr Christopher Tsui John M. Oxx IRE131 59.5 Sea The Stars (IRE) Cape Cross (IRE) Urban Sea (USA) C L T Mr Christopher Tsui John M. Oxx IRE129 58.5 Rip Van Winkle (IRE) Galileo (IRE) Looking Back (IRE) C I,M T Magnier, Tabor & Smith A. P. O’Brien IRE128 58 Fame And Glory (GB) Montjeu (IRE) Gryada (GB) C L,I T Magnier, Tabor & Smith A. P. O’Brien IRE127 57.5 Rachel Alexandra (USA) Medaglia d’Oro (USA) Lotta Kim (USA) F M D Stonestreet Stables et al Steven Asmussen USA125 56.5 Cavalryman (GB) Halling (USA) Silversword (FR) C L T Sheikh Mohammed A. Fabre FR124 56 Mastercraftsman (IRE) Danehill Dancer (IRE) Starlight Dreams (USA) C I T Magnier, Tabor & Smith A. P. O’Brien IRE123 55.5 Summer Bird (USA) Birdstone (USA) Hong Kong Squall (USA) C I D Jayaraman, Dr. Vilasini D. Jay Tim A. Ice USA121 55 Summer Bird (USA) Birdstone (USA) Hong Kong Squall (USA) C L D Jayaraman, Dr. Vilasini D. Jay Tim A. Ice USA122 55.5 Courageous Cat (USA) Storm Cat (USA) Tranquility Lake (USA) C M T Mr and Mrs Martin J Wygod William I. Mott USA122 55.5 Mine That Bird (USA) Birdstone (USA) Mining My Own (USA) G I D Double Eagle Ranch B. Woolley Jr USA122 55.5 So You Think (NZ) High Chaparral (IRE) Triassic (NZ) C I,M T Dato Tan Chin Nam Bart Cummings AUS122 55.5 Stacelita (FR) Monsun (GER) Soignee (GER) F I T Michael Schwartz Jean Claude Rouget FR122 55.5 Zacinto (GB) Dansili (GB) Ithaca (USA) C M T Mr K. Abdulla Sir Michael Stoute GB121 55 Delegator (GB) Dansili (GB) Indian Love Bird (GB) C M T Godolphin Saeed bin Suroor GB121 55 Musket Man (USA) Yonaguska (USA) Fortuesque (USA) C I D Mr Eric Fein Derek S. Ryan USA121 55 Quality Road (USA) Elusive Quality (USA) Kobla (USA) C I,S D Edward P. Evans Todd A. Pletcher USA121 55 Varenar (FR) Rock of Gibraltar (IRE) Visor (USA) C M T H.H. Aga Khan A. de Royer Dupre FR120 54.5 Gitano Hernando (GB) Hernando (FR) Gino’s Spirits (GB) C M D Team Valor M. Botti GB120 54.5 Le Havre (IRE) Noverre (USA) Marie Rheinberg (GER) C I T Mr G. Augustin-Normand Jean Claude Rouget FR120 54.5 Midday (GB) Oasis Dream (GB) Midsummer (GB) F I T Mr K. Abdulla H. R. A. Cecil GB120 54.5 Sariska (GB) Pivotal (GB) Maycocks Bay (GB) F L T Lady Bamford M. L. W. Bell GB120 54.5 Silver Frost (IRE) Verglas (IRE) Hidden Silver (GB) C M T Mr J. D. Cotton Y. de Nicolay FR120 54.5 Wiener Walzer (GER) Dynaformer (USA) Walzerkoenigin (USA) C L T Gestut Schlenderhan J. Hirschberger GE119 54 Careless Jewel (USA) Tapit (USA) Sweet and Careless (USA) F I,M D Donver Stable Josie Carroll USA119 54 Golden Sword (GB) High Chaparral (IRE) Sitara (GB) C L T Magnier, Tabor & Smith A. P. O’Brien IRE119 54 Masterofthehorse (IRE) Sadler’s Wells (USA) Shouk (GB) C L T Mr Al-Abdulmalik Hassan Miss D. Mountain GB119 54 Shalanaya (IRE) Lomitas (GB) Shalamantika (IRE) F I T H.H. Aga Khan M. Delzangles FR119 54 Zensational (USA) Unbridled’s Song (USA) Joke (USA) R S D Zayat Stables LLC Bob Baffert USA118 53.5 Ghanaati (USA) Giant’s Causeway (USA) Sarayir (USA) F M T Mr Hamdan Al Maktoum B. W. Hills GB118 53.5 Jukebox Jury (IRE) Montjeu (IRE) Mare Aux Fees (GB) C L T Mr A. D. Spence M. Johnston GB118 53.5 Logi Universe (JPN) Neo Universe (JPN) Acoustics (JPN) C L T Masaaki Kumeta Kiyoshi Hagiwara JPN118 53.5 Lord Shanakill (USA) Speightstown (USA) Green Room (USA) C M T Mr Mark T. Gittins Richard E. Mandella USA118 53.5 Total Gallery (IRE) Namid (GB) Diary (IRE) C S T Coleman Bloodstock Limited J. S. Moore GB117 53 Age of Aquarius (IRE) Galileo (IRE) Clara Bow (FR) C L T Magnier, Tabor, Smith ,Mordukhovitch A. P. O’Brien IRE117 53 Alwaary (USA) Dynaformer (USA) Tabrir (IRE) C L T Mr Hamdan Al Maktoum J. H. M. Gosden GB117 53 Art Connoisseur (IRE) Lucky Story (USA) Withorwithoutyou (IRE) C S T Mr R. A. Green M. L. W. Bell GB117 53 Blame (USA) Arch (USA) Liable (USA) C M D Mrs Adele Dilschneider Albert M. Stall USA117 53 Buena Vista (JPN) Special Week (JPN) Biwa Heidi (JPN) F L T Sunday Racing Co Ltd Hiroyoshi Matsuda JPN117 53 Cirrus des Aigles (FR) Even Top (IRE) Taille de Guepe (FR) G L T Mr J. C. A. Dupouy Mrs C. Barbe FR117 53 Daryakana (FR) Selkirk (USA) Daryaba (IRE) F L T H.H. Aga Khan A. de Royer Dupre FR117 53 Dunkirk (USA) Unbridled’s Song (USA) Secret Status (USA) C L D Magnier, Tabor & Smith Todd A. Pletcher USA117 53 Elusive Wave (IRE) Elusive City (USA) Multicolour Wave (IRE) F M T Mr Martin S. Schwartz Jean Claude Rouget FR117 53 Finjaan (GB) Royal Applause (GB) Alhufoof (USA) C M T Mr Hamdan Al Maktoum M. P. Tregoning GB117 53 Fuisse (FR) Green Tune (USA) Funny Feerie (FR) C I T A. Head Mme Head-Maarek FR117 53 Gan Amhras (IRE) Galileo (IRE) All’s Forgotten (USA) C M T Mrs J. S. Bolger J. S. Bolger IRE117 53 I Want Revenge (USA) Stephen Got Even (USA) Meguial (ARG) C M D I.E.A.H. Stables et al Jeff Mullins USA117 53 Mastery (GB) Sulamani (IRE) Moyesii (USA) C E T Godolphin Saeed bin Suroor GB117 53 Mourayan (IRE) Alhaarth (IRE) Mouramara (IRE) C L T H.H. Aga Khan John M. Oxx IRE117 53 Oiseau de Feu (USA) Stravinsky (USA) Slewadora (USA) C M T Mr B. Weill Jean Claude Rouget FR117 53 Starspangledbanner (AUS) Choisir (AUS) Gold Anthem (AUS) C M T B. Spicer Et al Leon Corstens AUS117 53 Sweet Hearth (USA) Touch Gold (USA) Sweet Gold (USA) F M T Investimenti Immobiliari Ri.Ma A. de Royer Dupre FR117 53 Vineyard Haven (USA) Lido Palace (CHI) Princess Aloha (USA) C M D Godolphin Racing LLC Saeed bin Suroor USA

Sprint: up to 6.5f; Mile: 6.5-9.5f; Intermediate: 9.5-10.5f; long: 10.5f-13.5f; Extended: 13.5f

leading three-year-olds: longRating Name Sire

131 Sea The Stars (IRE) Cape Cross (IRE)

128 Fame And Glory (GB) Montjeu (IRE)

125 Cavalryman (GB) Halling (USA)

121 Summer Bird (USA) Birdstone (USA)

120 Sariska (GB) Pivotal (GB)

120 Wiener Walzer (GER) Dynaformer (USA)

119 Golden Sword (GB) High Chaparral (IRE)

119 Masterofthehorse (IRE) Sadler’s Wells (USA)

118 Jukebox Jury (IRE) Montjeu (IRE)

118 Logi Universe (JPN) Neo Universe (JPN)

117 Age of Aquarius (IRE) Galileo (IRE)

117 Alwaary (USA) Dynaformer (USA)

117 Buena Vista (JPN) Special Week (JPN)

117 Cirrus des Aigles (FR) Even Top (IRE)

117 Daryakana (FR) Selkirk (USA)

117 Dunkirk (USA) Unbridled’s Song (USA)

117 Mourayan (IRE) Alhaarth (IRE)

leading three-year-olds: DirtRating Name Sire

127 Rachel Alexandra (USA) Medaglia d’Oro (USA)


122 Mine That Bird (USA) Birdstone (USA)

121 Musket Man (USA) Yonaguska (USA)

121 Quality Road (USA) Elusive Quality (USA)

120 Gitano Hernando (GB) Hernando (FR)

119 Zensational (USA) Unbridled’s Song (USA)

119 Careless Jewel (USA) Tapit (USA)

117 Blame (USA) Arch (USA)

117 I Want Revenge (USA) Stephen Got Even (USA)

117 Vineyard Haven (USA) Lido Palace (CHI)

117 Dunkirk (USA) Unbridled’s Song (USA))

leading three-year-olds: ExtendedRating Name Sire

117 Mastery (GB) Sulamani (IRE)

117 Wajir (FR) Danehill Dancer (IRE)

116 Kite Wood (IRE) Galileo (IRE)

116 Man of Iron (USA) Giant’s Causeway (USA)

115 Three Rolls (JPN) Dance In The Dark (JPN)

against Ballydoyle team-mates, and weren’t best calculated to show his full measure of superiority. still, the handicappers can’t be expected to add pounds for what might have been left in the tank, hence we suspect the comparative rating.

at the end of the day, though it doesn’t really matter. By any standard sea the stars was a magnificent runner, and he’ll become the sea-Bird II of his day – the standard by whom all others will be measured – for many of Generation X.

Top female question answered, in a fashionWhile there was never any doubt that sea the stars would be the world leader, the indentity of the top-ranked female was less certain. america had two true female superstars, Zenyatta and Rachel Alexandra, and Europe the wonderful Goldikova.

once again, comparisons are invidious, extremely difficult to make and really not terribly useful.

Zenyatta, a come-from-behind filly who did all her running last year on all-weather surfaces, was another who probably never

showed the true measure of her superiority over her opponents. Even when she made history in the Breeders’ Cup Classic she crossed the line with her ears pricked, even though she had looked a most unlikely winner turning for home.

Rachel alexandra, who ran on or near the lead, made all eight of her starts on dirt. Undefeated in the course of the year, she was frequently simply astonishing, notably when taking the Kentucky oaks by 20l, winning the mother Goose stakes by over 19l – barely missing a long-standing track-record set by secretariat (a name indeed if we want to talk historical yardsticks) under a hand ride – and when defeating likely champion three-year-old male summer Bird by 6l in the haskell Invitational.

Even when not at her best as in the Preakness, which she won by a length from Kentucky Derby winner mine that Bird, and in the Woodward, where she held off Grade 1-winning older males after being softened up on the front end, she found a way to get the job done.

Goldikova won four of six starts and was particularly memorable when trouncing

Dual winner of the Breeders’ Cup Mile, Goldikova is the highest-rated female since Bosra Sham



WoRlD RANkINgS: leading three-year-olds (...continued)

Rating kgs Name Sire Dam Sex Distance Surface owner Trainer Country117 53 Vineyard Haven (USA) Lido Palace (CHI) Princess Aloha (USA) C M D Godolphin Racing LLC Saeed bin Suroor USA117 53 Wajir (FR) Danehill Dancer (IRE) War Game (FR) C E T Ecurie Wildenstein E. Lellouche FR116 52.5 Antara (GER) Platini (GER) Auenpracht (GER) F I T Mr T. Gehrig R. Dzubasz GER116 52.5 Board Meeting (IRE) Anabaa (USA) Bright Moon (USA) F I T Ecurie Wildenstein E. Lellouche FR116 52.5 Capt Candyman Can (USA) Candy Ride (ARG) Stormy Way (USA) G S D J. Rauch & David Zell Ian R. Wilkes USA116 52.5 Gozzip Girl (USA) Dynaformer (USA) Temperence Gift (USA) F I T Farnsworth Stables LLC Thomas Albertrani USA116 52.5 Hold Me Back (USA) Giant’s Causeway (USA) Restraint (USA) C I D WinStar Farm LLC William I. Mott USA116 52.5 Irian (GER) Tertullian (USA) Iberi (GER) C M T Gestut Schlenderhan J. Hirschberger GER116 52.5 Kite Wood (IRE) Galileo (IRE) Kite Mark (GB) C E,L T Godolphin Saeed bin Suroor GB116 52.5 Lahaleeb (IRE) Redback (GB) Flames (GB) F I T Al-Qatami & Al-Mudhaf M. R. Channon GB116 52.5 Manhattan Rain (AUS) Encosta de Lago (AUS) Shantha’s Choice (AUS) C I T Teeley Assets Ltd Synd Gai Waterhouse AUS116 52.5 Man of Iron (USA) Giant’s Causeway (USA) Better Than Honour (USA) C E D Magnier, Tabor & Smith A. P. O’Brien IRE116 52.5 Monaco Consul (NZ) High Chaparral (IRE) Argante (NZ) C L T G G Syndicate Ltd Michael Moroney AUS116 52.5 Monitor Closely (IRE) Oasis Dream (GB) Independence (GB) C L T Mr Lawrie Inman P. W. Chapple-Hyam GB116 52.5 Munnings (USA) Speightstown (USA) La Comete (USA) C S D Magnier, Tabor & Smith Todd A. Pletcher USA116 52.5 Rainbow View (USA) Dynaformer (USA) No Matter What (USA) F M T Mr George Strawbridge J. H. M. Gosden GB116 52.5 Tamazirte (IRE) Danehill Dancer (IRE) Tanami Desert (GB) F M T Ecurie La Vallee Martigny Jean Claude Rouget FR116 52.5 Turati (GB) Lomitas (GB) Torrigiana (GB) C I T Allevamento La Nuova Sbarra Giorgio Pucciatti ITY116 52.5 Unrivaled (JPN) Neo Universe (JPN) Ballet Queen (IRE) C I T Sunday Racing Co Ltd Yasuo Tomomichi JPN116 52.5 The Usual Q T (USA) Unusual Heat (USA) Lunge (USA) G I T Don Van Racing James M. Cassidy USA116 52.5 Wanted (AUS) Fastnet Rock (AUS) Fragmentation (AUS) C S T Hayson Bloodstock Syndicate Peter G. Moody AUS115 52 Ashalanda (FR) Linamix (FR) Ashaninka (USA) F L T H.H. Aga Khan A. de Royer Dupre FR115 52 Denman (AUS) Lonhro (AUS) Peach (AUS) C M T Sheikh Mohammed P. Snowden AUS115 52 Father Time (GB) Dansili (GB) Clepsydra (GB) C L T Mr K. Abdulla H. R. A. Cecil GB115 52 Flying Private (USA) Fusaichi Pegasus (USA) Beautiful Treasure (USA) C I D R. C. Baker D. Wayne Lukas USA115 52 Forgettable (JPN) Dance In The Dark (JPN) Air Groove (JPN) C L T Kaneko Makoto Holdings Co Ltd Yasuo Ikee JPN115 52 Friesan Fire (USA) A P Indy (USA) Bollinger (AUS) C M D Vinery Stables & Fox Hill Farm J. Larry Jones USA115 52 Girolamo (USA) A P Indy (USA) Get Lucky (USA) C M D Godolphin Racing LLC Saeed bin Suroor USA115 52 High Heeled (IRE) High Chaparral (IRE) Uncharted Haven (GB) F L T Mr and Mrs Steven Jenkins B. W. Hills GB115 52 Hot Cha Cha (USA) Cactus Ridge (USA) Reduced Sentence (USA) F M T Nelson McMakin Philip A. Sims USA115 52 Old Fashioned (USA) Unbridled’s Song (USA) Collect Call (USA) C M D Fox Hill Farms J. Larry Jones USA115 52 Phelan Ready (AUS) More Than Ready (USA) Nancy Eleanor (AUS) G S T Rembrandts Racing Syndicate J. McLachlan AUS115 52 Pioneerof the Nile (USA) Empire Maker (USA) Star of Goshen (USA) C M D Zayat Stables LLC Bob Baffert USA115 52 Red Desire (JPN) Manhattan Cafe (JPN) Great Sunrise (GB) F L T Tokyo Horseracing Co Ltd M. Matsunaga JPN115 52 Sayif (IRE) Kheleyf (USA) Sewards Folly (GB) C S T Saleh Al Homaizi & Al Sagar P. W. Chapple-Hyam GB115 52 Stardom Bound (USA) Tapit (USA) My White Corvette (USA) F M D I.E.A.H. Stables et al J. Rodriguez USA115 52 Take The Points (USA) Even the Score (USA) Ginger Ginger (USA) C M T Starlight Partners Todd A. Pletcher USA115 52 Three Rolls (JPN) Dance In The Dark (JPN) Three Roman (JPN) C E T Nagai Shoji Kohei Take JPN115 52 Zafisio (IRE) Efisio (GB) Goldthroat (IRE) C I T H. Downs & D. Looney R. Curtis GB

leading three-year-olds: SprintRating Name Sire


119 Zensational (USA) Unbridled’s Song (USA)

118 Total Gallery (IRE) Namid (GB)

117 Art Connoisseur (IRE) Lucky Story (USA)

116 Capt Candyman Can (USA) Candy Ride (ARG)

116 Munnings (USA) Speightstown (USA)

116 Wanted (AUS) Fastnet Rock (AUS)

115 Phelan Ready (AUS) More Than Ready (USA)

115 Sayif (IRE) Kheleyf (USA)

aqlaam and other good males by 6l in the Prix Jacques le marois – an effort described by the Racing Post as “one of greatest miling performances of the modern era” – and when coming from almost last to take a second Breeders’ Cup mile in a time just a fraction outside of the course record.

In the end, they all received due recognition. Goldikova (130) – the highest weighted older horse, female and miler of the year – was also the highest-rated female since Bosra Sham, and the first of her sex to be leading older horse since another two-time Breeders’ Cup mile heroine, miesque.

For 2010 she returns to the care of

Freddie head, coincidentally the regular rider for miesque, to attempt an historic Breeders’ Cup three-timer.

Zenyatta (128) was the highest Us-trained runner, rated just a pound above the three-year-old Rachel alexandra. Zenyatta was also reckoned to be the best US filly since horses trained in the country were included in the ratings in 1995.

Rachel, the top three-year-old in the Us, is 4lb above summer Bird – winner of the Bemont, and travers stakes and Jockey Club Gold Cup – and is rated the best three-year-old filly since Bosra Sham.

like Zenyatta, Rachel alexandra will stay





leading three-year-olds: InternediateRating Name Sire

136 Sea The Stars (IRE) Cape Cross (IRE)

129 Rip Van Winkle (IRE) Galileo (IRE)

128 Fame And Glory (GB) Montjeu (IRE)

124 Mastercraftsman (IRE) Danehill Dancer (IRE)


122 Mine That Bird (USA) Birdstone (USA)

122 So You Think (NZ) High Chaparral (IRE)

122 Stacelita (FR) Monsun (GER)

121 Musket Man (USA) Yonaguska (USA)


120 Le Havre (IRE) Noverre (USA)

120 Midday (GB) Oasis Dream (GB)


119 Shalanaya (IRE) Lomitas (GB)

leading three-year-olds: MileRating Name Sire

129 Rip Van Winkle (IRE) Galileo (IRE)



122 Courageous Cat (USA) Storm Cat (USA)

122 So You Think (NZ) High Chaparral (IRE)

122 Zacinto (GB) Dansili (GB)

121 Delegator (GB) Dansili (GB)

121 Delegator (GB) Dansili (GB)

121 Varenar (FR) Rock of Gibraltar (IRE)

120 Gitano Hernando (GB) Hernando (FR)

120 Silver Frost (IRE) Verglas (IRE)


118 Ghanaati (USA) Giant’s Causeway (USA)

118 Lord Shanakill (USA) Speightstown (USA)

118 Lord Shanakill (USA) Speightstown (USA

in training, and as the next two three-year-olds on the list, Rip Van Winkle and Fame And Glory, as well as the Us-Classic winning males Summer Bird and Mine That Bird, are remaining in training too, we should have a lot to look forward to next year.

Sprint kingsamong the specialists, a pair of australian-breds tied for top of the turf sprint standings.

Sacred Kingdom, who is by the Fairy King horse Encosta de lago (a reverse shuttler to Coolmore in 2007 where he covered a limited book of mares), plied his trade in hong Kong where he defeated an eclectic field for the International Sprint.

Scenic Blast, a colt by the sadler’s Wells Dewhurst stakes dead-heater scenic – a better sire in australian than in Ireland – gave Royal ascot racegoers another sample of sprint thunder from Down Under with a score in the King’s stand stakes.

the veteran, Fabulous Strike (smart strike) with Kodiak Kowboy (by Posse, a son of Deputy minister) were the joint top-rated sprinters on dirt.

It comes as no surprise that the long-distance division – completely devoid of Us

runners – was headed by the remarkable Yeats, although it was surprising to read elsewhere that this is the first time he’s been rated a clear leader.

Australia and Japan are producing qualitymention of sacred Kingdom and scenic Blast reminds us that more than 40 australian-breds made the list meaning that the country is becoming a very serious supplier of world-class thoroughbreds, predominantly, but not exclusively in the sprint division.

the sires of these horses are pretty well-distributed through shuttle horses, full-time imports, first generation sons of shuttle horses, and older established australian lines. We suspect that this does indicate, Danehill apart, that no one shuttle horse has been a dominant influence, and the practice has been a factor in the the overall upgrading of the domestic breed.

a couple of the australian horses were by Japanese-bred sons of sunday silence and several horses bred in Japan were rated alongside western-bred Group and Grade 1 winners, the top-two horses bred there being Company (by miracle admire, a son of tony Bin, out of a sadler’s Wells mare and from the family of Conduit) and Dream Journey.

“More than 40 Australian-breds made the list meaning that the country is becoming a very serious supplier of world-class thoroughbreds, predominantly, but not exclusively in the sprint division

“

Mr Invincible: the top stayer Yeats is led away after Royal Ascot win number four



STAllIoNS: with two or more representatives in the World Rankings

Stallion Number Representatives Galileo (IRE) 7 Red Rocks, Purple Moon, Kite Wood, Gan Amhras, Age of Aquarius, Alandi, Rip Van WinkleA P Indy (USA) 6 Telling, Marchfield, Girolamo, Friesan Fire, Just As Well, Music NoteGiant’s Causeway (USA) 6 Swift Temper, Our Giant, Man Of Iron, Hold Me Back, Cowboy Cal, GhanaatiDanehill Dancer (IRE) 5 Light Fantastic, Tamazirte, Wajir, One World, Mastercraftsman, Dynaformer (USA) 5 Dynaforce, Rainbow View , Gozzip Girl, Alwaary, Wiener WalzerHigh Chaparral (IRE) 5 Magadan, High Heeled, Monaco Consul, Golden Sword, So You ThinkKingmambo (USA) 5 Thewayyouare, Campanologist, Alexandros, Faridat, ArchipenkoOasis Dream (GB) 5 Visit, Monitor Closely, Main Aim, Midday, AqlaamSadler’s Wells (USA) 5 Doctor Fremantle, Curtain Call, Masterofthehorse, Ask, YeatsDansili (GB) 4 Father Time, Famous Name, Delegator, Zacinto Encosta de Lago (AUS) 4 Road To Rock, Manhattan Rain, Racing To Win, Sacred KingdomO’Reilly (NZ) 4 Master O’Reilly, Vigor, Alamosa, FellowshipPivotal (GB) 4 Virtual, Poet, Regal Parade, SariskaStreet Cry (IRE) 4 Seventh Street, Predatory Pricer, Whobegotyou, ZenyattaUnbridled’s Song (USA) 4 Thorn Song, Old Fashioned, Dunkirk, ZensationalZabeel (NZ) 4 Packing Winner, Fiumicino, Maldivian, EfficientAnabaa (USA) 3 Board Meeting, Loup Breton, GoldikovaHernando (FR) 3 Look Here, Gitano Hernando, Casual ConquestLomitas (GB) 3 Veracity, Turati, Shalanaya Monsun (GER) 3 Schiaparell, Stacelita, GetawayMontjeu (IRE) 3 Roman Emperor, Jukebox Jury, Fame And GloryRock of Gibraltar (IRE) 3 Starlish, Diamondrella, Varenar Scenic (GB) 3 Scenic Shot, Viewed, Scenic BlastSelkirk (USA) 3 Selmis, Daryakana, Pipedreamer Storm Cat (USA) 3 Mr Sidney, Life Is Sweet, Courageous Cat Tiznow (USA) 3 Bullsbay, Colonel John, Well ArmedBelong To Me (USA) 2 Forever Together, All Silent Birdstone (USA) 2 Summer Bird, Mine That Bird Black Minnaloushe (USA) 2 Black Mamba, Dancing In SilksCape Cross (IRE) 2 Sea The Stars, Mac LoveChester House (USA) 2 Spring House, VenturaDalakhani (IRE) 2 Duncan, ConduitDance In The Dark (JPN) 2 Three Rolls, ForgettableDanehill (USA) 2 Zipping, Champs ElyseesDanzero (AUS) 2 Niconero, Happy ZeroDistorted Humor (USA) 2 Commentator, JustenuffhumorEmpire Maker (USA) 2 Pioneerof the Nile, Icon ProjectFantastic Light (USA) 2 Scintillo, Flamingo Fantasy Grass Wonder (USA) 2 Sakura Mega Wonder, Screen HeroHalling (USA) 2 Coastal Path, CavalrymanJallad (USA) 2 Russian Sage, KapilJet Master (SAF) 2 J J The Jet Plane, Pocket PowerJungle Pocket (JPN) 2 Jaguar Mail, Oken Bruce LeeLemon Drop Kid (USA) 2 Richard’s Kid, Bronze CannonLinamix (FR) 2 Ashalanda, Alpine RoseMarju (IRE) 2 Chinchon, Viva PatacaMujahid (USA) 2 Balius, DanleighNeo Universe (JPN) 2 Unrivaled, Logi UniversePeintre Celebre (USA) 2 Trincot, CollectionPulpit (USA) 2 Pyro, ParadingRed Ransom (USA) 2 Duporth, Typhoon TracySingspiel (IRE) 2 Eastern Anthem, Dar Re MiSmart Strike (CAN) 2 Furthest Land, Fabulous StrikeSoviet Star (USA) 2 Buccellati, PressingSpeightstown (USA) 2 Munnings, Lord ShanakillStravinsky (USA) 2 Benbaun, Oiseau de FeuSunday Silence (USA) 2 Air Shady, Matsurida GoghTapit (USA) 2 Stardom Bound, Careless JewelUnusual Heat (USA) 2 Lethal Heat, The Usual Q

Scenic Blast ahead of his success at Royal Ascot. The Australian sprinting division is

going from strength to strength



Dream Journey is by stay Gold (by sunday silence, who achieved as much in raising standards in Japan as a platoon of shuttle sires did in australia) and is inbred 4 x 3 to northern taste, who himself is inbred 3 x 2 to lady angela, the dam of northern Dancer’s sire, nearctic.

Wider representationCountries – other than the Us, England,

leading older horses: lntermediateRating Name Sire

128 Zenyatta (USA) Street Cry (IRE)

125 Gio Ponti (USA) Tale of The Cat (USA)

124 Well Armed (USA) Tiznow (USA)

123 Twice Over (GB) Observatory (USA)

123 Vision d’Etat (FR) Chichicastenango (FR)

122 Company (JPN) Miracle Admire (JPN)

121 Casual Conquest (IRE) Hernando (FR)

121 Mawatheeq (USA) Danzig (USA)

121 Pocket Power (SAF) Jet Master (SAF)

leading older horses: longRating Name Sire

125 Conduit (IRE) Dalakhani (IRE)125 Youmzain (IRE) Sinndar (IRE)123 Presious Passion (USA) Royal Anthem (USA)122 Dream Journey (JPN) Stay Gold (JPN)122 Getaway (GER) Monsun (GER)122 Tartan Bearer (IRE) Spectrum (IRE)122 Viewed (AUS) Scenic (IRE)121 Ask (GB) Sadler’s Wells (USA)121 Oken Bruce Lee (JPN) Jungle Pocket (JPN)

leading older horses: ExtendedRating Name Sire

122 Yeats (IRE) Sadler’s Wells (USA)

119 Alandi (IRE) Galileo (IRE)

118 Kasbah Bliss (FR) Kahyasi (IRE)

117 Geordieland (FR) Johann Quatz (FR)

117 Meiner Kitz (JPN) Chief Bearhart (CAN)

117 Patkai (IRE) Indian Ridge (IRE)

117 Schiaparelli (GER) Monsun (GER)

116 Al Nasrain (JPN) Admire Vega (JPN)

116 Veracity (GB) Lomitas (GB)

115 Asakusa Kings (JPN) White Muzzle (GB)

115 Bannaby (FR) Dyhim Diamond (IRE)

115 Cloudy’s Knight (USA) Lord Avie (USA)

115 Master O’Reilly (NZ) O’Reilly (NZ)

115 Midships (USA) Mizzen Mast (USA)

115 Mourilyan (IRE) Desert Prince (IRE)

leading older horses: MileRating Name Sire

130 Goldikova (IRE) Anabaa (USA)

128 Zenyatta (USA) Street Cry (IRE)

125 Gladiatorus (USA) Silic (FR)

124 Paco Boy (IRE) Desert Style (IRE)

122 Good Ba Ba (USA) Lear Fan (USA)

120 Aqlaam (GB) Oasis Dream (GB)

120 Court Vision (USA) Gulch (USA)

120 Justenuffhumor (USA) Distorted Humor (USA)

120 Viva Pataca (GB) Marju (IRE)

120 Vodka (JPN) Tanino Gimlet (JPN)

120 Whobegotyou (AUS) Street Cry (IRE)

120 Dar Re Mi (GB) Singspiel (IRE)

120 Spanish Moon (USA) El Prado (IRE)

leading older horses: SprinterRating Name Sire

122 Sacred Kingdom (AUS) Encosta de Lago (AUS)

122 Scenic Blast (AUS) Scenic (IRE)

121 Rocket Man (AUS) Viscount (AUS)

120 Fabulous Strike (USA) Smart Strike (CAN)

120 Kodiak Kowboy (USA) Posse (USA)

119 All Silent (AUS) Belong To Me (USA)

119 Apache Cat (AUS) Lion Cavern (USA)

119 Big City Man (USA) Northern Afleet (USA)

119 Happy Zero (AUS) Danzero (AUS)

119 Takeover Target (AUS) Celtic Swing (GB)

Ireland, France, australia and Japan – with representatives in the 120 and up bracket are Germany, Brazil and new Zealand, while horses bred in south africa, Canada, Zimbabwe and argentina also make the table. this broadening international representation is in part facilitated by the compression in the breed, the reducing gap between the best and the rest.

Sire power reducedthere is also a dwindling number of really dominant sires. the best represented stallion is Galileo with seven followed by a.P. Indy, who sets the standard for Us middle-distance performers on dirt and Giant’s Causeway, whose offspring win on all surfaces.

Danehill Dancer, Dynaformer and high Chaparral, who is doing very well in new Zealand, as well as the veterans Kingmambo and sadler’s Wells, and the up-and-comers Oasis Dream and Dansili are all on five.

the degree of northern Dancer representation among the leading stallions by number of horses rated probably comes as no surprise by now – 13 of the top 20, while 18 of the 26 horses with three or more on the table are from the line.

the branches are sadler’s Wells via sadler’s Wells himself, as well as via Galileo, high Chaparral, montjeu and scenic; the old man storm Cat and Giant’s Causeway; Danzig through Danehill Dancer, Dansili, Rock of Gibraltar from the Danehill branch,

as well as anabaa and Belong to me; nijinsky through niniski’s sons, hernando and lomitas; Fairy King (Encosta de lago); nureyev (Pivotal) and try my Best through o’Reilly, a son of last tycoon.

mr. Prospector is represented by street Cry (machiavellian), a true world-sire, Kingmambo and Unbridled’s song.

the other sires with three or more horses are tiznow (Unbridled’s song), Dynaformer (Roberto), Zabeel (sir tristram, who was by sir Ivor), monsun (surumu) and selkirk (sharpen Up).

“This broadening international representation is in part facilitated by the compression in the breed, the reducing gap between the best and the rest

“



WoRlD RANkINgS: leading older horses 130-116 (continued over)

Rating kgs Name Sire Dam Sex Distance Surface owner Trainer Country130 59 Goldikova (IRE) Anabaa (USA) Born Gold (USA) F M T Wertheimer et Frere F. Head FR128 58 Zenyatta (USA) Street Cry (IRE) Vertigineux (USA) M I,M D Mr and Mrs J. S. Moss John A. Shirreffs USA125 56.5 Conduit (IRE) Dalakhani (IRE) Well Head (IRE) C L T Ballymacoll Stud Sir Michael Stoute GB125 56.5 Gio Ponti (USA) Tale of The Cat (USA) Chipeta Springs (USA) C I D C. Lyons Christophe Clement USA125 56.5 Gladiatorus (USA) Silic (FR) Gmaasha (IRE) C M T Godolphin Saeed bin Suroor GB125 56.5 Youmzain (IRE) Sinndar (IRE) Sadima (IRE) H L T Mr Jaber Abdullah M. R. Channon GB124 56 Paco Boy (IRE) Desert Style (IRE) Tappen Zee (IRE) C M T The Calvera Partnership No 2 R. Hannon GB124 56 Well Armed (USA) Tiznow (USA) Well Dressed (USA) G I D WinStar Farm LLC Eoin Harty USA123 55.5 Presious Passion (USA) Royal Anthem (USA) Princesa’s Passion (USA) G L T Patricia A. Generazio Mary Hartmann USA123 55.5 Twice Over (GB) Observatory (USA) Double Crossed (GB) C I D Mr K. Abdulla H. R. A. Cecil GB123 55.5 Vision d’Etat (FR) Chichicastenango (FR) Uberaba (FR) C I T Mr J. Detre E. Libaud FR122 55.5 Company (JPN) Miracle Admire (JPN) Brilliant Very (JPN) H I T Hideko Kondo H. Otonashi JPN122 55.5 Dream Journey (JPN) Stay Gold (JPN) Oriental Art (JPN) H L T Sunday Racing Co Ltd Yasutoshi Ikee JPN122 55.5 Getaway (GER) Monsun (GER) Guernica (GB) H L T Baron G. von Ullmann J. Hirschberger GER122 55.5 Good Ba Ba (USA) Lear Fan (USA) Elle Meme (USA) G M T John Yuen Se Kit D. Cruz HK122 55.5 Sacred Kingdom (AUS) Encosta de Lago (AUS) Courtroom Sweetie (AUS) G S T Sin Kang Yuk P. F. Yiu HK122 55.5 Scenic Blast (AUS) Scenic (IRE) Daughter’s Charm (AUS) G S T Elio Anthony Galante & Partners D. Morton AUS122 55.5 Tartan Bearer (IRE) Spectrum (IRE) Highland Gift (IRE) C L T Ballymacoll Stud Sir Michael Stoute GB122 55.5 Viewed (AUS) Scenic (IRE) Lovers Knot (NZ) H L T Dato Tan Chin Nam Bart Cummings AUS122 55.5 Yeats (IRE) Sadler’s Wells (USA) Lyndonville (IRE) H E T Mrs Magnier & Mrs David Nagle A. P. O’Brien IRE121 55 Ask (GB) Sadler’s Wells (USA) Request (GB) H L T Mr Patrick J. Fahey Sir Michael Stoute GB121 55 Casual Conquest (IRE) Hernando (FR) Lady Luck (IRE) G I T Moyglare Stud Farms Ltd D. K. Weld IRE121 55 Mawatheeq (USA) Danzig (USA) Sarayir (USA) C I T Mr Hamdan Al Maktoum M. P. Tregoning GB121 55 Oken Bruce Lee (JPN) Jungle Pocket (JPN) Silver Joy (CAN) C L T Mr A. Fukui H. Otonashi JPN121 55 Pocket Power (SAF) Jet Master (SAF) Stormsvlei (SAF) G I T N. M. Shirtliff & Mrs Webber M. W. Bass SAF121 55 Rocket Man (AUS) Viscount (AUS) Macrosa (NZ) G S T A. L. A. Crabbia Patrick Shaw SIN120 54.5 Aqlaam (GB) Oasis Dream (GB) Bourbonella (GB) C M T Mr Hamdan Al Maktoum W. J. Haggas GB120 54.5 Collection (IRE) Peintre Celebre (USA) Lasting Chance (USA) G I T John Moore Syndicate J. Moore HK120 54.5 Court Vision (USA) Gulch (USA) Weekend Storm (USA) C M T IEAH Stables & WinStar Farm Richard E. Dutrow USA120 54.5 Dar Re Mi (GB) Singspiel (IRE) Darara (IRE) F L T Lord Lloyd-Webber J. H. M. Gosden GB120 54.5 Deep Sky (JPN) Agnes Tachyon (JPN) Abi (GB) C I T T. Fukami Mitsugu Kon JPN120 54.5 Einstein (BRZ) Spend A Buck (USA) Gay Charm (BRZ) H I D Stronach Stable Helen Pitts USA120 54.5 Fabulous Strike (USA) Smart Strike (CAN) Fabulous Find (USA) G S D Mr W. Downey Todd M. Beattie USA120 54.5 Gloria de Campeao (BRZ) Impression (ARG) Audacity (BRZ) H I T Mr Stefan Friborg P. Bary FR120 54.5 Justenuffhumor (USA) Distorted Humor (USA) Justenuffheart (USA) C M T Godolphin Racing LLC Kiaran McLaughlin USA120 54.5 Kodiak Kowboy (USA) Posse (USA) Kokadrie (USA) C S D Vinery Stables & Fox Hill Farm Steven Asmussen USA120 54.5 Never On Sunday (FR) Sunday Break (JPN) Hexane (FR) C I T D. Treves Jean Claude Rouget FR120 54.5 Presvis (GB) Sakhee (USA) Forest Fire (SWE) G I T Mr L. Marinopoulos L. M. Cumani GB120 54.5 Spanish Moon (USA) El Prado (IRE) Shining Bright (GB) H L T Mr K. Abdulla Sir Michael Stoute GB120 54.5 Viva Pataca (GB) Marju (IRE) Comic (IRE) G M T Stanley Ho Hung Sun J. Moore HK120 54.5 Vodka (JPN) Tanino Gimlet (JPN) Tanino Sister (JPN) M M T Y. Tanimizu Katsuhiko Sumii JPN120 54.5 Whobegotyou (AUS) Street Cry (IRE) Temple of Peace (JPN) G I,M T Mr L. Eales Mark Kavanagh AUS119 54 Alandi (IRE) Galileo (IRE) Aliya (IRE) C E T H.H. Aga Khan John M. Oxx IRE119 54 Albertus Maximus (USA) Albert the Great (USA) Chasethewildwind (USA) H M D Shadwell Stable Kiaran P. McLaughlin USA119 54 All Silent (AUS) Belong To Me (USA) Lisheenowen (AUS) G S T Neville Begg & Partners Syn Graham Begg AUS119 54 Apache Cat (AUS) Lion Cavern (USA) Tennessee Blaze (AUS) G S T P. F. Radford et al Greg Eurell AUS119 54 Big City Man (USA) Northern Afleet (USA) Mini Appeal (USA) C S D Prince Sultan al Kabeer J. Barton UAE119 54 Bronze Cannon (USA) Lemon Drop Kid (USA) Victoria Cross (IRE) C L T Mr Ramzan Kadyrov J. H. M. Gosden GB119 54 Champs Elysees (GB) Danehill (USA) Hasili (IRE) H L T Juddmonte Farms Inc Robert J. Frankel USA119 54 Colonel John (USA) Tiznow (USA) Sweet Damsel (USA) C I,M D WinStar Farm LLC Eoin Harty USA119 54 Egyptian Ra (NZ) Woodborough (USA) Egyptian Queen (NZ) G M T Cheng Keung Fai A. S. Cruz HK119 54 Happy Zero (AUS) Danzero (AUS) Have Love (AUS) G S T Mr David Philip Boehm J. Moore HK119 54 Life Is Sweet (USA) Storm Cat (USA) Sweet Life (USA) F M D Mr and Mrs Martin J Wygod John A. Shirreffs USA119 54 Macho Again (USA) Macho Uno (USA) Go Donna Go (USA) C M D West Point Thoroughbreds Dallas Stewart USA



WoRlD RANkINgS: leading older horses 130-116 (...continued)

Rating kgs Name Sire Dam Sex Distance Surface owner Trainer Country119 54 Matsurida Gogh (JPN) Sunday Silence (USA) Paper Rain (USA) H L T F. Takahashi Sakae Kunieda JPN119 54 Quijano (GER) Acatenango (GER) Quila (IRE) G L T Gestut Fahrhof P. Schiergen GER119 54 Richard’s Kid (USA) Lemon Drop Kid (USA) Tough Broad (USA) C I D Arnold Zetcher Bob Baffert USA119 54 Screen Hero (JPN) Grass Wonder (USA) Running Heroine (JPN) H I T Mr Teruya Yoshida Yuichi Shikato JPN119 54 Takeover Target (AUS) Celtic Swing (GB) Shady Stream (AUS) G S T Messrs J. & B. Janiak Joe Janiak AUS118 53.5 Archipenko (USA) Kingmambo (USA) Bound (USA) H M T Sheikh Mohammed M. F. de Kock UAE118 53.5 California Flag (USA) Avenue of Flags (USA) Ultrafleet (USA) G S T Hi Card Ranch Brian J. Koriner USA118 53.5 Cesare (GB) Machiavellian (USA) Tromond (GB) G M T Cheveley Park Stud J. R. Fanshawe GB118 53.5 Efficient (NZ) Zabeel (NZ) Refused The Dance (NZ) G I T Mr & Mrs L. J. Williams Et al John D. Sadler AUS118 53.5 Espoir City (JPN) Gold Allure (JPN) Eminent City (JPN) C M D Yushun Horse Akio Adachi JPN118 53.5 Fellowship (NZ) O’Reilly (NZ) Mystical Flight (NZ) G M T David Sin Wai Kin P. O’Sullivan HK118 53.5 Fleeting Spirit (IRE) Invincible Spirit (IRE) Millennium Tale (FR) F S T The Searchers J. Noseda GB118 53.5 Heart of Dreams (AUS) Show A Heart (AUS) Academy Of Dreams (AUS) G I,M T L. Bartle Et al Mick Price AUS118 53.5 Icon Project (USA) Empire Maker (USA) La Gueriere (USA) F I D Mr Andrew Rosen Martin D. Wolfson USA118 53.5 Informed Decision (USA) Monarchos (USA) Palangana (USA) F S D Augustin Stable Jonathan E. Sheppard USA118 53.5 Jaguar Mail (JPN) Jungle Pocket (JPN) Haya Beni Komachi (JPN) H L T Ms Kazumi Yoshida N. Hori JPN118 53.5 Kasbah Bliss (FR) Kahyasi (IRE) Marital Bliss (FR) G E,L T Mr Henri de Pracomtal F. Doumen FR118 53.5 Kingsgate Native (IRE) Mujadil (USA) Native Force (IRE) G S T Cheveley Park Stud Sir Michael Stoute GB118 53.5 Maldivian (NZ) Zabeel (NZ) Shynzi (USA) G I,M T Paksian Racing Syndicate Mark Kavanagh AUS118 53.5 Music Note (USA) A P Indy (USA) Note Musicale (GB) F M,S D Godolphin Racing LLC Saeed bin Suroor USA118 53.5 One World (AUS) Danehill Dancer (IRE) River Serenade (AUS) H S T Jackson So Hoi Wing J. Moore HK118 53.5 Pipedreamer (GB) Selkirk (USA) Follow A Dream (USA) H I T Cheveley Park Stud J. H. M. Gosden GB118 53.5 Pure Clan (USA) Pure Prize (USA) Gather The Clan (IRE) F I T Lewis G. Lakin Robert E. Holthus USA118 53.5 Racing To Win (AUS) Encosta de Lago (AUS) Surrealist (AUS) G M T T. K. Stuckey & Mrs P. Yan John O’Shea AUS118 53.5 Regal Parade (GB) Pivotal (GB) Model Queen (USA) G S T Dab Hand Racing D. Nicholls GB118 53.5 Sahpresa (USA) Sahm (USA) Sorpresa (USA) F M T Mr D. O. McIntyre Rod Collet FR118 53.5 Sakura Mega Wonder (JPN) Grass Wonder (USA) Sakura Mega (JPN) H L T Sakura Commers Yasuo Tomomichi JPN118 53.5 Scenic Shot (AUS) Scenic (IRE) Sweepshot (AUS) G I T D. L. Morton Et al D. Morton AUS118 53.5 Trincot (FR) Peintre Celebre (USA) Royal Lights (FR) C I T Ecurie Bader P. H. Demercastel FR118 53.5 Trincot (FR) Peintre Celebre (USA) Royal Lights (FR) C I T Godolphin Saeed bin Suroor GB118 53.5 Typhoon Tracy (AUS) Red Ransom (USA) Tracy’s Element (AUS) F M T Hutchins Thoroughbreds Syn Peter G. Moody AUS118 53.5 Ventura (USA) Chester House (USA) Estala (GB) M M,S T Juddmonte Farms Inc Humberto Ascanio USA117 53 Adlerflug (GER) In The Wings (GB) Aiyana (GER) H I T Gestut Schlenderhan J. Hirschberger GER117 53 Alamosa (NZ) O’Reilly (NZ) Lodore Mystic (NZ) H M T Wellfield Alamosa Syndicate Mick Price AUS117 53 Asiatic Boy (ARG) Not For Sale (ARG) S S Asiatic (USA) H I,M D Sheikh Mohammed Kiaran P. McLaughlin USA117 53 City Leader (IRE) Fasliyev (USA) Kanmary (FR) C I T Roldvale Ltd,Sangster&AK Collins B. J. Meehan GB117 53 Cowboy Cal (USA) Giant’s Causeway (USA) Texas Tammy (USA) C M T Mr R. C. McNair Todd A. Pletcher USA117 53 Danleigh (AUS) Mujahid (USA) Graceful Lily (AUS) G M,S T K. E. & Mrs R. P. Leonard C. Waller AUS117 53 Duncan (GB) Dalakhani (IRE) Dolores (GB) C L T Normandie Stud Ltd J. H. M. Gosden GB117 53 Eastern Anthem (IRE) Singspiel (IRE) Kazzia (GER) H L T Godolphin Saeed bin Suroor GB117 53 Famous Name (GB) Dansili (GB) Fame At Last (USA) C I T Mr K. Abdulla D. K. Weld IRE117 53 Famous Name (GB) Dansili (GB) Fame At Last (USA) C M T Mr K. Abdulla D. K. Weld IRE117 53 Faridat (USA) Kingmambo (USA) Believe (JPN) C M T Mr K. Maeda Shigeki Matsumoto JPN117 53 Forever Together (USA) Belong To Me (USA) Constant Companion (USA) M M T Augustin Stable Jonathan E. Sheppard USA117 53 Geordieland (FR) Johann Quatz (FR) Aerdee (FR) H E T Mountgrange Stud J. A. Osborne GB117 53 Grand Couturier (GB) Grand Lodge (USA) Lady Elgar (IRE) H L T Marc Keller Robert Ribaudo USA117 53 Gris de Gris (IRE) Slickly (FR) Deesse Grise (FR) H I T Mr J. C. Seroul A. de Royer Dupre FR117 53 J J The Jet Plane (SAF) Jet Master (SAF) Majestic Guest (SAF) G S T JJ The Jet Plane Syndicate R. Hannon GB117 53 Joy And Fun (NZ) Cullen (AUS) Gin Player (NZ) G S T Mr & Mrs Johnny Wong Chun Nam D. Cruz HK117 53 Kip Deville (USA) Kipling (USA) Klondike Kaytie (USA) H M T I.E.A.H. Stables et al Richard E. Dutrow Jr USA117 53 Loup Breton (IRE) Anabaa (USA) Louve (USA) H I T Ecurie Wildenstein Julio C. Canani USA117 53 Lucky Secret (AUS) Rubiton (AUS) Won’t Tell (AUS) G S T J. Vasil Et al Tony Vasil AUS117 53 Main Aim (GB) Oasis Dream (GB) Orford Ness (GB) C S T Mr K. Abdulla Sir Michael Stoute GB117 53 Marsh Side (USA) Gone West (USA) Colonial Play (USA) H L T R. S. Evans N. Drysdale USA



WoRlD RANkINgS: leading older horses 130-116 (...continued)

Rating kgs Name Sire Dam Sex Distance Surface owner Trainer Country1117 53 Marsh Side (USA) Gone West (USA) Colonial Play (USA) H L T R. S. Evans N. Drysdale USA117 53 Meiner Kitz (JPN) Chief Bearhart (CAN) Takara Kanna (JPN) H E T K. Thoroughbred Club Ruffian Sakae Kunieda JPN117 53 Mic Mac (AUS) Statue of Liberty (USA) Amandine (AUS) G M,S T Boomerang Breeding Syn Greg Eurell AUS117 53 Monterey Jazz (USA) Thunderello (USA) Reefside (USA) H M T Joe Masino & Tom Arndt Craig Dollase USA117 53 Patkai (IRE) Indian Ridge (IRE) Olympienne (IRE) C E T Ballymacoll Stud Sir Michael Stoute GB117 53 Predatory Pricer (AUS) Street Cry (IRE) Shady Stream (AUS) C I,M T Meringo Stud Syndicate P. Murray AUS117 53 Pressing (IRE) Soviet Star (USA) Rafif (USA) H I T Mr Gary A. Tanaka M. A. Jarvis GB117 53 Rahy’s Attorney (CAN) Crown Attorney (CAN) Rahy’s Hope (USA) G I T Joseph MacLellan I. Black CAN117 53 Rail Trip (USA) Jump Start (USA) Sweet Trip (USA) G I D Jay Em Ess Stable Ronald W. Ellis USA117 53 Schiaparelli (GER) Monsun (GER) Sacarina (GB) H E,L T Godolphin Saeed bin Suroor GB117 53 Sight Winner (NZ) Faltaat (USA) Kinjinette (NZ) G M T Wing Kun Tam J. Size HK117 53 Success Brocken (JPN) Symboli Kris S (USA) Success Beauty (JPN) C M D Tetsu Takashima Hideaki Fujiwara JPN117 53 Swiss Ace (AUS) Secret Savings (USA) Rapid Serve (USA) H S T D. W. & Mrs K. Rogers M. Mair AUS117 53 Thumbs Up (NZ) Shinko King (IRE) Regelle (NZ) G L,I T Chung Shan Leung C. S. Shum HK117 53 Vermilion (JPN) El Condor Pasa (USA) Scarlet Lady (JPN) H I D Sunday Racing Co Ltd S. Ishizaka JPN117 53 Vigor (NZ) O’Reilly (NZ) Rationable (NZ) G M T T. H. Rourke Et al Danny O’Brien AUS117 53 Voila Ici (IRE) Daylami (IRE) Far Hope (GB) C I T Scuderia Incolinx V. Caruso ITY116 52.5 Al Nasrain (JPN) Admire Vega (JPN) Elatis (USA) H E,L T Sunday Racing Co Ltd Shigeki Matsumoto JPN116 52.5 Bank Robber (AUS) Dash For Cash (AUS) Saliah (AUS) G S T J. C. Sampson Et al Gai Waterhouse AUS116 52.5 Benny The Bull (USA) Lucky Lionel (USA) Comet Cat (USA) H S D I.E.A.H. Stables et al Richard E. Dutrow Jr USA116 52.5 Black Piranha (AUS) Clang (AUS) Jazztrack (AUS) G M T J. Karakatsanis Et al C. Karakatsanis AUS116 52.5 Borderlescott (GB) Compton Place (GB) Jeewan (IRE) G S T James Edgar & William Donaldson R. Bastiman GB116 52.5 Bribon (FR) Mark of Esteem (IRE) Rowat Arazi (GB) G M D Marc Keller Robert Ribaudo USA116 52.5 Bullsbay (USA) Tiznow (USA) The Hess Express (USA) H M D Mitchell Ranch H. Graham Motion USA116 52.5 Cannonball (USA) Catienus (USA) No Deadline (USA) G S T Kenneth L. & Sarah K. Ramsey Wesley A. Ward USA116 52.5 Casino Drive (USA) Mineshaft (USA) Better Than Honour (USA) C M D Hidetoshi Yamamoto Kazuo Fujisawa JPN116 52.5 Crossharbour (GB) Zamindar (USA) Docklands (USA) H L T Mr K. Abdulla A. Fabre FR116 52.5 Dancing In Silks (USA) Black Minnaloushe (USA) Lemhi Love (USA) G S D Mr Ken Kinakin Carla Gaines USA116 52.5 Dao Dao (AUS) Shinko Forest (IRE) Casual Way (NZ) G M T Mr K. S. Lee John Hawkes AUS116 52.5 El Segundo (NZ) Pins (AUS) Palos Verdes (NZ) G I T D. Howell & Partners C. Little AUS116 52.5 Flamingo Fantasy (GER) Fantastic Light (USA) Flamingo Road (GER) C L T Gestut Park Wiedingen W. Hickst GER116 52.5 Georgie Boy (USA) Tribal Rule (USA) Ippodamia (USA) G S D Mr George Schwary Kathy Walsh USA116 52.5 Just As Well (USA) A P Indy (USA) No Matter What (USA) H I T Jonathan E. Sheppard Jonathan E. Sheppard USA116 52.5 Kane Hekili (JPN) Fuji Kiseki (JPN) Life Out There (USA) H M D Kaneko Makoto Holdings Co Ltd Katsuhiko Sumii JPN116 52.5 Karelian (USA) Bertrando (USA) Leaning Tower (USA) G M T Green Lantern Stables LLC George R. Arnold II USA116 52.5 Kirklees (IRE) Jade Robbery (USA) Moyesii (USA) H L,I D Godolphin Saeed bin Suroor GB116 52.5 Mac Love (GB) Cape Cross (IRE) My Lass (GB) G I,M T Mr Vimal Khosla Stef Liddiard GB116 52.5 Magical Fantasy (USA) Diesis (GB) Kissing Gate (USA) F M T D. Bienstock Et al Patrick Gallagher USA116 52.5 Metal Bender (NZ) Danasinga (AUS) Jacqwin (AUS) G M T Mr D. N. Fuller Jack Denham AUS116 52.5 More Bountiful (NZ) Van Nistelrooy (USA) Centaine Gu Li (NZ) G M T Lucky Lord Syndicate J. Size HK116 52.5 Niconero (AUS) Danzero (AUS) Nicola Lass (AUS) G I,M T P. B. Devitt et al D. A. Hayes AUS116 52.5 Parading (USA) Pulpit (USA) On Parade (USA) H M D Phipps Stable C. R. McGaughey III USA116 52.5 Poet (GB) Pivotal (GB) Hyabella (GB) C I,M T Mr Derrick Smith A. P. O’Brien IRE116 52.5 Pompeii Ruler (AUS) Genuine (JPN) West With Night (NZ) G I T Bridsan Bloodstock Syndicate Mick Price AUS116 52.5 Premio Loco (USA) Prized (USA) Crazee Mental (GB) G M T Mr Bernard Westley C. F. Wall GB116 52.5 Purple Moon (IRE) Galileo (IRE) Vanishing Prairie (USA) G L T Mr Craig Bennett L. M. Cumani GB116 52.5 Rebel Raider (AUS) Reset (AUS) Picholine (AUS) C L T B. H. Perks et al Leon Macdonald AUS116 52.5 Road To Rock (AUS) Encosta de Lago (AUS) Trewornan (GB) H M T A. Cummings T’Breds Syndicate Anthony Cummings AUS116 52.5 Seattle Smooth (USA) Quiet American (USA) Our Seattle Star (USA) F M D Mercedes Stables LLC Anthony W. Dutrow USA116 52.5 Smooth Air (USA) Smooth Jazz (USA) Air France (USA) C M D Mount Joy Stables Inc Chad C. Brown USA116 52.5 Spring House (USA) Chester House (USA) Spring Star (BRZ) G L T Mr R. D. Hubbard Julio C. Canani USA116 52.5 Stotsfold (GB) Barathea (IRE) Eliza Acton (GB) G I T Mr P. W. Harris W. R. Swinburn GB116 52.5 Super Hornet (JPN) Rodrigo de Triano (USA) You Sun Polish (JPN) H M T Masamitsu Tajima Yoshito Yahagi JPN116 52.5 Theseo (AUS) Danewin (AUS) Ozone Sand (USA) G I T M. Townsend et al Gai Waterhouse AUS



ThE tWo-YEaR-olD divison promises much excitement with all eyes on the Epsom Derby as the top three on the list, St. Nicholas Abbey (124) and Jan Vermeer (119), who are both by

montjeu, and the second-placed Passion For Gold, by medaglia d’oro, a son of the former Irish champion two-year-old El Prado (sadler’s Wells) and sire of Rachel alexandra, look sure to stay. montjeu and medaglia d’oro also have Joshua Tree (113) and Al Zir (110) in the list and both look promising types.

st. nicholas abbey is a half-brother to the Us 1m4f stakes winner Grammarian. he is out of moyglare winner Flamenco Wave, who is a half-sister to the sadler’s Wells Group 1 winners Ballingarry, aristotle and to the st. James’s Palace stakes winner starborough. It is a nicely balanced Classic pedigree.

Jan Vermeer’s dam shadow song is by

the Guineas winner Pennekamp and is a half-sister to midnight air, a Group winner and producer of the Group and Graded winner Midnight Line who finished third in the oaks. shadow song is also a half-sister to multimara, dam of a very different type of sadler’s Wells runner, the Prix de l’abbaye de longchamp winner Imperial Beauty.

Passion For Gold is out of C’Est l’amour, a Us turf Graded winner by thunder Gulch, who was winner of the Kentucky Derby and the 1m4f Belmont stakes. the dam is a French listed winner out of Paint the town, a Vaguely noble daughter, who won the Grand Prix d’Evry over colts.

at the other end of the distance scale

from the top three, Canford Cliffs, a son of tagula – by taufan and just about the only serious representative of the stop the music branch of hail to Reason line in Europe – looked spectacular when winning the Coventry stakes at Royal ascot. made an early ante-post favourite for this year’s 2,000 Guineas, Canford Cliffs was then defeated by Arcano and the filly Special Duty in the Prix Morny in a finish where about a length covered all five runners.

It was the second racecourse victory in only two outings for arcano. he is a son of the sprinter oasis Dream, who is now siring good winners over a wide variety of distances, and out the Daylami mare tariysha, a daughter of the Irish oaks winner tarwiya. It is an aga Khan family that tends to produce stamina – arcano is inbred to mill Reef – but he is probably still going to find a mile his limit.

Canford Cliffs, meanwhile, is surely going to be a sprint specialist. the morny form was

franked when special Duty won the Cheveley Park stakes giving her the champion two-year-old title. she is by storm Cat’s now-deceased son hennessy, who is best-known in Europe as sire of Johannesburg, and is out of Quest to Peak, a sister to the excellent mare sightseek and a half-sister to another, tates Creek. sightseek was a good winner at up to 1m1f and special Duty has a good chance of seeing out the Guineas mile.

In the Prix Robert-Papin, special Duty accounted for the colt Siyouni, who had established a tall reputation with three sprint victories. he was beaten again in the

Prix la Rochette by Rahy’s son, Pounced, but returned to the winners’ enclosure in the

Prix Jean luc lagardère. By Pivotal, he is out of Danehill’s stakes-

winning daughter sichilla, a half-sister to Group 1 winner slickly and Graded winner no slip. he’s another who looks like a miler.

the other horse rated equal with arcano, Canford Cliffs and siyouni is Vale Of York, who was second in the Grand Criterium, third in the Royal lodge stakes before beating the americans on the all-weather in the Breeders’ Cup Classic. the runner-up there, Lookin at Lucky, had a horrible trip through the race and came back to win the Cash Call Futurity.

Vale of York is by Invincible spirit and out of the halling mare Red Vale. he is another winner for the Danzig/sharpen Up cross. Red Vale is a half-sister to mark of Esteem’s Us Graded winner Uraib and out a sister to the good 1m2f horse Batshoof.

those also rated 117 include Awzaan and Beethoven, surprisingly lowly rated for winners of the middle Park and the Dewhurst stakes. the undefeated awzaan is by champion European two-year-old alhaarth, previously sire of Group/Grade 1 winners haafhd and Phoenix Reach. his dam is a speedy stakes winner by Zafonic, out of a Green Desert mare from the speedy tap-root of Pelting/splashing – a mile is far from certain.

Beethoven, who finished out of the frame behind Vale of York in the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile, is out of Queen titi. a daughter of sadler’s Wells, she was a listed winner over a mile at two, and is closely related to saffron Walden, Insight, listen, sequoyah and is from the family of henrythenavigator.

Fencing master is out of the Prix saint-alary winner moonlight Dance (who is by alysheba, which gives Fencing master a double of alydar), who in turn is out of the undefeated French 1,000 Guineas and oaks winner, madelia. Both will stay 1m2f and could get further.

On pedigree, the top juveniles look likely types for Classic glory

“At the other end of the distance scale from the top three, Canford Cliffs looked spectacular when winning the Coventry Stakes at Royal Ascot

“St. Nicholas Abbey wins the Racing Post Trophy



WoRlD RANkINgS: Two-year-olds

Rating kgs Name Sire Dam Sex Surface owner Trainer Country124 56 St Nicholas Abbey (IRE) Montjeu (IRE) Leaping Water (GB) C T Smith, Magnier, Tabor A. P. O’Brien IRE120 54.5 Passion For Gold (USA) Medaglia d’Oro (USA) C’Est L’Amour (USA) C T Godolphin Saeed bin Suroor GB119 54 Jan Vermeer (IRE) Montjeu (IRE) Shadow Song (IRE) C T Smith, Magnier, Tabor A. P. O’Brien IRE118 53.5 Arcano (IRE) Oasis Dream (GB) Tariysha (IRE) C T Brimacombe,McNally,Vinciguerra,Sangster B. J. Meehan GB118 53.5 Arcano (IRE) Oasis Dream (GB) Tariysha (IRE) C T Mr Hamdan Al Maktoum B. J. Meehan GB118 53.5 Canford Cliffs (IRE) Tagula (IRE) Mrs Marsh (GB) C T Heffer Syn, Mrs Roy & Mrs Instance R. Hannon GB118 53.5 Siyouni (FR) Pivotal (GB) Sichilla (IRE) C T H.H. Aga Khan A. de Royer Dupre FR118 53.5 Vale of York (IRE) Invincible Spirit (IRE) Red Vale (IRE) C D Godolphin Saeed bin Suroor GB117 53 Awzaan (GB) Alhaarth (IRE) Nufoos (GB) C T Mr Hamdan Al Maktoum M. Johnston GB117 53 Beethoven (IRE) Oratorio (IRE) Queen Titi (IRE) C T Smith, Magnier, Tabor A. P. O’Brien IRE117 53 Pounced (USA) Rahy (USA) Golden Cat (USA) C T Lady Rothschild J. H. M. Gosden GB117 53 Special Duty (GB) Hennessy (USA) Quest To Peak (USA) F T Mr K. Abdulla Mme C. Head-Maarek FR116 52.5 Arctic (IRE) Shamardal (USA) Shawanni (GB) C T Mr R. A. Pegum Tracey Collins IRE116 52.5 Fencing Master (GB) Oratorio (IRE) Moonlight Dance (USA) C T Smith, Magnier, Tabor A. P. O’Brien IRE116 52.5 Hearts of Fire (GB) Firebreak (GB) Alexander Ballet (GB) C T Pat Eddery Racing (Detroit) Pat Eddery GB116 52.5 Kingsfort (USA) War Chant (USA) Princess Kris (GB) C T Mr Norman Ormiston K. Prendergast IRE116 52.5 Xtension (IRE) Xaar (GB) Great Joy (IRE) C T Brighthelm Racing C. G. Cox GB115 52 Chabal (IRE) Galileo (IRE) Vagary (IRE) C T Lady O’Reilly/ Mrs J. S. Bolger J. S. Bolger IRE115 52 Elusive Pimpernel (USA) Elusive Quality (USA) Cara Fantasy (IRE) C T Windflower Overseas Holdings Inc J. L. Dunlop GB115 52 Jealous Again (USA) Trippi (USA) Chi Sa (CAN) F T Abrams ,Brewer, Dutko, Ward Wesley A. Ward USA115 52 Radiohead (GB) Johannesburg (USA) Security Interest (USA) C T Mrs Burrell & Mr Harvey B. J. Meehan GB115 52 Steinbeck (IRE) Footstepsinthesand (GB) Castara Beach (IRE) C T Smith, Magnier, Tabor A. P. O’Brien IRE114 51.5 Awesome Act (USA) Awesome Again (CAN) Houdini’s Honey (USA) C T Mrs Susan Roy & Mr Tom Ludt J. Noseda GB114 51.5 Buzzword (GB) Pivotal (GB) Bustling (GB) C T Godolphin Saeed bin Suroor GB114 51.5 Orpen Grey (IRE) Orpen (USA) Sky Red (GB) G T The Folly Racers Tom Dascombe GB114 51.5 Rosanara (FR) Sinndar (IRE) Rosawa (FR) F T H.H. Aga Khan A. de Royer Dupre GB114 51.5 Showcasing (GB) Oasis Dream (GB) Arabesque (GB) C T Mr K. Abdulla J. H. M. Gosden GB114 51.5 Zanzibari (USA) Smart Strike (CAN) Zinziberine (USA) C T Sheikh Mohammed A. Fabre FR113 51 Joshua Tree (IRE) Montjeu (IRE) Madeira Mist (IRE) C T Smith, Magnier, Tabor A. P. O’Brien IRE113 51 Lady of The Desert (USA) Rahy (USA) Queen’s Logic (IRE) F T Mr Jaber Abdullah B. J. Meehan GB112 50.5 Alfred Nobel (IRE) Danehill Dancer (IRE) Glinting Desert (IRE) C T Smith, Magnier, Tabor A. P. O’Brien IRE112 50.5 Dick Turpin (IRE) Arakan (USA) Merrily (GB) C T Mr John Manley R. Hannon GB112 50.5 Emerald Commander (IRE) Pivotal (GB) Brigitta (IRE) C T Godolphin Saeed bin Suroor GB112 50.5 Lope de Vega (IRE) Shamardal (USA) Lady Vettori (GB) C T Gestut Ammerland A. Fabre FR112 50.5 Lucky General (IRE) Hawk Wing (USA) Dress Code (IRE) C T Mrs J. Wood R. Hannon GB112 50.5 Poet’s Voice (GB) Dubawi (IRE) Bright Tiara (USA) C T Godolphin Saeed bin Suroor GB112 50.5 Silver Grecian (GB) Haafhd (GB) Regrette Rien (USA) C T Ocean Trailers Ltd J. Ryan GB111 50.5 Angel’s Pursuit (IRE) Pastoral Pursuits (GB) Midnight Angel (GB) C T Mr Malih L. Al Basti R. Hannon GB111 50.5 Monsieur Chevalier (IRE) Chevalier (IRE) Blue Holly (IRE) C T Mrs Hubbard & Mr Ian Higginson R. Hannon GB111 50.5 Orpen Shadow (IRE) Orpen (USA) Mujadil Shadow (IRE) C T Scuderia Blueberry SRL B. Grizzetti ITY111 50.5 Our Jonathan (GB) Invincible Spirit (IRE) Sheik’n Swing (GB) C T Dr Marwan Koukash K. A. Ryan GB110 50 Air Chief Marshal (IRE) Danehill Dancer (IRE) Hawala (IRE) C T Smith, Magnier, Tabor A. P. O’Brien IRE110 50 Al Zir (USA) Medaglia d’Oro (USA) Bayou Plans (USA) C T Godolphin Saeed bin Suroor GB110 50 Cape Blanco (IRE) Galileo (IRE) Laurel Delight (GB) C T Smith, Magnier, Tabor A. P. O’Brien IRE110 50 Dancing David (IRE) Danehill Dancer (IRE) Seek Easy (USA) C T Mr Catesby W. Clay B. J. Meehan GB110 50 Dolled Up (IRE) Whipper (USA) Belle de Cadix (IRE) F T Mrs A. M. Hayes R. Collet FR110 50 Eightfold Path (USA) Giant’s Causeway (USA) Divine Proportions (USA) C T Niarchos Family P. Bary FR110 50 Free Judgement (USA) Vindication (USA) South Bay Cove (CAN) C T Mrs.Judd/Mrs.Bolger/Ennistown St J. S. Bolger IRE110 50 Hibaayeb (GB) Singspiel (IRE) Lady Zonda (GB) F T Mr Mohammed Al Nabouda C. E. Brittain GB110 50 Layali Al Andalus (GB) Halling (USA) Lafite (GB) C T Sheikh Hamdan M. Johnston GB110 50 Mikhail Glinka (IRE) Galileo (IRE) Lady Karr (GB) C T Smith, Magnier, Tabor A. P. O’Brien IRE110 50 Misheer (GB) Oasis Dream (GB) All For Laura (GB) F T Mr Saeed Manana C. E. Brittain GB110 50 Music Show (IRE) Noverre (USA) Dreamboat (USA) F T Mr Jaber Abdullah M. R. Channon GB110 50 Neatico (GER) Medicean (GB) Nicola Bella (IRE) C T Gestut Ittlingen P. Schiergen GER110 50 Termagant (IRE) Powerscourt (GB) Rock Salt (GB) F T Mr Jorg Vasicek K. Prendergast IRE110 50 Viscount Nelson (USA) Giant’s Causeway (USA) Imagine (IRE) C T Mrs John Magnier/Mrs David Nagle A. P. O’Brien IRE110 50 Waseet (GB) Selkirk (USA) Najayeb (USA) C T Mr Hamdan Al Maktoum J. L. Dunlop GB

feature affordable sires


THE AGE of austerity has dawned in the bloodstock industry. With sales prices some way short of their mid-noughties high, and economic problems in the

wider world still as yet unresolved, many breeders will be looking to (perhaps needing to) tighten their belts when it comes to formulating mating plans this spring.

That puts those stallions who figure towards the bottom of the price spectrum – including many who have had their fees cut considerably

in response to the downturn in the bloodstock market – into the limelight.

But low prices do not necessarily equate to good value for money, and the wrong choice of stallion could leave those who breed to sell worse off if there is an upswing in bloodstock prices within the next two years.

Although there is a danger of being left with stock by an uncommercial sire, there are still some decent sires in this bracket – and with bloodstock prices as there are, although it can be difficult to find a profit even off these lower nomination prices,

perhaps spending less might prove a wise move. It is though a precarious balancing act using a cheaper sire, who produces saleable and raceable progeny.

The following selection of British and Irish-based stallions whose fees are above £2,000 and €2,000 and under £5,500 or €6,000 and who may be up to the task in hand i.e. producing a commercial yearling and a likely winner, which has some chance of being a stakes horse, off a nomination fee that is not going to look expensive in three years’ time.

Why spend a fortuneon your nominations this spring?Paying less is not a crime and could turn out to be a very shrewd move

Golden oldiesUsing an older stallion towards the bottom of the market with the intention of selling the progeny comes with obvious risks. Most have low nomination fees for a good reason; they have not produced quality horses with sufficient consistency for their young progeny to justify higher prices in the sale ring.

But there are some golden oldies whose lustre hasn’t faded and who for some reason are not offered at a higher price; while they might not catch the limelight of the sales crowd, they can produce capable racehorses

year in and year out. If you are looking to get a young mare off the ground without spending too much, then stallions in this category are worth more than a second look as you will have every chance of getting a winner. It is also worth remembering that, regardless of fashion, the vendor of a well-put together type will often be rewarded by buyers.

Take last season’s Coventry Stakes winner and Prix Morny third Canford Cliffs, for example. There was enough competition among bidders when last season’s impressive Coventry Stakes winner went

through the ring as a yearling to drive his price to £50,000 – despite his sire Tagula’s yearling median in 2008 being just 2,451gns.

Tagula, who got 24 winners in 2009 at a decent strike-rate of 33 per cent, embarks on his 14th covering season at Rathbarry Stud standing at a fee of €4,000, the same as in 2009. Last year’s crop of yearlings by Tagula sold for a median of 5,716gns, which doesn’t admittedly allow for much elbow room, but he did have four sell for in excess of 20,000gns headed by a £52,000 colt purchased by Peter Doyle, who also bought Canford Cliffs.

by Martin Stevens of the Racing Post



Ballyhane Stud’s Captain Rio produced the most winners of this batch of stallions – in fact he was eleventh on the general stallions list for 2009 by winners produced. And with a decent strike rate of 30 per cent and a number of multiple winners judging by his 61 wins, by the far the best on the list, he is most definitely a sire to have in this fee bracket, despite failing to get a stakes horse in 2009.

His sales yearlings produced a healthy average of 17,000gns, although the median was just over 4,000gns.

Bertolini is no longer scaling the heights once hoped for after finishing up as the

leading first-season sire in 2005. His fee was hiked up to €15,000 and he was shipped to Ireland, but the son of Danzig could not maintain the progress and his fee has gradually slipped down to £4,000. He has also returned to stand at Overbury Stud.

Bertolini had one stakes horse through 2009, the six-year-old Hackwood Stakes runner-up Prime Defender, but it is as a good source of two-year-olds that he is particularly known for and he produced 22 such winners in 2009 9over half his overall winners0 at a strike-rate of 44 per cent, sixth on the overall sires’ list of two-year-old performers.

Stallion Winners-Runners % Wins Runs Prize-Money

Captain Rio 40-132 30 61 620 634,247Bertolini 33-162 20 42 705 472,228Choisir 30-92 33 42 408 466,846Namid 30-118 25 43 547 514,711Tagula 24-72 33 35 348 340,931Intikhab 24-72 33 33 279 408,998Refuse To Bend 21-91 23 28 338 457,576Tobougg 17-106 16 19 338 293,725Avonbridge 16-51 31 18 205 121,551Pastoral Pursuits 14-36 39 17 136 141,126Key Of Luck 13-51 25 17 191 195,838Piccolo 13-86 15 23 346 179,263Auction House 9-46 20 12 191 79,881Monsieur Bond 9-48 19 10 175 61,640Lucky Story 9-49 18 12 186 481,416Act One 8-28 29 9 82 175,911Elnadim 8-34 24 18 133 313,093Fayruz 7-19 37 12 108 153,853Atraf 7-23 30 11 101 75,380Bachelor Duke 7-33 21 12 113 217,012Bold Fact 6-20 30 8 99 147,118Camacho 6-22 27 9 102 129,403Chevalier 6-27 22 13 131 264,867Indian Haven 6-30 20 6 104 168,282Trade Fair 6-31 1 7 113 76,055Needwood Blade 6-50 12 6 165 33,380Beat All 5-8 63 8 43 93,566Passing Glance 3-8 38 3 32 31,357Rakti 3-12 25 3 48 21,532Imperial Dancer 3-16 19 4 79 26,177Firebreak 3-17 18 4 64 69,367

Progeny race results 2009 Flat season UK and Ireland

“Ballyhane Stud’s Captain Rio produced the most winners of this batch of stallions - in fact he was eleventh on the overall stallions list for 2009 by winners produced

“



Sales-wise his average and median both dropped markedly in 2009, and his top-priced horse only fetched 35,000gns compared to prices over 100,000gns in 2008 and 2007.

Piccolo is, like Tagula, a total outcross for Northern Dancer and Mr. Prospector-line mares. The 19-year-old son of Warning has been transferred to Throckmorton Court Stud after two seasons at Lanwades, and has had his fee dropped from £5,000 to £3,000 – a more appealing price for a stallion whose 2009 yearlings sold with a median of 8,285gns.

By the time the progeny of mares bred to Piccolo in 2010 come up for auction, the stallion will have been represented on the racecourse by two crops bred at Lanwades in the immediate afterglow of the juvenile exploits of his joint-best runner Winker Watson – maybe one or two of those will come up trumps and give their younger siblings a commercial boost.

Another stallion whose two-year-olds and three-year-olds of 2012 – when horses conceived this year become yearlings – could reasonably be expected to be of better quality is Intikhab, who in 2007 was represented by Lockinge Stakes (G1) heroine Red Evie.

The Derrinstown Stud resident’s fee has been reduced to €5,500 for 2010 having been as high as €8,000 two years ago; the price reduction will make his progeny’s yearling median of 8,059gns last year a more palatable prospect. Among his highest-priced yearlings last year were two colts bought by Hamdan al Maktoum’s Shadwell

operation for 150,000gns and 70,000gns.Intikhab’s studmate Elnadim also

deserves mention as a solid, dependable source of smart performers. There is not much clear water between his €6,000 fee – which has remained the same since the 2007 breeding season – and his 2009 yearling median of 7,397gns.

The son of Danzig covered a depleted book of mares in 2006, so he had few two-year-olds run last year, but he has covered books of between 50 and 60 mares every season since, due to, in part, the exploits of Flying Childers (G2) winner and Middle Park runner-up Wi Dud in 2006. In the last three seasons, the number of black-type mares Elnadim has covered increased, which bodes well for his young racecourse representatives come 2011 and 2012.

COOLMORE’S Choisir has not done as well as was orignally expected, but he gets the winners without having the huge weight of runners behind him that you might suppose he

would have considering his stud base. He does seem to get a stakes performer in the northern hemisphere each year – the Hughie Morrison-trained Stimulation was the one in 2009 – but his results are better with his runners in the southern hemisphere where he produced the Group 1 Caulfield Guineas winner Starspangledbanner last October and the Group 1 runner-up Gold Water last April.

Crunch-time siresSires with three crops or fewer to have

raced are at a crunch time in their career. However unfair it may seem, the market will have made up its mind about a stallion on the limited evidence their initial runners give, and many have already been exiled to foreign shores. On the other hand, there is still plenty of time for one or two top performers to emerge and transform a stallion’s stud record.

The immaculately bred Chevalier enjoyed a breakthrough year with his third crop of runners in 2009 when he struck gold with his best runner to date, the blisteringly fast Molecomb Stakes winner Monsieur Chevalier.

The sire, a Danehill half-brother to Virginia Waters, had only six yearlings sell last autumn, suggesting he might struggle for future representation, but those who did made a respectable average of 18,457gns and

“In the last three seasons, the number of black-type mares Elnadim has covered increased, which bodes well for his young racecourse representatives come 2011 and 2012

“

Tagula’s son Canford Cliffs.

He dotted up in the Coventry

Stakes and although

slightly disappointing

in the Morny, he still finished

a good third. His career

earnings are over £100,000

so far



Aussie Rules Danehill 2007 Coolmore 8,000 6,000Bachelor Duke Miswaki 2005 Ballylinch Stud 7,500 6,000Choisir Danehill Dancer 2004 Coolmore 8,000 6,000Elnadim Danzig 2001 Derrinstown Stud 6,000 6,000Iffraaj Zafonic 2007 Darley 8,000 6,000Indian Haven Indian Ridge 2005 Irish National Stud 6,000 6,000Intikhab Red Ransom 2000 Derrinstown Stud 7,000 5,500Papal Bull Montjeu 2009 Coolagown 7,500 6,000Ad Valorem Danzig 2007 Coolmore 7,000 5,000Captain Rio Pivotal 2004 Ballyhane Stud 5,000 5,000Diamond Green Green Desert 2007 Ballyhane Stud 7,000 5,000Heliostatic Galileo 2008 Oak Lodge 5,000 5,000Key Of Luck Chief's Crown 1998 Tara Stud 9,000 5,000Rakti Polish Precedent 2006 Irish National Stud 5,000 5,000Six Sense Sunday Silence 2007 Bridge House Stud 4,500 4,500Arakan Nureyev 2006 Ballyhane Stud 4,500 4,000Balmont Stravinsky 2007 Tara Stud 5,000 4,000Camacho Danehill 2006 Morristown Lattin Stud 3,000 4,000Echo Of Light Dubai Millennium 2008 Darley 4,000 4,000Haatef Danzig 2009 Derrinstown Stud 6,500 4,000Kodiac Danehill 2007 Tally Ho Stud 4,000 4,000Moss Vale Shinko Forest 2008 Rathbarry Stud 4,000 4,000Strategic Prince Dansili 2008 Coolmore 6,000 4,000Tagula Taufan 1997 Rathbarry Stud 4,000 4,000Thousand Words Dansili 2009 Rathasker Stud 5,000 4,000Windsor Knot Pivotal 2008 Rossenarra Stud 4,000 4,000Captain Marvelous Invincible Spirit 2009 Ballyhane Stud 5,000 3,500Dubai Destination Kingmambo 2004 Glenview Stud 7,000 3,500Fayruz Song 1987 Rossenarra Stud 3,500 3,500Bahri Riverman 1996 Derrinstown Stud 4,000 3,000Baltic King Danetime 2008 Tally Ho Stud 3,500 3,000Broadway Flyer Theatrical 1998 Greentree Stud 3,000 3,000Captain Marvelous Invincible Spirit 2009 Ballyhane Stud 5,000 3,000Chevalier Danehill 2004 Tally Ho Stud 3,500 3,000Ivan Denisovich Danehill 2007 Coolmore 4,000 3,000Majestic Missile Royal Applause 2007 Ballyhane Stud 4,000 3,000Marignan Blushing Groom 1993 Bridge House Stud 3,000 3,000Danroad Danehill 2004 Rathmuk Stud 3,500 2,500Pelder Be My Guest 1996 Greentree Stud 2,500 2,500Atraf Clantime 1998 Rathmuck Stud 2,000 2,000Dilshaan Darshaan 2003 Tara Stud 4,000 2,000Let The Lion Roar Sadler’s Wells 2007 Bridge House on app 2,000

Stallion Sire Year to stud Stud 2009 fee 2010 fee

Irish-based stallions: €2,000-€6,000



median of 13,784gns with again Peter Doyle, who sourced Monsieur Chevalier, purchasing the most expensive for 52,000gns.

The fact that Dubai Destination had his fee more than halved for 2009 after his second crop of runners, and for this year has had his fee more than halved again, and has undergone a move to Glenview Stud, where he will stand as a dual-purpose sire, tells its own story.

The new fee for the son of Kingmambo, who sired Racing Post Trophy winner Ibn Khaldun in his first crop, is €3,500 – a price more reflective of his 11,500gns yearling median in 2009.

Another stallion who formerly stood under the Darley banner and has received a fee reduction and a change of scenery is Refuse To Bend, whose third crop race this year. He has crossed the Irish Sea from Kildangan Stud, where he stood last year for €12,000, to Whitsbury Manor Stud, where he will command a fee of £5,000 this year.

A son of Sadler’s Wells, his new fee should make more appeal to breeders after his 2009

yearlings sold for a median of 12,944gns, with some eyecatching prices paid for the most expensive, including a 70,000gns filly sold to Emma O’Gorman and a €68,000 colt purchased by Agence FIPS.

There was next to no room for profit-making when Lucky Story’s yearlings came up for auction last year. Three by the Tweenhills Stud resident conceived off a fee of £4,000 sold with a median of 4,761gns.

But he proved himself able to get a good one – Art Connoisseur, winner of the Coventry Stakes and Golden Jubilee Stakes – and lightning can strike twice. It’s reasonable to expect an improvement in terms of quality and quantity of mares sent to him as well as an associated improvement in sale prices by 2012.

NATIONAL STUD STALLION Pastoral Pursuits is a rare stallion at stud who was given a fee increase for this year – from £4,500 to £5,000, but the bright start

made by his first crop of runners earned their sire his reward. Besides star performer Mill Reef Stakes second Angel’s Pursuit (who illustrated his sire’s commercial appeal when topping the DBS Breeze-Up Sales at £190,000), Pastoral Pursuits has several intriguing dark horses which bode well for his future, including unbeaten Eolith and easy maiden winner Plume.

Producing winners at a strike-rate of 34 per cent, Pastoral Pursuits

appears to be sire capable of getting a number of decent

performers.Three-quarters of

Pastoral Pursuits’s yearling draft last year sold,

with a median of 12,000gns, including a 160,000gns colt bought

by Peter Doyle. Other encouraging buyers appearing on the list of

buyers included Gill Richardson, Anthony Stroud, Stan Moore, Rabbah Bloodstock, John Fretwell and Henry Candy.

Another second-crop sire of 2010 worth mentioning is Camacho, who, from only 23 runners, came up with ultra-tough Star Rover and Cheveley Park Stakes fourth Puff. The son of Danehill’s already-

very-attractive pedigree also received a further compliment

when his closely-related half-brother

Showcasing won the Gimcrack Stakes. His 2009 yearlings sold well – only four of his 22 offered failed to find a new home and they sold with a median of 12,510gns. Like Pastoral Pursuits, his fee has risen this year, with Morristown Lattin Stud adjusting it from €3,000 to €4,000.

Bearstone Stud inmate Firebreak’s first crop of 36 foals yielded Brocklesby Stakes and Group 1 winner Hearts Of Fire as well as Listed Radley Stakes scorer Electric Feel, so the son of Charnwood Forest is unlikely to cover books that small again in the immediate future. His fee is £3,000 this season.

Also doing his bit for the Warning sire line is Avonbridge, who was represented by 19 first-season juvenile scorers last year for a winners-to-runners strike rate of 33 per cent. Around four-fifths of his second crop of yearlings were registered as sold last year, and they sold with a median of 9,047gns. He stands at Whitsbury Manor Stud at a fee of £3,500 this year.

Ballyhane Stud-based Arakan’s first juveniles also boasted an impressive winners-to-runners ratio: 35 per cent. He figures highest of any active stallions in this price bracket in 2009’s leading first-crop sires in Europe by order of progeny earnings, thanks mainly to his standard-bearer, the Richmond Stakes and Tattersalls Ireland sales race winner Dick Turpin.

In spite of those achievements, the son of Nureyev’s second crop of foals did not find favour with buyers, with nine from 15 offerings selling with a median price of 3,809gns.

As he has proved himself a producer of winners – and capable ones – he should

“National Stud stallion Pastoral Pursuits is a rare stallion at stud who was given a fee increase for this year – from £4,500 to £5,000, but the bright start made by his first crop of runners earned their sire his reward

“

Angel’s Pursuit



receive an upgrade in the number and quality of mares, which will have an associated knock-on effect on his progeny’s commercial value.

Not proven, but not overlookedWithout the crucial evidence of seeing their progeny race, before using an unproven sire breeders need to be well-armed with

covering statistics and sale returns – as well as the usual pedigree and performance notes and old-fashioned instinct – to make the best possible decision as to a mate for their mare. The greater risk often goes hand in hand with increased reward.

A good example of the gamble coming off is provided by Kheleyf. Breeders taking a chance on him in his second season at stud

in 2006 at a fee of €8,000 were rewarded two years later with a yearling sales median of 19,608gns, after the sire made such a good start with his first crop of runners.

Several stallions whose first crop race this year could be attractive prospects judged on the evidence from the sale ring.

Poule d’Essai des Poulains winner Aussie Rules retired to Coolmore at a

Myboycharlie Danetime 2010 National Stud n/a 5,500Sakhee’s Secret Sakhee 2009 Whitsbury Manor Stud 6,500 5,500Pastoral Pursuits Bahamian Bounty 2006 National Stud 4,500 5,000Refuse To Bend Sadler’s Wells 2005 Whitsbury Manor Stud 12,000 5,000Three Valleys Diesis 2008 Juddmonte 5,000 5,000Virtual Pivotal 2010 Cheveley Park Stud n/a 5,000Black Sam Bellamy Sadler’s Wells 2004 Shade Oak Stud 4,500 4,500Cockney Rebel Val Royal 2008 National Stud 8,000 4,500Assertive Bold Edge 2009 Throckmorton Stud 4,000 4,000Bertolini Danzig 2002 Overbury Stud 4,000 4,000Byron Green Desert 2007 Darley 4,000 4,000Needwood Blade Pivotal 2005 Mickley Stud 3,000 4,000Observatory Distant View 2002 Juddmonte 6,000 4,000Sleeping Indian Indian Ridge 2007 Tweenhills Farm + Stud 4,000 4,000Avonbridge Averti 2006 Whitsbury Manor Stud 4,500 3,500Major Cadeaux Cadeaux Genereux 2010 Bearstone Stud n/a 3,500Winker Watson Piccolo 2010 Norman Court Stud n/a 3,500Auction House Exbourne 2003 Llety Farm 4,000 3,000Firebreak Charnwood Forest 2006 Bearstone Stud 3,000 3,000Indesatchel Danehill Dancer 2007 Bearstone Stud 3,000 3,000Lucky Story Kris S 2005 Tweenhills Stud 3,000 3,000Multiplex Danehill 2008 Mickley Stud 4,000 3,000Piccolo Warning 1996 Throckmorton Stud 5,000 3,000Proclamation King’s Best 2007 Overbury Stud 3,000 3,000Phoenix Reach Alhaarth 2007 National Stud 3,500 2,500Sagamix Linamix 2001 Overbury Stud €2,500 2,500Striking Ambition Makbul 2007 Longdon Stud 2,500 2,500Tobougg Barathea 2003 East Burrow 2,500 2,500Act One In The Wings 2003 Wood Farm Stud 6,000 2,000Beat All Roberto 2002 Mickley Stud 2,000 2,000Lucarno Dynaformer 2009 Wood Farm Stud 2,000 2,000Monsieur Bond Danehill Dancer 2005 Norton Grove Stud 3,000 2,000Prince Arch Arch 2007 Walton Fields Stud 3,000 2,000Resplendent Glory Namid 2007 Benson Stud 2,000 2,000Rob Roy Lear Fan 2009 Hedgeholme Stud 2,000 2,000

Stallion Sire Year to stud Stud 2009 fee 2010 fee

UK-based stallions: £2,000-£5,500



fee of €15,000 and the progeny from his first season at stud sold with a median of 21,476gns at the sales last year. The son of Danehill and Last Second’s fee has subsequently tumbled to €6,000, which could look very reasonable if his two-year-olds make a bright start.

Top prices for Aussie Rules’ yearlings were paid by Jim Gorman for a €140,000 colt out of Lady Windermere, from the immediate family of Listen and Henrythenavigator, and Howard Johnson for a £70,000 half-brother to Listed-placed City Dancer.

Aussie Rules’s Coolmore colleague Ad Valorem has also seen his stud fee fall from a fair way outside of this price bracket in his first year at stud to comfortably within it despite him being on the verge of his first crop of juveniles hitting the racecourse.

The Middle Park Stakes-winning son of Danzig arguably needed the fee drop from €15,000 to €5,000 to make the 10,633gns yearling median for his first crop more palatable. But those yearlings found favour with an encouraging array of buyers, including Frank Barry, Clive Cox, Pat Eddery, Amanda Skiffinton and Kern/Lillingston.

Darley also fields a pair of first-crop sires this year who may appeal to value seekers.

High-class sprinter Iffraaj, who is from the illustrious family of Cape Cross, Diktat and Russian Rhythm, looks nailed on to get his fair share of juvenile winners. His first yearlings – conceived at a fee of €12,000 – sold with an eyecatching median of 25,444gns and his fee at Kildangan Stud this year is €6,000. Maktoum support of Darley stallions helped boost the figures, with Sheikh Mohammed, Hamdan Al Maktoum and Rabbah Bloodstock buying yearlings costing 140,000gns, 115,000gns, 70,000gns, 65,000gns, 60,000gns and 50,000gns.

Two first-season sires whose yearlings were the subject of good reviews at last year’s sales were Diamond Green and Kodiac.

Diamond Green was represented by a

sales median of 8,571gns for his first crop of yearlings, who were conceived at a fee of €8,000. The son of Green Desert makes some appeal for the future, having covered a bumper book of 173 mares in his first season at stud, 118 in his second and 91 in his third. He stands at Ballyhane Stud this year at a fee of €5,000.

Kodiac’s sale statistics cast the Tally-Ho Stud stallion in a good light: he retired to stud at a fee of €5,000 and his first yearlings sold at a median of €12,380. The three-quarters brother to Invincible Spirit proved popular with pinhooker Con Marnane, who bought three including the sire’s 60,000gns

joint top lot, a half-brother to Kingsgate Native, while David Redvers also purchased three at auction.

Kodiac’s fee has been reduced to €4,000 for 2010.

Judging by foal sale returns, four of this year’s first-crop yearling sires within this price bracket worth keeping on the right side of could be Cockney Rebel, Multiplex, Strategic Prince and Three Valleys.

Mickley Stud inmate Multiplex had only five foals go through the ring last year, but three sold with a very eyecatching average of 17,500gns and median of 16,000gns and his stock really stood out at the Tattersalls December Foal Sale. The son of Danehill and grandson of Juddmonte blue hen Slightly Dangerous is available to breeders for a fee of only £3,000 this year.

There’s no crabbing Cockney Rebel’s own racecourse form – he was up with the best at two and pulled off a memorable Anglo-Irish 2,000 Guineas double at three. There was some disparity between the National Stud resident’s initial stud fee of £10,000 and the 6,000gns median seven of his first foals to sell achieved, so his new fee of £4,500 looks more feasible.

Strategic Prince, who became the first son of Dansili to enter stud in Ireland when retiring to Coolmore at a fee of €9,000, has had his fee reduced to €4,000 in 2010. Twenty-six foals by the July and Vintage Stakes winner sold last year with a respectable median of 11,047gns.

The first foals by scintillating Coventry Stakes winner Three Valleys (from the immediate family of Dansili) also compiled a fair set of sales results, selling for a median of 13,741gns. His fee for 2010 at Banstead Manor Stud is £5,000, down from £6,000 in his first season at stud.

The guesswork is even greater when using first-crop foal sires, but among those who deserve mention are champion sprinter Sakhee’s Secret. Whitsbury Manor Stud has brought his fee down to £5,500, but as the stud reported in December’s issue, it has has had no problems filling his book to date. The Diadem Stakes scorer Haatef, whose fee at Derrinstown Stud has been adjusted downwards from €6,500 to €4,000.

As a high-class sprinter and an outcross for Northern Dancer and Mr. Prospector mares, Assertive is should have garnered plenty of support from breeders. His fee is at Throckmorton Stud is £4,000.

“Mickley Stud inmate Multiplex had only five foals go through the ring last year, but three sold with a very eyecatching average of 17,500gns

“

Three Valleys

Tally-Ho Stud - Sires 2010

TALLY-HO STUD, MULLINGAR, CO. WESTMEATH, IRELANDTel 04493-48450. Fax 04493-42807. E-Mail [email protected]

Contact Tony O’Callaghan (Mob 086-2424416) or Roger O’Callaghan (Mob 087-9690629) www.tallyhostud.com

Vendors of Gr1 winners - BUSHRANGER, KINGSGATE NATIVE, MYBOYCHARLIE, LAHALEEB.

RECORD BREAKING SON OF DANETIMEDEFEATED 114 GROUP-LISTED WINNERS

RATED 120 BY TIMEFORM1st yearlings 2010

BALTIC KING

CHINEUR

KODIAC MR DINOS

BUSHRANGER

CHEVALIER

RED CLUBS

A TOP CLASS SPRINTER WON GR2 KING’S STAND S. TIMEFORM ANNUAL 123

DAM WARDARA - STAKES WINNERA Leading European 1st crop sire in 2009 (14 winners).

Standing at HARAS DES GRANGES, France

GR1 SPRINTING SON OF DANEHILL 1/2 BROTHER TO INVINCIBLE SPIRIT

DAM RAFHA - GR1 WINNER 1st CropYearlings sold for 60,000 Gns (2) in 2009

EUROPEAN CHAMPION - CLASSIC WINNERTIMEFORM ANNUAL 124GR1 WINNER OF 6 RACE

BY DESERT KING (by DANEHILL)

CHAMPION 2-Y-O in ENGLAND & FRANCEWON GR1 PRIX MORNY& GR1 MIDDLE PARK S.

(both in Record Times).Highest rated son of DANETIME

A TOP CLASS GR1 2-Y-O BY DANEHILL1/2 BROTHER TO VIRGINIA WATERS (GR1)

Sire of the brilliant 2yo MONSIEUR CHEVALIERFamily of champions DUBAWI, IN THE WINGS

GR1 WINNING SPRINTER BY RED RANSOMTIMEFORM ANNUAL 125 - WON GR1 SPRINT CUP,

DAM STAKES WINNERFAMILY OF PETONG, MONSUN

First foals sold for E82,000 in 2009.

Project2 13/01/2010 12:21 Page 1

nz feature ric wylie

Wylie working the world overAmy Bennett meets bloodstock consultant Ric Wylie, an Australian based in New Zealand who buys horses in England

gLOBALISATION is increasingly the byword of racing and breeding, with the shuttle stallion movement and horses racing and travelling around the globe. Now

more than ever it is necessary to pay close attention to the industry the world over.

One man with a foot successfully planted in each hemisphere is Ric Wylie, whose role as Tattersalls’ New Zealand representative sees him attending sales in Newmarket throughout the year for a variety of clients, as well as promoting the sales overseas, and running his own highly successful bloodstock consultancy business in New Zealand.

In a career spanning over 30 years, Wylie has worked in all areas of the industry from stud groom, stallion man and in yearling preparation to stud management and bloodstock consultancy.

During his years buying horses, many highlights stand out. Among them was the recommendation that Gerald Leigh bought the New Zealand-bred Group 2-winning Centaine filly Sixty Seconds, third in the New Zealand Derby (G1). The mare went on to Group 1 glory in Australia, becoming Leigh’s sole southern hemisphere stakes winner. She also landed a Grade 3 in America.

Wylie has also, unsurprisingly, enjoyed much success with horses purchased from Tattersalls, having been a regular at Park

Paddocks for 11 years now. Luminaries bought include the 40,000gns

purchase Youhadyourwarning, who went on to score five consecutive victories in the southern hemisphere; the Sadler’s Wells filly Sabia for whom Wylie paid just 30,000gns prior to the Group 1 glory of her brother Saddex; the Lomitas mare Zaza Top, whose son Zazou finished third in last season’s Criterium de Saint-Cloud (G1); Western Flame, who was bought on behalf of breeder Lorna Moore and whose Zabeel filly Heat Haze was a recent winner of the Listed Marton Cup in New Zealand as well as last season’s Park Hill Stakes (G2) heroine The Miniver Rose. She was purchased on behalf of Peter Carrick’s Lakeview resources and will now be aimed at a 2010 Cup campaign in Australia.

Brought up in Adelaide, South Australia, Wylie began his lifelong love of horses via the Pony Club and hunting as a teenager.

“I wanted to be a vet, but my marks at

school were always frustrating so I decided to work on horse studs, working with yearlings and stallions,” he explains. “After a couple of years, my father said ‘well if you’re going to make a career of this you better go to agricultural school’. So I went to agricultural college, which gave me a diploma in horse management.”

Armed with his new qualification, Wylie returned to preparing yearlings and was put in charge of a daughter of the champion racemare Maybe Mahal by the Group 1-winning stallion Raffindale. The yearling topped the filly section of the 1981 sale in Melbourne at A$150,000. For Wylie the sale presented the opportunity that would lead the 22-year-old Australian to his enduring connection with New Zealand.

“Nelson Bunker-Hunt’s general manager Jim Shannon saw me at Melbourne and asked if I’d be interested in going to New Zealand to be their yearling manager. I had a wonderful two years there while Bunker-

“I wanted to be a vet, but my marks at school were always frustrating so I decided to work on horse studs, working with yearlings and stallions

“




Hunt was still in his prime,” explains Wylie. Bunker-Hunt, whose northern

hemisphere thoroughbreds included such greats as Dahlia, Vaguely Noble, and Empery, founded the Waikato Stud in 1977. Now owned by the Chittick family, Waikato is currently one of the leading breeding operations in Australasia: it broke the record for the number of Group 1 homebred winners produced in a season at six and is home to such stallions as Pins and O’Reilly.

Following his stint at Waikato, Wylie travelled first to America, where he honed his stallion skills at Gainesway working with Bunker-Hunt’s stallions, then to Britain and Ireland before returning to his homeland to run Heritage Stud in Western Australia.

“It was a public company and unfortunately went the way of most public companies in the 1980s, so I found myself back in New Zealand having an interview with Peter Vela. I ended up managing Pencarrow Stud for three years, only returning to Australia on the death of my father,” he says.

Back in Australia, Wylie managed a stud in Victoria owned by Moonee Valley racecourse chairman Norman Carlyon and

billionaire Malaysian business man Ananda Krishnan. For Krishnan, he also reorganised the Malaysian National Stud, which, 25 years later, he still continues to advise

After five years in Australia, Wylie once more “jumped the ditch” back to New Zealand.

“Towards the end of the 80s, I was lucky enough to meet Ivan Allan, who at that stage was training in Singapore. He wanted to set up a base for his young horses in New Zealand and so I went into partnership with him and we purchased a smallholding in Matamata and ran it as a breaking and pre-training yard.”

The most successful alumni to pass through the Wylie-Allan venture was undoubtedly Holy Grail, a New Zealand-bred son of Deputy Governor, who was successful in the 1999 Hong Kong Derby (G1) and who also once defeated the great Fairy King Prawn.

Having married Robyn, a Kiwi, and started a family, Wylie remained in New Zealand after winding-up the partnership with Allan, taking on the role of Central Districts area manager for New Zealand Bloodstock, before moving to the auction

house’s base in Karaka, South Auckland, as sales co-ordinator.

Wylie spent five years with NZB before the opportunity presented itself to return to farm management when the Duke and Duchess of Bedford branched out their Bloomsbury Stud operation into New Zealand, founding a stud in Matamata. Wylie spent eight years running Bloomsbury before the death of Robin, the Duke of Bedford, led to the eventual sale of the New Zealand operation.

“I still ran a small consultancy alongside my work at Bloomsbury so it was a natural progression to go out on my own, and I have been for four years now,” smiles Wylie.

“The primary part of my business is the consultancy work that I do for Tattersalls, getting people to go up to the sale, whether it be Chris Waller going up for the horses-in-training sale or a Hong Kong owner going to the two-year-old sale. I procure people to go to the sales as well as buying there for clients.”

Wylie’s role as Tattersalls’ representative in New Zealand was prompted by his connection with Bloomsbury.

“The present Duke [Andrew] is on the

“

Ric Wylie: has a foot in both hemispheres

“December and July are the primary sales I attend, but with the growing

interest in English blood both the horses-in-training and yearling

sales are becoming more of a target



board of directors with Tattersalls and he thought I’d make a good representative for the company down here,” he says, “and with my long-term connection with Asia it was a natural progression to branch out to there.

“December and July are the primary sales I attend, but with the growing interest in English blood both the horses-in-training and yearling sales are becoming more of a target.”

While buying breeding stock may have been Wylie’s initial brief in the early days of his Newmarket shopping excursions, the increasing internationalisation of racing has seen his global client base seeking horses of all ages from Park Paddocks.

A prime example is Dr Jim Walker. The Scotsman, who has his main point of business in Hong Kong, races his horses mainly in the UK with William Jarvis. Walker’s New Zealand-bred horses tend to race in Hong Kong, but Wylie now helps Walker purchase horses to race in Britain – they are planning to attend this year’s Craven Breeze-Up Sale – in order to select horses to race initially in Britain before hopefully progressing to campaigns in Hong Kong.

Wylie is also seeing increasing business from Antipodean owners and trainers seeking European-bred horses in training in order to target the plethora of Australian staying races.

“Joe Walls, chairman of New Zealand Bloodstock, always says that the English form has stood the test of time and it is

probably the strongest form in the world,” says Wylie. “Australian sprinters have been putting in a small dent, but it is still only a small dent and English form will stand up anywhere in the world.

“We’re starting to see more horses in training being bought to race in Australia because of the pre-dominance of prize-money in the country’s staying races.

“The progeny of Montjeu and High Chaparral are now keeping up the profile of the English stayers performing in our environment. There was always the inclination that they couldn’t, and the success of their progeny in our races has not been great.

“For instance, Sadler’s Wells in the early days wasn’t considered a stallion capable of producing sires down under. Scenic struggled, although he came good later, but now we have the likes of Montjeu and High Chaparral, and trainers are also now probably becoming more attuned as to the best way to train a Sadler’s Wells.”

With the massive influx of European blood into Australasia due to the shuttle stallion phenomenon, it would perhaps have been logical to expect Antipodean interest in purchasing breeding stock or racing prospects from the northern hemisphere to have tailed off. Wylie knows that is far from the case, although careful shopping is obviously required.

“There’s no point taking coals to Newcastle so we don’t go looking for pedigrees that we can get here,” he admits. “Buying from the likes of the Aga Khan, Darley, Juddmonte [for whom Wylie manages its southern hemisphere affairs] and Fresnay-Le-Buffard allows you to buy into families that have kept working and hopefully will carry on. It costs so much to ship a horse to the southern hemisphere that the horse has to be worth buying.”

Although the number of shuttle stallions making the annual trip south has dropped somewhat from the pre-equine influenza high point, Wylie believes there is no curtailment in enthusiasm for these seasonal visitors.

“If we are looking to buy stallions outright, we are having to compete with America and Ireland. With our dollar you can’t do that so shuttling made horses, who were economically out of reach, suddenly become available,” he explains.

“However with the huge influx of international blood that has come down

over the years, the colonial stallion is now more than capable of holding his own. We’ve Redoute’s Choice, Encosta de Lago, O’Reilly, and Zabeel – it’s very hard for horses to come down and compete against them on their home turf and I think that’s one of the reasons why we haven’t seen quite so many [recently],” continues Wylie.

“Obviously the sire-line that everyone is chasing now is a son of Oasis Dream. Green Desert has proven through Cape Cross and Volksraad that he works in New Zealand. We’re still looking for the right Mr. Prospector to come down here as well,and if taking Tale Of The Cat, well, his NZ crops are as good as any he’s had anywhere else in the world so you’d have to believe that the right son of Storm Cat works here.”

Although Australian by birth, Wylie has a strong affection and respect for the thoroughbred industry in New Zealand.

“New Zealand-breds are doing very well in Australia. However, the New Zealand-trained horse is not so prevalent as it used to be. Now we breed for export and we buy for export. The first cut of our quality colts are sold for export, and the second cut, once they go to the trials, are probably sold for export too. Quite often only a very few colts will be retained to race, although we have plenty of quality fillies. Most trainers don’t survive without selling some of the horses out of their stable every year.”

Even so, Wylie firmly believes that the New Zealand-bred has a place on the international stage. As he explains: “New Zealand is the greatest thoroughbred nursery in the world. The saying is it has the rainfall of Ireland, the fertility of Holland, and the sunshine of Florida rolled into one.”

“

“New Zealand is the greatest thoroughbred nursery in the world. The saying is that the country has the rainfall of Ireland, the fertility of Holland, and the sunshine of Florida rolled into one

Oasis Deam: his sons are now being keenly sought after Down Under

Enquiries: Terry or Margaret Holdcroft or Mark Pennell,Bearstone Stud, Market Drayton, Shropshire TF9 4HF, EnglandOffice: 44 (0)1630 647197 Home: 44 (0)1270 812345 Mobile: 44 (0)7974 948755e: [email protected] w: www.bearstonestud.co.ukor Martin Percival. Tel: 44 (0)1284 735322Mob: 44 (0)7810 812553 e: [email protected]

The Leading Sire of 2yo’s in 2009 (% Stakes winners to runners)

FIREBREAKGROUP 1 MILLIONAIRE MILER - GROUP 1 SIREExcellent start at stud with 2 Stakes winners from his first small crop

HEARTS OF FIRE - dual Group winner, Gran Criterium Gr.1 (beating Breeders’ Cup Juvenile winner Vale of York, rated 118 on International Classification)ELECTRIC FEEL - Radley S LR, 2nd Oh So Sharp Stakes Gr.3, etc

2nd crop yearlings sold for up to 100,000 gns (John Ferguson Bloodstock)

Fee for 2010: £3,000 October 1st SLF

First 2yo’s in 2010

INDESATCHELCLASSIC-PLACED DUAL GROUP WINNERFirst yearlings by the son of Danehill Dancer sold for €41,000, £37,800, £30,000, £28,000,etc

Fee for 2010: £3,000 October 1st SLF

Standing his first season 2010

MAJOR CADEAUXTOP CLASS SPRINTER / MILER AND MULTIPLE GROUP WINNERGroup 2 winning miler and Royal Ascot 2yo Timeform 121By the outstanding stallion and sire of sires Cadeaux Genereux“...being a Group 2 winner of the Sandown Mile and a dual Group 3 winner, he has a CV that ought to appeal to breeders...he has such a wonderful temperament” Richard Hannon

Fee for 2010: £3,500 October 1st No Foal Free Return

Now making his mark as a Broodmare sire

MIND GAMESCHAMPION 3YO SPRINTER - GROUP 1 BROODMARE SIRESire of the winners of 340 races and total earnings of over £2.7 million including ALWAYS HOPEFUL, ROMANTIC MYTH, ON THE BRINK, etc

Fee for 2010: £1,500 October 1st

STALLIONS FOR 2010The Source of Speed

NB Only the produce of British-based stallions are eligible for Breeders’ Prizes

Bearstone Roster ITB 02-10:ITB latest! 18/1/10 16:11 Page 1

nz feature karaka


FOR CAMBRIDGE-BASED, New Zealand bloodstock agent Dean Hawthorne there’s no better place in the thoroughbred world to go about doing business than at Karaka in Auckland.

Hawthorne believes that New Zealand Bloodstock’s state-of-the art facility offers buyers the perfect stage from which to view and purchase young racing talent.

“It’s the best complex in the world both for the vendor and the buyer – the lay-out and the facilities are just top-class,” says the agent.

Karaka becomes the arena for all the major domestic and international players when the National Yearling Sale series opens at the complex on February 1. And Hawthorne feels that this year’s renewal should see a decent resumption of business activity.

“The way the New Zealand horses have been going, the Premier Sale will be as strong as ever,” he says. “The Australians, in particular, will always want our horses and they’ll be out in force again.”

Hawthorne will again be active in all three divisions of the sale, although maybe not quite to the extent of previous years.

“One of my main clients, Jonathan Munz,

won’t be as strong as the last two years,” he admits. “We might look at a well-bred filly, but he’s now breeding a large number of foals each year and that was always the plan.”

The Victorian-based Munz and Hawthorne have built a strong association and enjoyed a good deal of success with their Karaka purchases.

Among them have been Group 3 Carbine Club Stakes winner Zacroona, a NZ$450,000 son of Zabeel, and the dual Group 3 winner Singalong.

Kincaple, a multiple winner by Pentire, was a NZ$150,000 buy, while Larry’s Never Late has been another shrewd Pentire purchase. The son of the stakes-winning Zabeel mare Laebeel was snapped up for $77,500.

Larry’s Never Late has won nearly A$250,000 and the four-year-old competed creditably against the best of his generation last season.

“He ran in three Derbies and was unlucky in Queensland,” says Hawthorne.

Larry’s Never Late finished sixth in the VRC Derby and fourth in South Australia before his third in the Queensland Derby.

“They say you get a Group 1 horse every 10 years and he might have been ours!” smiles Hawthorne.

He will be purchasing on behalf of clients,

“It’s the best complex in the world”Paul Vettise meets bloodstock agent Dean Hawthorne and vendor Jo Wilding of Te Mania Thoroughbreds ahead of Karaka’s Yearling Sale

“The way the New Zealand horses have been going the Premier Sale will be as strong as ever. The Australians, in particular, will always want our horses and they’ll be out in force again

“

The Buyer: Dean Hawthorne

and himself in the Premier, Select and Festival Sales at Karaka.

“I usually buy 12 to 15, but it might be eight to 10 this year, although one phone call can change that.

“I do have one client who is getting back into racing having been missing for a few years and he’ll start off slowly again.

“I’ve always said K2 is the best value sale in Australia and I’ll buy at all prices.

“I often buy on spec – and there’s always a likely horse worth looking at after the sale as well.”

A prime example of Hawthorne’s eye for talent at the lower end of the market is the Istidaad gelding Captious.


nz feature karaka

“Mick Price wanted to buy a horse on a limited budget and I bought him Captious for NZ$40,000. The horse has gone on to win more than half a million in Melbourne.”

Another shrewd Hawthorne move was the NZ$6500 he paid for a son of Rusty Spur at the 2007 Festival Sale.

The colt trialled in New Zealand before joining expatriate Kiwi trainer Bruce Marsh in Singapore where, racing as Palambaro, he has been a multiple winner.

Hawthorne began his exhaustive search to

fill his Karaka orders before Christmas.“I saw 200 yearlings in earlt December

and then got back from the Gold Coast sale to do another 500,” he says.

“I’ve also got catalogues back 10 or 15 years and a lot of data to refer to back in the office. I do a lot of screening work for Australians as well so I’m not always down as the buyer.”

From Anzac Lodge in Cambridge, Hawthorne also operates a busy breaking-in and pre-training operation that dovetails

successfully with his bloodstock business.“A lot of my Australian clients buy a

staying type of horse and leave them with us in New Zealand for 12 months or longer,” he says. “We’ve got breakers and pre-trainers and a spelling farm at Matangi.”

Hawthorne, who further acts in a consultancy role for clients, also trades in his own right at Karaka.

“I buy my own ready-to-runners mainly at the bottom end of the market with a view to selling on.”

TRANSPORTING YEARLINGS from the South Island to Karaka on the North Island might pose a few logistical problems, but for successful North Canterbury breeder Jo

Wilding it’s all worth the effort.Under her Te Mania Thoroughbreds

banner she has a long and proud history of selling Group 1 winners and black-type performers at the National Yearling Sales from her Parnassus base.

“We’re between Cheviot and Kaikoura, just north from Christchurch on the east coast of the South Island and with our micro-climate you can grow anything!” laughs Wilding.

“We can look out to the snow on the mountains and across to the sea and it’s just fantastic.”

It is an ideal environment for the breeding and raising of quality thoroughbreds, even if shipping the bluebloods north requires a good deal of planning and execution.

“It’s a huge exercise, but you’ve got to do it and we get them up there in one go – we don’t have a big staff,” explains the vendor.

“They go up to Westbury Stud a week before the sale and it can become a bit frantic to organise everything.”

Wilding has enjoyed a lifelong

association with thoroughbreds and her entry into the ranks of broodmare ownership came on a day she’ll never forget.

“As a wedding present my uncle gave me two broodmares – he was a breeder and had a stud – and it all started from there,” she smiles.

One of the earliest breeding success stories Wilding shared in was the crack performer Analie, who won 16 races and five at Group 1 level in Australia. “She was probably one of the best southern hemisphere mares ever,” says Wilding.

The winners have flowed ever since with Group 1 gallopers Zonda, Joker’s Wild, Surprize Surprize and Kaaptan all bred or sold by Te Mania.

Wilding has also successfully developed her own families over the years with two yearling purchases proving particularly inspired buys.

Gone With The Wind and Curds ‘N’ Whey were selected and secured as youngsters and both went on to become outstanding broodmares.

The former produced Singapore Derby winner Man Of Honour and Group 2 PJ O’Shea Stakes winner Magnolia Hall before a mating with Zabeel resulted in Group 1 New Zealand Derby winner winner Zonda.

It is also the family of Surprize Surprize, who was successful in the Group 1 New Zealand Thoroughbred Breeders’ Stakes.

Gone With the Wind was also responsible for producing Te Mania’s highest-priced yearling to go through the Karaka ring. Her daughter Proteaceae, an unraced Kaapstad mare, produced an O’Reilly colt in 2003 which subsequently sold for NZ$300,000.

Named Win Practioner, he ran successfully in Hong Kong where he won three times and was Group 1 placed.

Wilding currently has ownership interests in his half-brothers Lord Pindari (Pins), who has been a multiple winner in Australia, and in Chapero, a promising son of High Chaparral.

Curds ‘N’ Whey left behind a total of nine

“It can become a bit frantic to organise”The Seller: Jo Wilding

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winners, including the Group 3 Canterbury Gold Cup winner Whey To Go, with the Group 1 Japan Racing Association Classic winner Del Coronado also from the family.

Yet another prized Wilding broodmare has been Belle Nuit, dam of the Group 2 Rich Hill Mile winner Fiscal Madness and the multiple winner and stakes-placed Penrickson.

Wilding’s small racing team also includes Fiscal Madness’s half-sister Fiscal Folly (Align), who has been a winner from John Sargent’s stable.

She has a further interest in Jokers Wild’s half-brother Ace Of Hearts with Mike and

Paul Moroney and has retained a share in their dam, the Rory’s Jester mare Miss Rory.

They are owned in a successful partnership with Charles Wong and Bee Teck Hoong, who operate a property managed by Kelvin Mahood across the river from Te Mania.

“They are both from Singapore, but Mr Wong spends most of his time in China where he has major business interests,” explains Wilding. “We work together as a group and it’s gone pretty well.”

That’s putting it modestly as the partnership – WH Holdings – have also bred rising star and Group 2 Couplands Mile

winner Wall Street, Group 3 Red Anchor Stakes winner Millbank and Dunedin Guineas winner Miss Millbrook.

At Karaka this year, a half-brother to Jokers Wild by Savabeel and a half-brother by Elusive City to Millbank will be sold under the Te Mania banner through the Premier Sale. The Select Sale consignment will also number colts by Captain Rio, Lucky Unicorn, No Excuse Needed and Postponed, while both a son and daughter of Volksraad are due to be offered.

In the Festival session, Te Mania will offer sons by Elusive City, Keeper, Perfectly Ready and Remind and a filly by Perfectly Ready.

Darci BrahmaDanehill – Grand Echezeaux (Zabeel)A NZ$1 million yearling and a superstar on the trackStood at the Oaks Stud in 2009 for NZ$20,000 + GSTCatalogued: Premier 48, Select 202007 Breeding Stats:Mares covered 161; Living Foals 114; Fee NZ$30,000 + GSTDARCI BRAHMA was New Zealand’s rockstar of racing. A NZ$1.1million yearling with top bloodlines, he put in an abundance of black-type performances.

The hype that surrounded Darci Brahma as a yearling when he entered the Karaka sale ring in 2004 was almost unprecedented. The industry knew that the opportunity to secure a son of Danehill was limited, the great sire having died the year before, and not only was lot 509 by Danehill, but he was out of the Australasian Oaks winner Grand Echezeaux (Zabeel) and from the immediate family of the great Caulfield/Melbourne Cup heroine Ethereal.

The New Zealand breeding industry waited with baited breath for the prized colt to make his raceday debut – and he did not disappoint securing his future as a commercial sire even before the end of his juvenile year by winning the Group 1 TJ Smith Stakes.

His three-year-old year saw him win the Group 1 NZ 2,000 Guineas before beating the older horses in the Group 1 Otaki-Maori WFA Stakes.

He then proved his ability again in Australia when second in the sire-making Australian Guineas. He was beaten then

by a poorly bred animal that looked more Hereford bull than thoroughbred. Seven further Group 1 wins by Apache Cat went some way to justifying that defeat.

At four, Darci returned to sprinting and his Group 1 battles with the great mare Seachange is now stuff of legend.

The breeding syndicate behind the horse – a raft of major studs had a slice of the pie – retired Darci after two back-to-back Group 1 wins in the spring of 2007.

At stud Darci has been immensely popular, his large and illustrious ownership team ensuring hefty books of blue-blooded mares.

Like the huge majority of Danehill’s most successful sire sons, Darci was a precocious juvenile who could show a lethal turn of foot

over sprint distances.They say one in ten stallions makes it as a

successful sire, but with all that he has going for him, no bookie would be offering those odds for Darci.

Fast ‘n’ FamousRedoute’s Choice – Zalinda (Zabeel)Winner of six of 13 races, including the Gilgai Stakes (G3)Stood at Waikato Stud in 2009 for NZ$10,000 + GSTCatalogued: Premier 11; Select 24; Festival 142007 Breeding StatsMares covered 129; Living Foals 87; Fee NZ$15,000 + GSTEVER SINCE Redoute’s Choice emerged onto the Australasian scene as the logical successor to his breed-shaping sire Danehill, his entire sons have been hot property.

Australian studs weren’t alone in their

First-season sireswith progeny catalogued in the Premier and Select Sessions at the National Yearling Sale

Darci Brahma: the rockstar of

racing is a son of Danehill from a top-class family of Classic fillies.

Darci did not disappoint on the track, and

expectations are high for his future

as a stallion


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quest for Redoute’s Choice sire sons, and Waikato Stud threw its hat into the ring in 2006, buying into the appropriately named Fast ‘n’ Famous early in his racing career with the intention of aiming the exciting colt at Australia’s elite level.

Fast ‘n’ Famous clearly displayed his Group 1 ability, but things never quite came together for what would have been a deserved Group 1 win – a second in the Group 1 Galaxy Stakes the closest he came to the elusive top level victory.

Perhaps it is a lucky break for breeders that the stallion didn’t pick up that Group 1 victory, you could be sure he wouldn’t be standing at 10 grand if he had!

Nevertheless, Fast ‘n’ Famous retired to Waikato Stud in 2007 as the winner of six of his 13 starts, with a win in the Group 3 Gilgai Stakes a career highlight.

The stallion hails from a prolific New Zealand family: his stakes-winning dam Zalinda (Zabeel) is a daughter of Group 1 Railway Stakes winner Alynda (Nassau) and he is a half-brother to three further stakes winners in Alinsky, Capestad and Altrista. Further back the family is both massive and successful with Turffontein, Penny Gem, Hit The Roof and Global News just a few of the family’s recent Group 1 stars.

Fast ‘n’ Famous has just about every ingredient to make it as a successful stallion, yet such has been the success of Waikato Stud stallions in recent years, the sire has been perhaps overshadowed by his barnmates and has ducked under the radar of a few breeders.

The sire dropped from covering a vigorous 129 mares in 2007 to almost half as many the following season. he will be an interesting one to watch

Gallant GuruMontjeu – Proud Halo (Don’t Say Halo)Melbourne Group 2 winner over 1m4f and 1m5fStood at White Robe Lodge in 2009 for NZ$4,000 + GSTCatalogued: Select 3; Festival 32007 Breeding StatsMares covered 76; Living Foals 45; Fee NZ$4,000 + GSTGallant Guru is arguably currently the best-value new stallion standing in New Zealand – and possibly Australia.

Pedigree, ability, looks and opportunity can all be checked off the list when assessing Gallant Guru and he’s apears to be producing stunning-looking offspring to boot.

Everyone will be aware of the turnaround

in form achieved by the New Zealand-bred progeny of Montjeu in recent seasons. The sire has been hitting the nail on the head in the northern hemisphere since day one, but Down Under he was like Mark Richardson opening for the Black Caps, slow to begin but a star by the end of his innings!

Gallant Guru was effectively the “first boundary” Montjeu hit in Australasia, the colt being his first stakes winner when he took the Listed SAJC Hill-Smith Stakes in Adelaide in 2005.

The progress for Montjeu was relatively slow right up until White Robe Lodge picked up Gallant Guru for stud duties after his hugely impressive wins in the Sandown Classic (G2) and the Queen Elizabeth Stakes (G3) in November of 2006.

Montjeu wasn’t the fashion back then, yet the sire’s bloodlines have crossed wonderfully well with that of White Robe luminaries Mellay and Noble Bijou. Simply put, ever since Gallant Guru stepped onto the southern pastures of the Mosgiel property of the Andertons, Montjeu has been on an unstoppable roll. The Group 1 winners Nom Du Jeu, Roman Emperor, Sharvasti and Tavistock are now credited to the sire and in all Montjeu has produced 20 stakes winners from his 288 NZ-bred runners.

Perhaps the greatest appeal of Gallant Guru at stud is the brilliance he showed early in his career before his 1m4f wins at four. He had the get up and go to be stakes-placed at two – a rare feat for an NZ-bred Montjeu – and run second in the Listed SAJC Matrice Stakes over 6f as an autumn three-year-old.

The sire is out of the Don’t Say Halo

mare Proud Halo, adding a bit of pep from that world-class Halo sire-line, while his half-brother Gold Guru was the champion Australian three-year-old of 1998.

Third dam-sire of Gallant Guru is the still influential champion sire Le Filou, giving the pedigree some Kiwi flavor.

Gallant Guru has the potential to raise White Robe Lodge and South Island breeding back to its former glory days.

Lucky UnicornRedoute’s Choice – La Bamba (Last Tycoon)Unbeaten juvenile in HK and Australian stakes winnerStood at Cambridge Stud in 2009 for NZ$6,000 + GSTCatalogued: Premier 9; Select 18; Festival 152007 Breeding Stats Mares covered 141; Living Foals 100; Fee NZ$8,000 + GSTTWO-YEAR-OLD racing isn’t the main focus in Hong Kong, but, nevertheless, when a youngster can remain unbeaten in his two juvenile starts in the Asian centre, it’s worth taking note of. And when the colt is by Redoute’s Choice out of a Group 1-producing Last Tycoon mare, you can bet there’d be a few stud masters following the horse.

Lucky Unicorn was sold by Arrowfield Stud at the 2004 Australian Easter Yearling Sale for A$300,000, at a time when Redoute’s Choice was yet to reach his super-star status. He went on to pick up three wins and two seconds from eight starts in Hong Kong.

At four, Lucky Unicorn returned to Australia under the guidance of astute trainer Tony Vasil. The entire commenced what turned out to be a highly respectable summer campaign in the 2006/07 season, the feature being a 2l win in the Chester Manifold Stakes (L).

Interest in the entire upon his retirement was high, but it was Cambridge Stud, along with a syndicate of New Zealand studs, that secured the horse. While Lucky Unicorn’s race record doesn’t pit him quite amongst the best, his bloodlines are impeccable.

Since the stallion went to stud in 2007, his three-quarters brother Inspiration (Flying Spur) has claimed two of Hong Kong’s feature Group 1 sprints, while damsire Last Tycoon has reached new heights in the broodmare sire’s role.

Second dam of Lucky Unicorn is the Lunchtime mare Party, a mare that has proved highly prolific in the breeding shed. She is dam of the Group 1 winners Masked Party (AJC Galaxy Hcp) and Festal (WRC Telegraph Hcp), while her daughter Awards

Montjeu’s son gallant guru

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Ceremony is dam of Dracula, a three-time Group 1 winner.

The immediate pedigree is impressive, but it is perhaps a few generations further back that attracted the shrewd Sir Patrick Hogan to the stallion. Like Sir Tristram – the stallion that launched an empire for Hogan – Lucky Unicorn boasts an influential female on both sides of his pedigree. Best In Show, the fourth dam of Redoute’s Choice, also appears in the pedigree of La Bamba as the second dam of her grandsire, Try My Best.

This, combined with an almost unequalled opportunity at stud, will mean Lucky Unicorn will be a sire to keep an eye on when his first two-year-olds reach racetrack at the end of 2010.

Perfectly ReadyMore Than Ready – Elle Duccio (Danehill)Group 1-winning son of 2yo sire More Than ReadyStood at Brighthill Farm in 2009 for NZ$12,000 + GSTCatalogued: Premier 8; Select 35; Festival 202007 Breeding Stats Mares covered 135; Living Foals 95; Fee NZ$12,000 + GSTPeRfeCTLy ReaDy is a stallion who has been placed and positioned in the market with pin-point accuracy.

Bred and raced by Vinery Stud, the blood of Southern Halo – grandsire of Perfectly Ready – was just too thick on the ground at the Hunter Valley stud upon Perfectly Ready’s retirement; More Than Ready himself standing at the outfit, along with his VRC Derby-winning son Benicio and Southern Halo sire son Dubleo.

Looking for a suitable home for the stallion, the team at Vinery settled on one of New Zealand’s most progressive studs, Nick

and anne-Marie King’s Brighthill farm, located just north of Cambridge.

and just like White Robe Lodge with Gallant Guru, Brighthill farm were able secure Perfectly Ready while More Than Ready was going through something of a lean patch. Like many successful sires, More Than Ready’s stud career in australia can be broken into chapters, the first being the initial impact of the stallion from his first couple of crops – Benicio, Carry On Cutie and Perfectly Ready himself coming from the sire’s initial get.

Through the second chapter the winners still came, but the stakes winners dried up. To illustrate this, a whopping 12 stakes winners came from the sire’s first crop, while just seven came from the following three combined.

It was during this second chapter that Brighthill farm picked up Perfectly Ready, whose wins included the Blue Diamond Prelude (G3) as a two-year-old, the Goodwood Stakes (G1) against the older horses at three and the Harolds 101 Stakes (G3) at four.

as the near-black stallion commenced stud duties in 2007, chapter three kicked into gear for his sire as the crops conceived while that initial crop was working its magic, hit the racetracks. More Than Ready reaped the rewards of the improved quality of mare and he hasn’t looked back since.

Now arguably australia’s most accomplished sire of juveniles, More Than Ready has stepped up to the big time, entering that rare club of sires whose progeny can hit the seven-figure mark in the sale ring.

from the Danehill mare elle Duccio, a

half-sister to the Golden Slipper winner Belle Du Jour, Perfectly Ready was a great catch for the “young’”Brighthill farm and his positioning in the New Zealand market at NZ$12,000 was a stroke of genius – evidenced by the 284 mares he covered in his first two seasons at stud.

Royal GemRoyal Academy – Tiffany’s Gem (Effervescing)Group 1-placed in the 2002 Hollywood DerbyStood 2009 season at Stoney Bridge for NZ$4,000 + GSTCatalogued: Select 2; Festival: 142007 Breeding Stats Mares covered 79; Living Foals 52; Fee NZ$4,000 + GSTROyaL aCaDeMy will go down as one of the great stalwart sires of the australasian industry. Perhaps, like our own Volksraad, his superb results as a sire have gone somewhat unrecognised, but he is of course, not only the most prolific producer of stakes winners currently at stud in australasia, but his tally of 154 black-type winners, places him well up with the world’s most successful-ever sires.

In australia, his 778 runners have to date produced 562 winners (72 per cent) and 71 stakes winners, and with a record like this, one could expect a plethora of sire sons to have emerged from his australian-bred progeny. However, only six have made it to stud duty and only one of these given a commercial opportunity, Bel esprit.

It wasn’t until 2007 when Stoney Bridge purchased and imported Royal Gem that New Zealand breeders were able to readily access the potency of Royal academy. While the american-bred and raced Royal Gem won’t go down as one of the most successful racehorses amongst the Royal academy offspring, his race record is sufficient and, at a NZ$4,000 service fee, he represents great value.

While he disappointed as an older horse, Royal Gem’s three-year-old season was top notch. He won his maiden at Santa anita before winning the mile Santa anita academy Road Stakes (L) on his second start. four further starts at three resulted in a win in the Bay Meadows Derby (G3) and a third Hollywood Derby (G1).

as a son of the stakes-winning effervescing mare Tiffany’s Gem, and with the great Secretariat as his second dam sire, Royal Gem was snapped up by Mike Tololi and his then stud manager Peter Jenkins to stand at the budding Stoney Bridge operation.

Perfectly Ready: the son of More Than Ready was

successful in a Group 3 at two

and in a Group 1 against

older horses at three.

He has been well-priced

at stud by Brighthill Farm

Josr Algarhoud b. Darshaan – Pont Aven (Try My Best)

Multiple Group winner, including the Group 2 Gimcrack Stakes, beating Bertolini

A prolific sire of Flat winners and now making a name for himself as a jumps sire.

Siring winners under both codes Fee 2010: £1,000 (nfnf 1st October)

Misu Bond b. Danehill Dancer – Hawala (Warning)

Exciting son of Danehill Dancer. Smart 6f sprinter – Listed winner at 2 and Group-placed at 3. Winner of Listed Free Handicap at Newmarket. Has produced some stunning high-quality foals.

First yearlings 2010 Fee 2010: £1,750 (1st October)

Rob Roy b/bn. Lear Fan – Camanoe (Gone West)

Winner over 7f and 8f, including the Group 2 Sandown Mile and Group 3 Joel Stakes. Top-class placed form in the Champion Stakes when second, and third in the Sussex Stakes

First foals 2010Fee 2010: £2,000 (1st October)

Milk It Mickb. Millkom – Lunar Music (Komaite)

European Champion 2-y-o. Winner of G1 Dewhurst Stakes at 2, beating Classic winners Haafhd, Bachelor Duke etc.. Also won G1 Frank E. Kilroe Mile from Cacique, Aragorn, etcgorn etc. First yearlings 2010 Fee 2010: On application

Hedgeholme Stud

Andrew Spalding Tel: 01325 730209 Mob: 07990 518751 [email protected] www.hedgeholmestud.co.uk Hedgeholme Stud, Winston, Darlington, Co. Durham DL2 3RS

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The marvel of Meydan


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Sally Duckett talks to Frank Gabriel, CEO of the Dubai Racing Club about the miracle that has taken place in the desert

The “infinity” pool at the top of the Meydan Hotel, overlooking the racecourse development


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Too big, too ambitious, just unrealistic said the doubters when the concept of the new Meydan racecourse was first unveiled in 2007. Those naysayers were delighted when their negative views seemed vindicated by Dubai’s economic difficulties last autumn. “It will never happen now,” they said.

But those non-believers were proved abjectedly wrong when the racecourse and grandstand were opened last month for the Dubai Carnival.

Although the ancillary plans for the Meydan City development have still to be finished – 2012 is the projected year – it is now full-steam ahead to the Dubai World Cup, which will probably be one of the biggest nights that the sport of horseracing will ever see.

You will have to think that the race and the opening ceremony will grab a few column inches in the wider press and so do something to help spread the gospel of horseracing – perhaps Meydan was not such a bad plan after all?A planner’s overview of the development. The covered Falcon car park (so named because of its shape) will take 9,000 vehicles


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FOR fRaNK GaBRIeL, CeO of the Dubai Racing Club, 2010 means more than just the beginning of a new decade. The new year has brought with it what must be seen as a

conclusion to what has possibly been the biggest project that he will undertake in his career – working with the development of the new Meydan racecourse in Dubai. But, as the line goes, the end is going to be just the beginning.

“The official opening of the grandstand and the racecourse is on March 27 on Dubai World Cup night, and while we have started using the new grandstand since the start of the Carnival last month, there is still some work ongoing until March,” says the US-born Gabriel.

“everything is where we hoped to be, the infrastructre is in and it is very exciting. We aim to make the Dubai World Cup night a comfortable experience for racegoers. The new falcon car park will take 9,000 vehicles, each gate will be clearly marked and people will be told where their destination will be.”

and once they are in, racegoers will be treated to a sumptuous evening of top-class racing and entertainment of the kind that can only be experienced in Dubai, along with the chance to watch racing from a futuristic grandstand and facilities that are without a world rival.

“The Meydan grandstand has a comfortable capacity for 60,000, but it is not until we actually get to use the facility that we will truly know how many people it will take or how it will be used,” explains Gabriel. “The old Nad al Sheba track used to hold around 40,000-45,000 people – that was including all the outside tents and extra villages.”

as ever with all things Dubai and despite the economic troubles the country has been experiencing, those attending the 15th Dubai World Cup, rather like venturing into the very best fun fare will be treated to the world’s biggest treats, and on a gigantic scale.

first, they will watch racing from the longest grandstand in the world, which at 1.6km long is an equivalent in length to 22 Boeing jumbo jets. for those of you who like your finer points of architecture apparently the grandstand has “a giant cantilevered crescent-shaped roof comprising solar and titanium panels that accentuate the structure’s technologically-advanced design”.

Racegoers will also be able to see the action up close from the world’s longest LeD television screen – something called a 110-by-10-metre magnum opus. The not-so-distant days of watching your racing through a pair of poorly focused and misty binoculars will be as though from another lifetime.

Visitors will be able to stay in the world’s first five-star trackside accommodation, the luxury Meydan Hotel, which has been

designed to curve alongside the track so that the majority of the 270 rooms look out on to the racecourse. extras include a spa facility, a swimming pool and a roof-top sun deck.

and, of course, racegoers will enjoy both their racing and off-piste entertainment – which could be in one of 10 racecourse restaurants, including the sky bubble bar capable of seating 4,500, in the relocated Godolphin gallery, at the raceside museum, watching a film in the IMAX cinema, on the four-kilometre canal, which will run from the Dubai Creek to the racecourse, or even at one of the “older” more passé Dubai leisure facilities – all under the shadow of the world’s tallest building, Burj Dubai (renamed Khalifa), which was opened to great fanfare in December.

and in typical Dubai fashion, this huge construction project does not stop at merely providing a racecourse and entertainment. further associated building developments, bringing offices and accommodation to the new town that is to become Meydan, have been segregated into three zones both geographically and conceptually.

Horizons is a mixed office and residential real estate area that the Meydan website claims will provide “a heady blend of

“The Meydan grandstand has a comfortable capacity for 60,000, but it is not until we actually get to use the facility that we will truly know how many people it will take or how it will be used ”

Frank Gabriel: is looking forward to Dubai World Cup night at the new Meydan racecourse

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residential, retail and commercial property, carefully positioned around a winding canal network”, Godolphin Parks will offer a “celebration of canal-front living”, while Metropolis will offer international blue-chip companies a chance to relocate into an exclusive environment.

Truly heady stuff – but plans that have been timed for staggered completion dates with the three associated projects not due to be finished until 2012. When things are planned in Dubai they get done – and particularly when it involves projects to confirm the country’s worldwide status – but even the arabic state has had to be realistic in its approach to this huge venture.

“There is further ongoing discussion and sales associated with the ancillary development,” says Gabriel. “The first job was to concentrate on the grandstand and the racecourse development because there was a pivotal date that we had to reach. But the whole concept will keep on growing and building. The idea is that the business centre and the grandstand and racecourse will work together.

“We have had a lot of interest already from organisations who are looking to use

the grandstand as a corporate facility all season – that is what we are aiming for, continued business all year.”

THe PROJeCT has not been without its hiccups – the original contractors were sacked in 2008 reportedly after it was felt that were not going to fulfil the commitment on deadline – and

while it might also be assumed that the well-documented financial issues in Dubai, which resulted in a bail-out loan of $10 billion from oil-rich abu Dhabi in December, would have caused some disruption of the Meydan road map, Gabriel dismisses that assumption.

“Not at all,” he asserts. “The development has not been compromised. The economic difficulties have affected the world and the Uae is now working hard to maintain its status and to stablise its economy.”

But despite all of this planning and projecting, the most important foundation block backing all of this almost surreal development is the horse, and our racing partners have not been forgotten.

State-of-the-art training facilities are in place for the strings of horses due to arrive

from around the world, while the new track has been in full use since the beginning of the Carnival. The turf track of 2,400m is outside the 1,750m all-weather track, which has been laid to the Michael Dickinson-designed and marketed Tapeta. although the number turf races has been reduced through the Carnival to protect the surface, the synthetic track has met to wide acclaim.

“We had a year of testing the surface on the training track and we had good results. There are issues with the use of synthetic surfaces in the US; not all the horsemen have bought into the concept and not all tracks are laying down synthetics – they are expensive items to install – but it fits our plan.

“The actual design of the track came after a lot of discussion aiming to produce the best experience for the horse and the racegoers. On Dubai World Cup night, many of the races are on the turf and we wanted to bring the action closer, hence the reason for putting the turf track on the outside. This also removed the need to cross over the synthetic course as at Nad al Sheba.

“We also wanted to get as much distance in as we could, as well as start the Dubai World Cup and the Sheema Classic in front

With the largest television screen in the world and the Dubai World Cup starting in front of the stands, racegoers will get a true slice of the action

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of the stands. This has all been achieved.”further, a 1200m straight has been

created, the Dubai Racing Club feeling that there is a niche for a straight sprint within the world of international racing so the Group 3 al Quoz Sprint has been moved from its former berth to World Cup night. It will be worth $1 million, and with the World Cup itself now carrying bumper prize-money of $10 million, the whole evening’s racing is worth a cool $26 million.

Gabriel reports that interest from worldwide trainers and owners in the run-up to the Carnival was stronger than in 2009, but he believes that last year was something of a transition year due to the economy. There has been good support from the “usual powerful strong stables” but also from some new names. In particular, interest from Japan is up and 27 individual horses from the country have registered to compete up to Super Thursday on March 4.

The usual World Cup pre-race extra entertainments will be on offer to visitors to Dubai – the arabian nights evening and the Breakfast With The Stars – and Gabriel reports that there has been a host of informal enquiries from those interested in travelling to Dubai for the World Cup extravaganza. However, the Dubai Racing Club is keen not to be relying too heavily on the “tourist” and wishes to target the domestic population, which is immensely keen on its racing, to go to Meydan too.

“The Dubai population is around 1.6 million, 20 per cent of which is in the local region, ex-pats and locals. The hope is to

push more of the local population in to visiting the races. We would hope that 80 per cent of our audience should be from the local community” he explains.

With both the ending of the initial building project and the beginning of a

new phase in Dubai racing on the horizon, Gabriel admits that it has been hard work, but one that has been achieved by a dedicated team. He is also anxious to get to phase two in the plans – the World Cup night – underway.

“We are all looking forward to getting out of the stalls and getting the World Cup night off the ground. This whole Meydan project is different – it is not just going to be opened and closed, it really is an ongoing plan.

“There have been some bumps in the road, but they were overcome and moving forward with such a project was always going to face issues. We have also made

some minor tweaks to the design as we have moved forward, but on the whole the reality is very close to the original plan.

“We have had a very hard-working team and everyone has put in a lot of hours. It has been a big project – a large project – with a

definite timeline that had to be met. “But when you have such a challenge to

meet, you accept it and give it the best of your ability.”

and above all Gabriel wants World Cup night to be a truly great night. “It starts with the horse, and the original plan for the first World Cups was to get the very best racehorses to Dubai. That concept holds true.

“If we can produce the best racing, as well as give people a great experience, both those inside and outside of the sport, by watching some great racing and having an excellent time while doing so, then we will be very happy.”

“We have had a very hard-working team and everyone has put in a lot of hours. It has been a big project – a huge project – with a definite timeline that had to be realised. But when you have such a challenge to meet, you accept it and give it the best of your ability ”

The old Nad Al Sheba track, with room for around 45,000 spectators, is no more. Is it now onwards and upwards to a crowd of 60,000 at Meydan?

feature crystal cup


Cheltenham CEO Edward Gillespie explains the background to the new pan-European cross-country race challenge, the Crystal Cup in which leading trainers can win points to win the Cup and prize-money of €10,000

Crystal gazing

feature crystal cup


How did the idea originate? How long has it taken to pull together? What issues to overcome? We have been working on this for over five years and have had meetings at various european venues to identify how we could connect the different european cross-country chases together.

each of the countries has a very different governance and funding structure, also every course is so different but experience has proved that there is an appetite for trainers and owners to campaign outside their domestic location.

How were the races decided upon? Why is The Festival cross-country race not included? each of the six countries came forward with

races that they felt were best suited to attract international participants. In Cheltenham’s case, the cross-country race that needs most promotion is the one which happens to be at the race meeting that we call the “International” in December.

If we can attract four or five horses from outside Britain and Ireland, that would help move that fixture further forward.

all the races in the Crystal Cup series were already in existence.

Are all the tracks much the same? Will full information about the tracks and fences be easy for trainers to get hold of?all the tracks are entirely unique to one another, which is part of the attraction of

The creators of the Crystal Cup

(from left to right) Paolo Micheli

(Merano, Italy), Edward Gillespie, Alain Peltier (Lion d’Angers, France), Philippe Foucher

(Lion d’Angers), and Mirek Petran

(Pardubice, Czech Republic)

Crystal gazing


feature crystal cup

Date Racecourse Location Race Distance Prize-money (€)07.02 Pau south-west France Prix Gaston De Bataille (L) 6,200m (3m7f) 65,00015.04 Fontainebleau south-east of Paris Prix Colonel Marlin 6,000m (2m7f) 50,00022.04 Punchestown Ireland La Touche Cup 6,800m (4m2f) 30,00015.05 Lion D’Angers west France Prix Anjou-Loire Challenge 7,300m (4m4f) 112,00031.08 Waregem Belgium Grand Steeple Chase of Flanders 4,600m (2m7f) 100,00005.09 Craon west France Prix Louis De Guebriant (L) 6,000m (3m6f) 75,00019.09 Merano northern Italy Cross delle Nazioni (Grand Cross) 6,000m (3m6f) 40,00010.10 Pardubice Czech Republic Velka Pardubika 6,600m (4m1f) 178,00019.11 Compiegne north France Grand Steeple Chase tbc 50,00010.12 Cheltenham England Cross Country Steeple Chase 6,200 m (3m 7f ) 25,000

The Crystal Cup

this form of steeple chasing. There are plenty of unknowns, but the horses that compete in cross-county chases adapt remarkably well to the different challenges.

full information on each of the races will be made available to the trainers, clips of each of the races will be on the website, www.crystalcup.org and DVD’s made available to trainers who enquire.

accommodation will be arranged by each hosting course

What is hoped to achieve by the initiative? The committee hopes to raise the profile of each of the 10 races and particularly the trainers and their teams.

Cross-country steeplechasing has already proved the best format for international steeplechasing competition

Was it not possible to bring together the various European nations in a similar format through more standard chase or hurdle racing? No, it has proved very difficult to encourage trainers to campaign hurdlers and chasers internationally as those horses tend to favour the obstacle with which they are most familiar.

The joy of cross-country chasing is the variety of the obstacles which seem to be literally taken in the horses’ stride.

Is this to have one overall sponsor for the prize-money? Has the prize-money been increased for each race or is it as it was? Sponsorship will be sourced locally by each course for their own races. It would be nice to think, should the challenge continue beyond 2010, a series sponsor or various commercial partners could join the party.

Prize-money for the races is already high

and has not been increased for the challenge.

Will the races be televised? Live broadcast coverage in many countries is extremely limited, but it is hoped this will encourage greater media coverage. They will all be on some sort of media platform like satellite. Cheltenham, Punchestown and Pardubice will be televised to their individual domestic markets.

Above, the leaders clear the brush fence Lion d’Angers, which stages the 4m4fPrix Anjou-Loire Challenge in May. Opposite,

Good Step and Nina Carberry (green) over Rubys Double Bank before going on to win

the La Touche at Punchestown last April

Is there not a fear that the same horses and trainers will just pot hunt the races? It would be fair to say that we all believe our own champions are naturally the best and will be successful.


feature crystal cup

Points mean prizesPoints will be awarded to sixth place in each race with bonus points awarded to competitors travelling from abroad.

Place Points Bonus points for foreign runners1st: 6 points +3 bonus points 2nd: 5 points +2.5 bonus points 3rd: 4 points +2 bonus points 4th: 3 points +1.5 bonus points 5th: 2 points +1 bonus point6th: 1 point + .5 bonus point

All runners in the final race at Cheltenham on December 10th will receive an additional 1 point bonus

And the prizes are?The Crystal Cup and €10,000 will be awarded to the trainer and stable that accumulate the most points during the series.

Additional presentations will be made to the winner of each race in the series and the horse and the rider who accumulate the most points during the 10-race series.

This will provide an opportunity for these champions to compete, even if they don’t have runners in the same races. This year will see the crowning of the first European cross-country trainer.

What are the entry parameters for each horse? What happens if entries break the safety limit i.e. balloting after travelling would not be popular!entry details will be unchanged and trainers will be alerted via the website.

Cheltenham has already checked that trainers who are in contention for the leading prizes will be able to have runners in the last race as it would be extremely disappointing to be excluded.

Have you received support from the trainers? all the trainers that we have spoken to are very keen to see the challenge prove to be successful as it adds a new dimension for them and their owners.

In the 15 years Cheltenham has been part of the cross-country circuit, a number of specialist trainers have emerged and it is expected that they will be taking most interest in the Crystal Cup.

feature crystal cup


Racing oRiginated in ireland in the 18th century when the first recorded race is alleged to have been the result of a wager in 1752 between Mr. cornelius o’callaghan and Mr. edmund Blake, who raced 4m across country from Buttevant church to St. Leger church in doneraile, ireland.

the popularity of racing over obstacles continued to flourish in the mid-19th century, leading to the creation of circular courses where the start and finish of the race could be viewed by spectators from the same place. typically, these courses have developed into the racecourses as we know today.

However, France embraced the enthusiasm for cross-country contests, introducing cross-country circuits at more than 50 courses throughout the country. Popularity of the sport stretched across europe to neighbouring Belgium and italy and in 1874 Bohemia, now the czech Republic, introduced one of the most extraordinary cross-country races in the word, the Velká Pardubická.

Punchestown stages numerous cross-country races each year, including the historic La touche cup, one of the premier races at the Festival of Racing in april each year.

cheltenham introduced Britain’s only fixed cross-country course in 1995, and now three races a year are run over it, including the cross-country Handicap at the Festival. the first race over the new course at cheltenham was won by Mcgregor the third, trained by grand national-winning trainer gordon Richards.

UK Hunt Ridesaround 15-18 unofficial races across natural country take place throughout the year in the UK. these tend to revolve around hunting and hunt clubs with one of the oldest and most famous being the Melton

Hunt Ride, which is organised by the Melton Hunt club. Whereas the true cross-country races, such as those involved for the crystal cup are for racehorses from licenced yards and are ridden by either professional jockeys or very experienced amateurs, anyone can have a go at a hunt ride.

the Melton Hunt club’s first cross-country ride was held in February 1956. Since then, the ride and dinner has been run annually ever since with one or two exceptions due to bad weather and foot-and-mouth disease. Held under Jockey club Rules, the cross-country race has to be referred to as a ride, with prizes ‘in kind’ and not a race, in order not to become confused with point-to-points (UK and irish amateur nH races).

the Melton Hunt Ride is still held in February (21st this month) and is run annually, over a different course each year, usually about three and a half miles with about 30 fences. these are generally hedges but they are not flagged and riders find their own route, guided only by a few marker boards, usually fixed to trees, which must be passed to the left or the right. around 30 riders take part, though in the past the ride used to get fields of around 70.

one of the most recent additions to the hunt ride scene is the golden Button. the idea was conceived by david Redvers (manager of tweenhills Stud), and has been four years in existence. it is held on new Year’s eve along the banks of the River Severn near gloucestershire and around 50 riders take part of all abilities, though two jockeys have won the race: in 2009 nH jockey Paul carberry was successful, while Flat jockey eddie ahern won in 2007.

the course is over natural country and is 3m long. it is open to any horse and a number of nH thoroughbred racehorses often take part, alongside more “hunter” types.

History of cross-country racingYou personally seem particularly keen to develop this cross-country racing…? I am keen to see all aspects of jump racing developed and that includes Cross Country racing.

Is a danger instead of pushing for the very best in our sport, it is encouraging second-rate horses and is really a gimmicky type event?One of the most exciting developments for cross-country chases is the emergence of horses such as Macgregor The Third, Spot Thedifference and Garde Champetre who we would otherwise never have heard of. They each become a real hero in their different generations.

Will the issues / expense of travelling horses, being away from home for a number of occasions, running on odd tracks be too much to stop trainers travelling? We do not realistically expect that many horses from different countries will be competing in each race, but it will certainly encourage some trainers.

They will receive a warm and enthusiastic reception when they travel and courses will do everything they can to keep costs to a minimum, some may even offer travel expenses. We have left to each course to decide.

How will this be marketed to the racing / betting public? The website is key to the success of marketing the Crystal Cup, which is one reason why such a challenge could not have been achieved 10 years ago.

The website will be constantly kept up-to-date by each course, it is in four languages and will carry entries, background news and race results and coverage.

How will you judge whether or not the challenge has been successful?Let’s get the first race in Pau on February 7 up and running and we are all confident there will be momentum to carry the challenge through the six nations towards Cheltenham in December.

We will then be able to judge whether to promote a second challenge for 2011.

NH jockey Paul

Carberry wins this

year’s running of

the Golden Button

Challenge on Blaze

Ahead

This month’s NH racing review on begins on page 24

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stallion profile wildcat heir


A record-breaking cat

THe CONCLUSION to the 2009 US freshman sires’ battle produced some impressive debut seasons. The Darley stallion Offlee Wild made the most successful start financially: the

son of Wild again topped the table largely thanks to his daughter She Be Wild, winner of the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile fillies

He was not, though, the only first-season sire to have been represented by a Grade 1 winner because the two sires closest to him in the table – Roman Ruler and Pollard’s Vision – have also achieved this distinction, having been respectively responsible for Champagne Stakes winner Homeboykris and the dual Grade 1-winning Californian filly Blind Luck.

John Berry profiles 2009 US freshman stallion Wildcat Heir, now the holder of the record for the number of northern-hemisphere juvenile winners produced in one season From www.thoroughbredinternet.com

Numerically, though, the achievements of one sire have far outstripped those of all his competitors.

Wildcat Heir, who finished fourth in the freshman sires’ table, set a new record for the number of individual northern hemisphere two-year-old winners from one crop, his first batch of youngsters containing an astonishing 39 individual scorers.

With stallions’ books having hugely expanded in recent years, numerical success records for stallions have all been quite recent, and Wildcat Heir has just surpassed the previous milestone set only last year.

The 2008 season saw two stallions represented by 38 northern hemisphere two-year-old winners each: Oasis Dream in europe and Chapel Royal in america. In fact, Chapel Royal’s batch of 2006 Kentucky-conceived foals actually included



39 individual juvenile winners, because the 38 who flew the flag for him in the US were joined by one who won in the southern-hemisphere after being exported to Peru.

In one sense, therefore, Wildcat Heir has merely equalled Chapel Royal’s record, but as regards individual winners in the northern hemisphere from one crop of juveniles, he is clearly the outright record holder. and what makes this all the more remarkable is he did this with his first crop.

Wildcat Heir was at the head of a decent floridian representation in the US freshman sires’ table with three of the top 12 sires on the list holding their places thanks to the efforts of their florida-conceived offspring, set against the remaining nine of the leading dozen whose runners were conceived in Kentucky.

One of these florida-based sires is now deceased (Proud accolade, who was put down in June because of a neurological condition) while one of the Kentucky stallions (2005 Breeders’ Cup Classic winner Saint Liam, who only survived one season at stud) is also no longer with us.

While standing in florida arguably makes it easier for a good stallion to achieve a

certain level of success on the “big fish in a little pond” theory, this should not be used to denigrate Wildcat Heir’s achievements because he has now proved that he is highly effective at siring horses tough and sound enough, fast enough and precocious enough to thrive as youngsters – an attribute which would make him a valued asset anywhere in the world.

and, of course, it should not be forgotten that Mr. Prospector started his stud career in the Sunshine State before moving to stand alongside Secretariat and Nijinsky at Claiborne farm in Kentucky after the

successes of his first couple of crops.While, obviously, the majority of Wildcat

Heir’s winners have not been at higher levels – and only eight of his 39 winners have so far become multiple winners – he was represented in 2009 by stakes winners such as Karmageddon and Wild Mia, both of whom have won restricted stakes.

furthermore, several of his maiden winners have won in the style of horses with exciting futures, one recent example being his 38th winner Wildcat frankie who won on debut by fifteen and a half lengths, running 54.9 seconds for five and a half

StoRM BiRd b. 1978

teRLingUa ch. 1976

BoLd natiVech. 1965

aBiFaitHch. 1964

FaPPianob. 1977

cHaRedi dkb/br. 1976

diStinctiVe dkb/br. 1966

neW LoVe dkb/br. 1963

StoRM cat br. 1983

VictoRia BeaUtY ch. 1972

PenteLicUSb. 1984

RoYaL tieSdkb/br. 1973

noRtHeRn danceR b. 1961

SoUtH ocean b. 1967

SecRetaRiat ch. 1970

cRiMSon Saint ch. 1969

RaiSe a natiVe ch. 1961

SPRing BeaUtY b. 1944

Seaneen ch. 1954

SHeRRY Jen ch. 1951

MR. PRoSPectoR b. 1970

KiLLaLoe b. 1970

in ReaLitY b. 1964

Magic dkb/br. 1969

neVeR Bend b. 1960

PRecioUS LadY b. 1952

PaRdaL b. 1947

StaVRoULa b. 1956

FoReSt WiLdcat dkb/br. 1991

PenniLeSS HeiReSSb. 1992

wildCAT HeiR: FOUR-GEnERATIOn PEDIGREE

“Wildcat Heir has now proved that he is highly effective at siring horses tough and sound enough, fast enough and precocious enough to thrive as youngsters – an attribute which would make him a valued asset anywhere in the world ”



furlongs in a maiden special weight at Calder and thus posting a Beyer figure of 95.

The Steve Asmussen-trained Miles Heir, his 36th winner, was nearly as impressive when landing a maiden special weight at the Fair Grounds, while his 39th winner Future Heiress won her maiden comfortably on debut at Calder.

For a horse clearly adept at siring successful juveniles, Wildcat Heir was surprisingly not a prolific performer at two himself, a comment which one could have made even more forcefully about Mr. Prospector, who didn’t run as a two-year-old.

Wildcat Heir’s first season in 2002 consisted of just two runs. He won his first start, a maiden special weight at Monmouth Park, while his second outing saw him run a very good second place in the Grade 2 Sanford Stakes at Saratoga behind Whywhywhy, who later went onto win the Grade 1 Futurity Stakes at Belmont

Park, though his form tailed off badly the following year.

The Sanford Stakes race has thrown up some great horses in the past but unfortunately Wildcat Heir took his time to do anything to further the race’s reputation.

He didn’t run in a stakes race as a three-year-old; in fact, he only ran once in 2003, finishing second. As a four-year-old, though, things were better – he finished in the first two in six of his seven starts and won two stakes races, including the Frank J. De Francis Memorial Dash (G1) over 6f at

Statistical summary for the registered progeny of Wildcat Heir courtesy of Equinelineto January 3, 2010 3 crops 249 foals 2 crops of racing age 0 champions 222 foals of racing age 0 graded blacktype winners 100 current 2 year old foals 2 blacktype winners 27 yearlings 1 blacktype placers

Lifetime Current Current Lifetime Year Two-Year-Olds Two-Year-Olds

Foals of Racing Age 222 222 100 222Starters(/foals of RA) 60 (27%) 7 (3%) 0 (0%) 60 (27%)Winners (/foals of RA) 40 (18%) 2 (1%) 0 (0%) 39 (18%)Blacktype Winners (/foals of RA) 2 (1%) 0 (0%) 0 (0%) 2 (1%)Blacktype Placers(/foals of RA) 1 (0%) 0 (0%) 0 (0%) 1 (0%)Starts 199 7 0 192Wins (/starts) 51 (26%) 2 (29%) 0 (0%) 49 (26%)Placings (/starts) 67 (34%) 2 (29%) 0 (0%) 65 (34%)

Earnings $1,205,616 $36,177 $0 $1,169,439Avg Earnings /starter $20,094 $5,168 $0 $19,491Avg Earnings /start $6,058 $5,168 $0 $6,091Median Earnings $16,220Avg Earnings Index 1.16 2.28 0.00 1.55Comparable Index 1.53Avg Distance Raced 5.55f 5.29f 0.00f 5.56fAvg Winning Distance 5.28f 5.00f 0.00f 5.30fAvg Max. Win Distance 5.41f 5.00f 0.00f 5.42fAvg Min. Win Distance 5.21f 5.00f 0.00f 5.23fChief Earner: =Karmageddon $73,130 = Wild Jab $16,800 =Al Baton (JPN) $77,812 =Meiner Max (JPN) $1,185,338

In North America / USA, Australia, Canada, England, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Japan, UAE, and all other available foreign data

Pimlico and the Icecapade Stakes (L) over 6f at Monmouth Park. He also won two 6f allowance races at Belmont and Monmouth.

Kept in training as a five-year-old in 2005, when he only ran twice - but these two starts included an excellent victory in the Teddy Drone Stakes at Monmouth, which he won by over 5l and in which he ran the six furlongs in 1:08.59.

An attractive bay horse, Wildcat Heir had thus done enough to justify a place at stud and he duly retired in 2006 to Journeyman Stud in Ocala, Florida.

In addition to his proven speed and repeated good form, he offered breeders an attractive pedigree.

One of four Grade 1 winners sired by the Storm Cat stallion Forest Wildcat, Wildcat Heir is out of the Mr. Prospector-line mare Penniless Heiress, a half-sister to the

Grade 2 winner On To Royalty, whose progeny include the Preakness Stakes winner and decent stallion Louis Quatorze and the Grade 1-winning filly Royal Indy.

With such credentials, it was no surprise initially that Wildcat Heir attracted plenty of patronage on his retirement to stud.

It is to the credit of Journeyman Stud, which has a 14-sire roster including such promising horses as the Grade 1 winners Consolidator, Circular Quay, Mass Media and Sweet Return, that the temptation to increase his fee on the back of his initial success has been resisted: in 2010 Wildcat Heir will cover for $6,500, the same fee as in 2009.

On this basis, he will surely receive continued patronage from owners of good mares, and it seems a safe bet that he will be a successful sire in the years to come.

WILDCAT HEIR got his first graded stakes winner on January 9 when his undefeated three-year-old filly Richiegirlgonewild went three-for-three with an impressive front-running score in the $100,000 Old Hat Stakes (G3) at Gulfstream Park.

“We bought her at the sales ($100,000 OBS March two-year-old),” said trainer Larry Rivelli. “She had worked fast for the sale and later on even out-worked older horses in my barn before she ever started.

“We were looking ahead to the OBS races (restricted and run at the Ocala Training Center in March), but now that she’s won a graded stakes, that may change. I think she’ll go seven-eighths and we’ll definitely look at the Grade 2 Forward Gal Stakes at Gulfstream,” added Rivelli.

Starting the New Year on a roll

WINDSOR KNOTChesnut 2002 by PIVOTAL ex TRIPLE TIE by THE MINSTREL

Enquiries to John McEnery, Rossenarra Stud, Kells, Co. Kilkenny.Tel: +353 (0)56 772 8319 or mobile: +353 (0)86 212 3779, email: [email protected], www.rossenarrastud.com

Windsor Knot, who covered 54 mares in his first season, has anattractive pedigree to breeders, by a superior sire in Pivotal outof a mare by The Minstrel, from the family of such good runnersas Faliraki and Typhoon. He showed consistent and verysmart form on the track with four wins from 11 appearances,including the Solario Stakes at two and the Darley Stakes at five,both Group 3 events. He stayed at least a mile and a quarter,winning over that trip at Newmarket, and his progeny shouldshow similar ability.

Thoroughbred Owner & Breeder, Jan. ‘09

WINDSOR KNOTChesnut 2002 by PIVOTAL ex TRIPLE TIE by THE MINSTREL

Enquiries to John McEnery, Rossenarra Stud, Kells, Co. Kilkenny.Tel: +353 (0)56 772 8319 or mobile: +353 (0)86 212 3779, email: [email protected], www.rossenarrastud.com

Windsor Knot, who covered 54 mares in his first season, has anattractive pedigree to breeders, by a superior sire in Pivotal outof a mare by The Minstrel, from the family of such good runnersas Faliraki and Typhoon. He showed consistent and verysmart form on the track with four wins from 11 appearances,including the Solario Stakes at two and the Darley Stakes at five,both Group 3 events. He stayed at least a mile and a quarter,winning over that trip at Newmarket, and his progeny shouldshow similar ability.

Thoroughbred Owner & Breeder, Jan. ‘09

following the evolution of the thoroughbred

Based on Thoroughbredinternet accumulated data of over 32,500 worldwide ßat and jump Stakes results, SIRE CROSS is the free tool enabling you to check which Sire lines have proved themselves as the best matings for your Broodmare Sire line.

Providing the best Sires, Grand Sires and Great Grand Sires for a given Broodmare Sire, SIRE CROSS details the number of Stakes winners and of Stakes wins as well as the Stakes horses for each successful cross featured.

.COM

Introducing

market appraisal magic millions


Not one million dollar lot

IF IT WAS a boxing match it would be called an honourable draw as the latest renewal of the Magic Millions Yearling Sale on the Gold Coast resulted in figures very close to those recorded in

2009. But, in reality, that has to be called a

win for the auction house against the wider two-year economic declines that have been suffered around the world.

However, with trade at the top-end depressed many a breeder and stallion owner were left contemplating their respective navels.

The Magic Millions is conducted on the Gold Coast and while it is approaching 30-years of existence, it is still seen as a relatively new kid on the block. The Easter Yearling Sale conducted by William Inglis and Son in Sydney remains the benchmark for Australian bloodstock, but the Magic Millions has established itself as a more than healthy rival.

And while there was a distinct lack of the white shoes and gold chain brigade this

Year Cat Offered Sold % sold Aggregate Average Median2010 690 631 515 82 66,640,500 126,399 95,0002009 690 628 503 80 66,211,000 131,632 100,0002008 900 832 686 82 107,922,500 157,321 100,0002007 730 681 595 87 108,403,500 182,191 100,000

MAgiC MilliONS YeArliNg SAle: COMpArAtive figureSfigureS (A$)

Despite a feeling that the Magic Millions Sale “got away with it” last month, not one lot fetched six figures with the top price of A$925,000 some way adrift of the A$2 million top lot of recent years, writes Darryl Sherer

MAgiC MilliONS 2010tOp lOtS (A$)

lot Horse pedigree vendor purchaser price656 b,c. Redoute’s Choice-They Say (Thirty Six Red) Strawberry Hill Stud Bill Vlahos & Mark Pilkington 925,000265 b,f. Encosta de Lago-Ha Ha (Danehill) Glastonbury Farm Mount Hallowell Stud 700,000645 b,c. Fastnet Rock-Sun Song (Desert Sun) Coolmore Stud Laird Racing Stable 700,000540 b,c. Encosta de Lago-River Song (Fusaichi Pegasus) Coolmore Stud Gai Waterhouse 620,000333 b,f. Redoute’s Choice-La Baraka (Euclase) Kitchwin Hills Gerald Ryan 590,000641 b,c. Encosta de Lago-Succeeding (Flying Spur) Baramul Stud Laird Racing Stable 550,000315 ch,c. Dehere-Joleur (Bite The Bullet) Willow Park Stud Hong Kong Jockey Club 540,000387 b,c. Encosta de Lago-Mary Marvel (Fusaichi Pegasus) Strawberry Hill Stud Hong Kong Jockey Club 530,000306 b,f. Stravinsky-Irongail (Canny Lad) Widden Stud Adrian Nicoll 520,000473 br,f. Redoute’s Choice-Piper Star (Kaapstad) Reavill Farm Belmont Bloodstock Agency 520,000

This filly by Encosta de

Lago was bought by trainer Gai

Waterhouse for A$700,000.

She is out of the former Waterhouse-

trained Group 1

winner Ha Ha photo: Magic Millions



Offered Sold Aggregate AverageRedoute’s Choice 22 17 5,835,000 343,235Secret Savings 1 1 315,000 315,000Encosta de Lago 28 21 6,330,000 301,428Fastnet Rock 40 40 8,020,000 200,500Stravinsky 8 7 1,352,500 193,214Fusaichi Pegasus 5 3 565,000 188,333Mossman 2 2 360,000 180,000Charge Forward 15 14 2,445,000 174,642More Than Ready 30 24 3,845,000 160,208Lonhro 14 14 2,126,000 151,857Strada 3 2 300,000 150,000General Nediym 24 21 3,035,000 144,523Commands 16 11 1,550,000 140,909Anabaa 12 7 920,000 131,428Falvelon 1 1 130,000 130,000Snitzel 12 12 1,512,500 126,041Flying Spur 30 27 3,295,000 122,037Starcraft 15 12 1,440,000 120,000Strategic 1 1 120,000 120,000Jet Spur 8 6 695,000 115,833O’Reilly 5 4 460,000 115,000Undoubtedly 1 1 110,000 110,000Artie Schiller 2 2 217,500 108,750Holy Roman Emperor 11 8 852,500 106,562Hussonet 26 21 2,220,000 105,714Ustinov 1 1 105,000 105,000Danzero 7 6 620,000 103,333Testa Rossa 23 21 2,130,000 101,428Ferocity 2 2 200,000 100,000Galileo 1 1 100,000 100,000Snippetson 2 2 200,000 100,000Pins 7 7 680,000 97,142Dehere 20 17 1,650,000 97,058Dansili 5 2 192,500 96,250Tale of the Cat 8 8 760,500 95,062California Dane 2 2 180,000 90,000Darci Brahma 1 1 90,000 90,000Rock of Gibraltar 19 13 1,142,500 87,884Oratorio 2 2 175,000 87,500Red Dazzler 7 4 350,000 87,500Stratum 31 27 2,320,000 85,925Dane Shadow 10 9 770,000 85,555Beautiful Crown 2 2 170,000 85,000Nadeem 11 10 806,500 80,650Choisir 11 7 545,000 77,857Exceed and Excel 17 12 930,000 77,500Posse 2 2 155,000 77,500Bradbury’s Luck 4 2 150,000 75,000Al Maher 5 5 380,000 76,000Bel Esprit 3 3 220,000 73,333Show a Heart 16 11 800,000 72,727Alert 2 2 140,000 70,000Elvstroem 5 3 210,000 70,000Zeditave 9 7 477,500 68,214Elusive Quality 12 9 592,500 65,833God’s Own 4 4 262,500 65,625All Bar One 2 1 65,000 65,000Magic Albert 11 11 687,500 62,500Excites 2 2 110,000 55,000Snowland 2 2 110,000 55,000

Sire results Magic Millions (A$)

continued over

leADiNg MAgiC MilliONS purCHASerS (A$)

Aggregate Nos

Laird Racing Stable 2,860,000 10Gai Waterhouse 2,772,500 13Hong Kong Jockey Club 2,680,000 8Peter Moody Racing 2,445,000 17Ingham Racing 1,880,000 12Mark Pilkington Bloodstock 1,765,000 11Star Thoroughbreds 1,575,000 11Anthony Cummings 1,550,000 10Mark Kavanagh 1,520,000 9

year, those in attendance were the serious industry players, many of whom said beforehand that, if the sale could match last year’s figures, then it could be considered a success. Fortunately, for many, they were right.

When the last lot had been knocked down at the end of the first four select sessions, the gross of A$66.6 million was marginally better than last year’s A$66.2 from only 10 extra lots sold. The average of A$129,399 was only down 1.7 per cent, while the clearance rate was a healthy 82 per cent, just up on 2009.

A sign of the times can be best illustrated by the fact that there was no seven-figure transaction this year. Last year the sale topper was an Encosta de Lago colt, which sold for A$2 million, and there were several more individual seven-figure transactions.

Strawberry provides top lotAs ever, the top lot came from Strawberry Hill Stud, which is owned by Magic Millions part-owner John Singleton. By Redoute’s Choice, the handsome half-brother to the Australian champion two-year-old of 2003 Hasna (Snippets), winner of the Group 1 Champagne Stakes and AJC Sires’ Produce Stakes, was eventually knocked down to agent Mark Pilkington, flanked by his principals, trainer David Hayes and Bill Vlahos of BC3 Thoroughbreds.

Trainer Gai Waterhouse clearly coveted the colt and she pushed Pilkington all the way to $925,000 before crying enough.

The colt will be prepared by the BC3 team before he heads to Hayes’s yard. BC3 purchased several lots last year through Joe Brocklebank before selling their unraced two-year-olds in a breeze-up last year.

“I think most people on the grounds thought he was the best colt,” said Pilkingon. “He has all the necessary athletic qualities and clearly the best pedigree in the book.”



Vlahos reported that he was thrilled to be forming a link with the Lindsay Park training operation. “I wanted to become involved in a top juvenile prospect and have who I think is the country’s best two-year-old trainer prepare him,” he said.

Waterhouse has been a staunch supporter of this sale and she walked away this year with 13 yearlings for a total spend of $2.7 million. Her most expensive buy was a $700,000 daughter of Encosta de Lago out of the Golden Slipper Stakes winner Ha Ha, whom she trained for Rob Ferguson, a part-owner of Magic Millions and the consignor of this filly through Duncan Grimley’s Glastonbury Farm.

Waterhouse, bidding on behalf of the West Australian breeding operation Mount Hallowell Stud, outlasted the team from Ingham Racing to secure the filly. “She reminds me very much of Ha Ha,” commented Waterhouse. “She has got a

Offered Sold Ave 07 fee Av x FEE Gross Highest Lowest 09 feeHoly Roman Emperor 11 8 106,563 44,000 2.42 852,500 180,000 25,000 35,750California Dane 4 4 80,000 11,000 7.27 320,000 150,000 30,000 13,750Strada 10 8 70,625 13,200 5.35 565,000 180,000 25,000 9,900Nadeem 16 13 69,154 33,000 2.09 899,000 180,000 15,000 27,500Red Dazzler 15 11 56,182 16,500 3.40 618,000 180,000 6,000 13,200All Bar One 6 5 55,500 6,600 8.40 277,500 85,000 40,000 7,700Hotel Grand 5 4 37,625 16,500 2.28 150,500 51,000 27,000 13,200Gonski 3 3 36,000 7,700 4.67 108,000 60,000 16,000 6,600Excites 7 5 35,800 13,750 2.60 179,000 75,000 35,000 8,800Bel Danoro 3 3 14,333 5,500 2.60 43,000 22,000 10,000 4,400

Covering Session 1, horses with 3 or more sold

first-season sires by average

Offered Sold Ave 07 fee Av x FEE Gross Highest Lowest 09 feeAll Bar One 6 5 55,500 6,600 8.40 277,500 85,000 40,000 7,700California Dane 4 4 80,000 11,000 7.27 320,000 150,000 30,000 13,750Strada 10 8 70,625 13,200 5.35 565,000 180,000 25,000 9,900Gonski 3 3 36,000 7,700 4.67 108,000 60,000 16,000 6,600Red Dazzler 15 11 56,182 16,500 3.40 618,000 180,000 6,000 13,200Excites 7 5 35,800 13,750 2.60 179,000 75,000 35,000 8,800Bel Danoro 3 3 14,333 5,500 2.60 43,000 22,000 10,000 4,400Holy Roman Emperor 11 8 106,563 44,000 2.42 852,500 180,000 25,000 35,750Hotel Grand 5 4 37,625 16,500 2.28 150,500 51,000 27,000 13,200Nadeem 16 13 69,154 33,000 2.09 899,000 180,000 15,000 27,500

Covering Session 1, horses with 3 or more sold

first-season sires by profitability

Adrian Nicholl paid

A$520,000 for this colt,

lot 306 by Stravinsky

from Widden Studphoto: Magic Millions



Offered Sold Aggregate Average

Ad Valorem 1 1 50,000 50,000Not a Single Doubt 6 5 245,000 49,000Written Tycoon 1 1 45,000 45,000Churchill Downs 2 1 42,500 42,500Get Square 1 1 42,500 42,500Fast ‘n’ Famous 2 2 80,000 40,000Royal Academy 2 2 77,500 38,750Hotel Grand 3 2 72,500 36,250Pendragon 1 1 35,000 35,000Reset 2 1 35,000 35,000Dynaformer 1 1 25,000 25,000Danehill Dancer 1 0 0 0Distorted Humor 1 0 0 0Don Eduardo 0 0 0 0Kitten’s Joy 0 0 0 0Lucky Owners 1 0 0 0Outback Prince 1 0 0 0

Sire results Magic Millions (A$) continued

huge hindquarter, a beautiful hindquarter, but has development to go.”

Mount Hallowell Stud’s Craig Thompson is the owner and managing director of the ship agency and broking company Seacorp, and he said later that he regarded her as his “filly of the sale.”

“I came here specifically to buy this filly, just have a look at her pedigree. Hopefully, she can win a few races as well – with her residual value outstanding, she is an exciting prospect” he said.

Waterhouse also signed for a $620,000 colt by Encosta de Lago she described as “sexy”. The colt out of River Song was knocked down for $620,000 and Waterhouse revealed later that a syndicate of owners, who raced her Golden Slipper winner Sebring will be involved in the ownership of this colt.

“He’s one of the most attractive horses in the sale,” gushed Waterhouse. “I thought he was just lovely. I actually wrote in my catalogue - ‘sexy’ !

“The main group (for the horse), the Henderson boys, had said to me – identify a few colts at the sale that we should be investing in.”

Waterhouse summed up the mood of the sale in general when she said: “He looks great value as there’s no doubt a few years ago he would have made a lot more. It’s a great time to be buying horses – especially as the prize-money keeps going up.”

The general consensus was that while the sale traded below the figures of last year, overall it held up well.

South African trainer Charles Laird was the leading spender at the sale, with all of his purchases being for his long-term client Charles Jooste.

Laird did reveal that he still harbours plans to train in Melbourne, but that will depend on how many boxes he can secure, which has been a problem. “If we can change that then who knows,” he added.

Patinack sells for the first timeThe Premier Section of the sale was also highlighted by the first public offering of Patinack Farm. Having previously made waves as a buyer, Patinack went to the sale determined to prove it is a serious vendor too, according to stud manager Ben Lawrence.

“We’re delighted with the response we have had,” said Lawrence. “We came here to sell and have been viewed as serious vendors

so we’re very happy. Buyers have treated us the same as any other vendor, which is great.We are very happy with the support Patinack has received from the market.”

HKJC busyThe Hong Kong Jockey Club signed for eight yearlings for a total spend of $2.6 million.

“We were fortunate this year to be able to select and purchase eight colts from the top tier of the lots offered for sale,” said Mark Player, head of International Races, Sale and Development.

“These colts have the physical presence to match or exceed their pedigrees and they are exciting prospects for the future. The horses purchased continue to reflect the Club’s objective of upgrading the quality of the horses that we import into Hong Kong. The colts will remain in Australia for preparation for the Hong Kong International Sale next season.”

Lot 333, a filly by Redoute’s

Choice, was bought by

Gerald Ryan for A$590,000

photo: Magic Millions


The usual resultIt was felt though that the good horses were in demand and made some money, though perhaps not as much as in the past years.

“I think it has been a sale where the good horses have made good money. I’m happy with my purchases,” said Damon Gabbedy of Belmont Bloodstock, whose most expensive purchase was the $520,000 colt by Redoute’s Choice out of Piper Star.

James Haron from De Burgh Equine was equally positive. “We identified a number of nice horses here and are very happy to purchase the ones we have,” he said. “We were particularly happy with the Dane Shadow. The stallion is doing a fantastic job and is a promising young sire and in my opinion the filly we bought (lot 356) was one of the nicest in the sale.”

ConclusionAfter the Classic Yearling Sale in Sydney, the southern hemisphere sales season moves across to New Zealand for the three New Zealand Bloodstock Karaka catalogues.

While it is true that, as a whole, the

Australian economy has not been affected as badly by the global recession, the thoroughbred market has clearly been marked and those who paid high services fees will have struggled to realise much in the way of profit from their yearlings

Further, the market is ettling on locally-

bred horses that trainers can identify with. While the preference for precocious stock remains, the money for good-looking horses with a page is strong. For those breeders selling yearlings from six-figure service fees however, this year’s sale season looks like being a roller-coaster ride.

Gerry Harvey and JoHn SinGleton have dismissed a media report suggesting the Magic Millions yearling sales and race day could be moved to victoria.

the pair were responding to a report in the Herald-Sun, which alleged the victorian government was set to contribute financially to a a$10 million event to be held at Flemington.

Harvey and Singleton had publicly lobbied in January for the Queensland government to support the plan to boost prize-money for next year’s Magic Millions 2yo Classic.

they told The Age that the Magic Millions organisation would prefer to be based in Queensland and were expecting to meet with representatives of the Bligh government to reach agreement for the event to remain on the Gold Coast.

“We have been here [the Gold Coast] for such a long time. the reality is we want to stay here because the concept flourishes up here,” Harvey said.

“Queensland can’t afford to lose this under any circumstances as it generates $52 million in revenue. there are enough smart people in government to get together and work something out.”Magic Millions is hoping to establish the 2yo Classic as the richest race in the world, but it needs the Queensland Government to match the sales company’s prize-money contribution.

Harvey and Singleton deny reports that they are moving

...choose a range with proven results

When winning counts...

D&H|TB.IT.FP.AD180110.indd 1 18/1/10 12:17:11

equine nutrition


treat her as an individual New research has revised thinking as to the best way to feed an in-foal broodmare and one with a foal at foot, writes Clarissa Brown-Douglas

MARES REPRESEnT the mainstay of any commercial or private

breeding enterprise. In addition to their all-

important genetic contribution, mares provide a protective and nourishing environment in

which to raise their foals, both before and after birth. Without a doubt, a mare’s nutritional status is a critical component in foal health from the moment of conception and through to weaning.

The publication of the national Research Council’s latest revision of Nutrient Requirements of Horses

offers several new thoughts on broodmare nutrition in the two most important phases of production, gestation and lactation.

GestationIndustry professionals have always divided a mare’s gestation into two distinct nutritional periods: (1)

from when a mare has been pronounced in-foal to about eight months (the first and second trimesters), and (2) nine months to 11 months or birth (the late gestation).

In previous editions of Nutrient Requirements of Horses, dietary requirements for mares in the first and second trimesters were similar to any

It is now recommended that the provision of certain vital nutrients for a broodmare are increased early in her pregnancy

equine nutrition


mature horse at maintenance. Moreover, because it is a well-known fact that foetal growth is most rapid during the last trimester, an increase in certain nutrients such as energy and protein was recommended during the last three months of pregnancy.

Recent research has indicated, however, that the provision of certain vital nutrients should be increased long before the nine-month mark. As previously, it is recommended that mares be nourished the same as any horse at maintenance for the first four months of gestation, but it is now felt that every subsequent month represents a separate period, leading to eight distinct periods.

The research that evoked these changes takes into account not only maintenance of the mare’s body weight and foetal

growth, but also the nutritional expenditures involved in the creation and maintenance of less obvious gestational tissues such as the placenta and mammary glands. Collectively, these are called non-foetal tissues.

With no changes made to nutritional requirements in early gestation (0-four months) or late gestation (9-11 months), it is suggested that nutritional changes should occur primarily for mares during mid-gestation, the period between the fifth and eighth months of pregnancy.

Which nutrients are affected? To support the development andmaintenance of non-foetal tissues, NutrientRequirements of Horses recommends thatprotein and energy requirements shouldbe raised by five to eight percent abovemaintenance during mid-

gestation for an average (500kg) mare (see Table 1).

Unlike protein and energy, the requirement for additional minerals seems to appear later in the gestation, at approximately seven months. This can be attributed to the fact that non-foetal tissues require mostly protein and energy for accretion and subsequent maintenance and very few minerals.

LactationNutritional requirements for lactation have historically been based on the combination of two specific values: the requirements necessary to keep the mare in optimal body condition and the nutrients required for high-quality milk production (volume and nutritional composition).

Traditionally, nutrient requirements were thought to be

much greater in early lactation, one to three months after foaling, than in later lactation, four to six months after foaling. So great are the energy demands during early lactation that most equine nutritionists believe that few horses require more energy, not even the majority of high-performance horses.

Researchers have increased the energy, protein and mineral requirements for lactating mares during both early and late lactation. The increase in energy was partially due to a shift in the maintenance requirement of lactating mares.

Before this revision, the maintenance requirement for a lactating mare was assumed to be similar to other mature horses. This has now changed. Researchers now believe that mares actually require more energy for maintenance of body

A good way to feed a broodmare with a foal at foot is to use a “two-step” system

equine nutrition


DM DE CP Lys Ca P Cu Zn (kg/d) MJ/day (g/d) (g/d) (g/d) (g/d) (mg/d) (mg/d)Early gestation 8.5 69.8 630 27.1 20 14 100 400Gestation: 8 months 9 77.3 760 32.7 28 20 125 400Late gestation: 11 months 10 89.4 893 38.4 36 26.3 125 500Early lactation 12 132.6 1535 84.8 59 38.3 125 500Lactation 11 120.2 1398 75.7 41 26.2 125 500

recommended daily requirements for a 500kg thoroughbred broodmare in good body condition

condition than was previously thought.

It is felt that the increased movement associated with protecting and tending to a foal as well as the increased energy needed by the gastrointestinal tract to digest the larger meals required to support lactation,

needed the extra energy requirements.

Feeding the mare during gestation and lactationA mare’s feed programme should be adjusted to accommodate the differences in requirements through gestation and lactation.

The Little Bullsare Coming!


Coolagown Stud, Coolagown, Fermoy, Co. Cork, Ireland

T: + 353 25 36642, F: + 353 25 36901, E: [email protected] www.coolagown.ie

Call David Stack on +353 86 231 4066.

First foals by multiple Group 2 winner PAPAL BULL.

Colt ex Catspraddle, a two time winner by High Yield, from thefamily of Holy Roman Emperor, Flying Spur and Encosta de Lago.

Colt ex Fernlawn Hope, a winning Danehill Dancer half sister toGr.3 winner from the family of Insatiable, Galeota and Seazun.

Filly ex Humble Fifteen, a black type placed winner from thefamily of Balanchine, Stage Call, Romanov and Saoirse Abu whoselast three yearlings sold for an average of €210,000.

David Stack of Coolagown Stud reports that all foals are ‘verystrong and correct with good bone’.

Little Bulls Int TB:Layout 1 19/01/2010 09:54 Page 1

contactAilesbury CourtHigh StreetMarlborough SN8 1AATelephone: 01672 514781Fax: 01672 515049

www.withyking.co.uk

[email protected]

Withy King also has offices at:Bath - 01225 425731Swindon - 01793 536526Trowbridge - 01225 777464

solicitors specialising in racing and bloodstock

An increasingly popular method of feeding is based around a two-step feeding concept that utilizes both a balancer and a complete feed. A balancer is a low-intake, concentrated source of essential protein, vitamins and minerals, which is designed for all classes of horse when additional calories are not required. Balancers can be fed alone to mature horses which are maintained on all-forage diets or they can be added to mixes when extra nutritional fortification is required. Balancers can also be fed with unfortified grains to provide the correct balance of nutrients.

Barren mares and those out at grass, which tend towards the heavier side, benefit from being fed a balancer, which when fed at the recommended daily intake (usually approximately 1kg per day depending on the specific product) can provide a base nutrient package during all phases of the breeding cycle.

When additional energy is needed, a complete feed can be used. Complete feeds contain not only the protein, vitamins and minerals required for the animal, but also the energy. The complete feed is fed at a higher intake than a balancer – approx 4-5kg vs. 1kg per day. The balancer and complete feed must be coupled with a good-quality forage source, such as hay, haylage and/or pasture fed at 1-1.5 per cent of body weight per day.

For mares who do not require such a high intake of complete feed, but cannot maintain their

weight on a balancer alone, many farms opt to utilize a two-part feeding system using a balancer with a complete feed at various intakes and adjusting energy levels as required during the breeding season. Feed intakes will vary, depending on stage of gestation and lactation, and the changing needs of the individual, but the two-step system is designed to maintain a constant base nutrient intake, while adjusting energy.

Summary The modifications and increased nutrient requirements for broodmares during gestation and lactation that appear in the new national Research Council recommendations do not necessarily change the foundation of a broodmare’s feeding programme, especially when utilising the two-step system and ensuring the mare is maintained on the “base” nutrient package throughout all phases of reproduction.

As it is predominantly energy requirements for gestation and lactation that have been revised by the council, it is now, more than ever, imperative to feed each mare as an individual. It is vital to regularly assess body condition score throughout all phases of reproduction and modify caloric intake as necessary.

For more information on feeding the broodmare or any other aspect of equine nutrition, contact Kentucky Equine Research at www.ker.com. Saracen Horse Feeds is the official UK Kentucky Equine Research Team Member. www.saracenhorsefeeds.co.uk.



Coolagown Stud, Coolagown, Fermoy, Co. Cork, Ireland

T: + 353 25 36642, F: + 353 25 36901, E: [email protected] www.coolagown.ie

Call David Stack on +353 86 231 4066.

First foals by multiple Group 2 winner PAPAL BULL.

Colt ex Catspraddle, a two time winner by High Yield, from thefamily of Holy Roman Emperor, Flying Spur and Encosta de Lago.

Colt ex Fernlawn Hope, a winning Danehill Dancer half sister toGr.3 winner from the family of Insatiable, Galeota and Seazun.

Filly ex Humble Fifteen, a black type placed winner from thefamily of Balanchine, Stage Call, Romanov and Saoirse Abu whoselast three yearlings sold for an average of €210,000.

David Stack of Coolagown Stud reports that all foals are ‘verystrong and correct with good bone’.

Little Bulls Int TB:Layout 1 19/01/2010 09:54 Page 1

World-class nutrition, world-class results.

Proud of our connectionsWe are so proud of the results that our clients have achieved this year, both on the racecourse and through the sales ring. The feeds that these horses were bred, trained and prepared on are the result of our own connections that bring us the most up-to-date research and technology, and we remain committed to providing nutritional solutions, along with the science to support them.

SCINTILLO. Bred by Woodcote Stud, won and placed in three Group races, including

Grand Prix de Chantilly GR. 2

DAR RE MI. Bred and owned by Watership Down Stud, the winner of two

Group 1’s, fifth in Prix de L’Arc de Triomphe Gr. 1 and third in Breeders’ Cup

Turf Gr. 1

AQLAAM. Bred by Granham Farm, won and placed in four Group races. Now stands at Shadwell’s Nunnery Stud

MAC LOVE. Bred by Kingwood Bloodstock, the winner of three Group 3’s

at Epsom, Salisbury and Goodwood

HEARTS OF FIRE. Bred by Bearstone Stud, winner of the Brocklesby in March, a Listed race in August, a Gr. 3 in September

& a Gr. 1 in October

VOY POR USTEDES. Trained by Alan King, he made up an Aintree treble of Gr.

1 & Gr. 3 races alongside Walkon and Oh Crick

HIGHCLERE STUD. Lady Carolyn & John Warren’s Highclere Stud was the leading vendor at Tattersalls Book 1 for the third

consecutive year

FINJAAN. Trained by Marcus Tregoning, winning the Betfair Cup Gr. 2 at

Goodwood marked a turning point for the yard

HABAAYIB. Trained by Ed Dunlop, she was one half of a Royal Ascot double

alongside Fareer

LOT 545. Bred by Oakgrove Stud, the Oasis Dream – Maganda colt topped

Tattersalls Book 1 selling for 700,000 gns to Coolmore

POET. Bred by Meon Valley Stud, the winner of a Listed race, the Irish

Cambridgeshire & a Gr. 3 inside 3 weeks

OASIS DANCER. Trained by Ralph Beckett and bred by Whitsbury Manor

Stud, the winner of Tattersalls Timeform Million and £541,700

Some Highlights of 2009...

For further information, telephone Polly Bonnor on 01488 73456 or visit www.saracenhorsefeeds.com.Saracen Thoroughbred Office: The Old Bank, Market Place, Lambourn, Berkshire RG17 8XU.

2 9.1. n C nn i n d .indd 1 19/01/2010 1 :49

legal notes


Getting the deal doneWHAT A fantastic year

it was for Flat racing. It was a privilege to witness the feats of Sea The Stars, culminating with a breathtaking

victory in the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe. After the Arc meeting, there was

much talk about whether Sea The Stars would run in the Breeders’ Cup. Once that was discounted, the focus turned to his prospective career at stud and the possibility of syndication. In the end the Tsui family retained ownership, according to many commentators a wise move, which has meant that the stallion could enjoy the patronage of all breeders.

But if the horse had been syndicated what issues would need to be considered, apart from the tax implications of any deal?

There will be at least two aspects to most transactions. The first is the sale and purchase of the colt. The second is the syndication. Both elements need to be considered carefully and the terms then recorded in writing.

When acquiring a horse, enquiries should be made about the veterinary history, and a pre-purchase examination should ordinarily be undertaken. In some cases further enquiries may also need to be made regarding the legal title to the horse, with appropriate warranties being extracted concerning title and, if possible, fitness of purpose.

Sometimes the deal will be done before the end of the horse’s racing career, in which case a lease back to the new and former owners may be required to deal with the intervening period. As part of the deal the seller may also require

the reservation of a certain number of nominations, perhaps for a limited period.

A separate Syndication agreement is also advisable dealing with the rights and obligations of the new owners as between themselves.

If the number of people involved is large then it can be helpful to appoint a syndicate manager, while on occasions the syndicate itself may delegate powers to a smaller committee.

However, such complexity is not generally warranted if only a handful of people are involved with the stallion. Clauses should deal with a host of issues, including the ability of shareholders to convene shareholder meetings and the voting rights on key points, such as the stud which will stand the stallion and the terms upon which he will stand.

It is also usual to include clauses limiting the ability of syndicate members

to sell their share, requiring that they have to afford their fellow shareholders a right of first refusal.

Many operational matters may be delegated to the stud that stands the stallion and the Keep agreement between syndicate and stud then becomes another very important document.

This article is no more than a guide on some issues that might need to be considered. There is no such thing as a standard deal, and the terms can vary enormously.

So if you are going to become involved in such a deal, take advice at early stage. Ensure that the documentation accurately reflects the agreed deal and, in doing so, reduce the chances of disputes arising.

It is always best to get a set of documents properly drafted at the outset to ensure that the dream of owning a successful stallion does not turn into a nightmare.

Andrew Chalk explains the ins and outs regarding stallion syndicationMotivator

was one of the last recent stallions to be

syndicated

Andrew Chalk is a specialist racing and bloodstock lawyer for Withy King Solicitors, and can be contacted on 0800 0277 339 or by email at [email protected] article is provided for the interest of readers and for information purposes only. It does not constitute professional advice and must not be acted upon without taking appropriate legal advice in every case.

market appraisal


up, down or just around?With opinion divided amongst the professional property people as to just what they think the economy and house prices are going to do in 2010, Christy Kilgour canvasses a few viewpoints from a little closer to home...the uK property market in 2009Generally property prices had a game of two halves in 2009. The property market staged a remarkable mid-year comeback, which saw annual price changes swing back from a 17.6 per cent fall in February to a 5.9 per cent rise in December, on the nationwide index.

Overall, most other indices show the year closing at similar levels to that at which they began. The recent price rally leaves general residential property less than 15 per cent off its peak 2007 levels. However, the headlines hide a much more complicated situation.

Low interest rates and “cash creation” via quantitative easing have stimulated demand. There was a continued shortage of property being brought forward for sale and the demand continued to build throughout the year. Competition pushed up prices for the best properties to unexpected levels. In central London, for instance, prices were again approaching the 2007 peak values.

Agents may be reporting rapidly rising prices, but the market is being heavily skewed by cash-rich buyers purchasing more expensive homes and a large number of £10+ million rural estates readily changed hands. The market was also not consistent across the UK: London and the south-east lead the way with the traditionally sought after counties such as Gloucestershire and Oxfordshire following closely behind.

So which way from here in 2010? The big question is whether property prices will continue to rise or will fall again after this current rally ends creating a “double dip”.

Commentators views vary but the most optimistic predict a level market (+/- 2%) in

2010, while the remainder feels that a fall for the year is more likely.

There is a deal of uncertainty but agents seem to point to the following as reasons either for or against movement in the property market values.

price positives• Confident buyers have returned to the market, they have pushed property prices up and the demand and confidence continues.• An acute shortage of homes for sale is bolstering the market leading to competitive bidding. Both new build and houses for sale on the market are at historic low levels.• Quantitative easing has pumped an extra £200bn into the economy: it should increase lending, keep Libor low and add inflationary pressure, which may eventually help drive up house prices.

price Negatives• Bank of England mortgage approvals for homebuyers are running at around 55,000, 60 per cent of the mid-term average of 93,000 and tough new mortgage proposals make obtaining funds more difficult.• Affordability: the Council of Mortgage Lenders figures show the average first-time buyer needs a 25 per cent deposit, which is well above the long-term average of 8 per cent (1979 to 2009).• The jobless total is at 2.5m and rising, the highest level in 14 years.• 50% top rate tax, the extra tax on bank bonus payments and general tightening of the economy is now inevitable and must impact upon the housing market. • Rising interest rates in the medium term.

market appraisal


AS THE economists and estate agents are uncertain exactly what will transpire for property in 2010, we asked some of our own for their views.

Do you think the market value for training yards and studs will rise or fall in 2010 and do you think there will be more or less market activity in the coming year?I think the market value will largely remain the same, although good quality equine properties in top locations will always demand a premium price and attract high-end buyers regardless of the general market. Anthony Stroud, bloodstock agent

I cannot see the market value rising in 2010 and given the economic outlook I think it may well fall. There are still people who want to invest in property as they see it as a buyers’ market. I am sure this will ensure a steady level of activity in the market throughout the year. Marcus Tregoning, Racehorse Trainer

I see the market remaining at much the same level, although I do think that there will be at least as much, if not more, market activity. Some vendors will need to sell and buyers will chase any value they can find in the market.Simon Marsh – Stud/Racing Manager, Consignor and Bloodstock Investment Fund Manager

If you had a large windfall in February from a roll-over win on the Scoop 6 , where would you invest it?No surprise – I’d probably invest it in bloodstock, I would aim to put together a high-quality portfolio of top broodmares and fillies in training. AS

I would invest in quality training facilities for the future. MT

Pay off the school fees in advance! SM

What is your idea of a good ante-post bet for this year’s Derby?I can’t see past St. nicholas Abbey after his

imperious performance in the Racing Post Trophy against Europe’s best two-year-olds. He looks different class! AS

Whilst not exactly original I have to stick with the form horse, St. nicholas Abbey. He was mighty impressive at Doncaster, looks like he will see out the trip and currently sets the benchmark for the others to aim at. MT

Bred at Kiltanan Stud by my client, Bjorn Nielsen, and then consigned through Watership Down Stud, when sold at Arquana to Demi O Byrne for €400,000, I have to stay loyal to Fencing Master, particularly after his promising display in the Dewhurst. SM

If you don’t like their Derby selections you could always bet on the rise or fall of UK property prices.

Most of the major companies now offer novelty bets or spread betting facilities based on average UK house price values.

If you have a view for 2010 there is now more than one way to take a punt on the property market!

So what do you think?

Simon Marsh

Anthony Stroud

IF YOU HIT a winning formula then why change it? It’s a maxim that works for relationships, businesses, sports and in racing. Robert Waley-Cohen, a successful businessman who developed and then sold Alliance Medical,

a hugely successful diagnostic imaging company, surely translated this theory to his business dealings, and he has certainly taken the idea to heart in order to plan his racing strategy.

Although Waley-Cohen owns the successful stud, Aston Upthorpe in Warwickshire, and races offspring from his mares in both France and England, he is happy to buy his racing stock too. And he has hit upon a source that has produced him sheer gold.

The mare Libertina is not his own, but she has produced Liberthine, a six-time winner who picked up the Mildmay of Flete and the Topham Trophy on the way to winning over £200,000 in prize-money, the less successful Bica but a gelding who still managed to win two races, as well as the latest star, the five-year-old Long Run. He is already the best of Libertina’s brood and has the potential to be the best of his generation. All three are owned by Waley-Cohen.

A 1985 filly, Libertina was a moderately talented performer. She won one race and was placed six times, but is a half-sister to a capable gelding called Full of Ambition. He won two races over jumps, including the Grade 2 Prix Amadou Hurdle at Auteuil before finishing second at the highest level in Grande Course de Haies d’Auteuil Hurdle (G1) and Prix Alain du Breil 4yo Summer Hurdle (G1).

Libertina is also a half-sister to Fioca, an eight-time winner over jumps, including at Listed level. However, it is really as a grand-dam that Fioca has really found fame. Her daughter J’Y Reste has produced two Listed French jumping winners, as well as J’Y Vole, the 2008 winner of the Grade 1 Dr PJ Moriarty Chase. Still only a seven-year-old, the Willie Mullins-trained runner, a son of Mansonnien, finished third in December’s John Durkan Memorial Chase at Punchestown behind Joncol before running

a little below par in the Lexus Chase when seventh.

Libertina’s sire Balsamo had a career highlight when second in Group 2 before a fifth in a Group 1 in 1977 at Longchamp, but he generally performed without distinction. His uninspiring racing career repeated itself in his record at stud: from 231 foals, although he produced a decent number of winners, only one was successful at Listed level.

He was though a son of Kashmir II, who was a brilliant racehorse and who features prominently in the annuals of British and French horseracing. Trained in France by Charles Batholomew, he was a son of Tudor Melody and won the Guineas in 1966 when ridden by Jimmy Lindley. He went onto finish second in the Prix Foret and thePrix La Rochette. He was brother to Slady Castle, second top-rated colt in Ireland in 1971 and his name will live on for a while longer in jumping pedigrees as he is the sire of Dumka. She was winner of the Prix des Pouliches and dam of the deceased Aga Khan’s stallion

Doyoun, sire of the decent jumping stallions Daylami and Kalanisi, and of the mare Zarkana, grand-dam of the 2008 wonder filly Zarkava.

But back to Libertina. She has had 12 foals so far. Initally, owned by Haras de Mirande, she was transferred to Madame Gabeur’s ownership after producing her third foal, Aubisquini.

He was the mare’s first offspring to show some ability. A gelding by Don Pasquini, he ran solely on the Flat achieving nine wins and 12 places from 33 starts.

Libertina’s sixth foal Liberdal was retained by Gabour and is a brother to Long Run. He won one race from just eight starts.

Liberthine, her seventh foal, was initally trained by Guillame Macaire and retained by Gabour, but was bought by Waley-Cohen after she won a three-year-old hurdle at Auteuil in 2002.

It was a shrewd business move by Madam Gabeur as Waley-Cohen stepped in immediately to buy Bica. Although he began his racing career in France again under Macaire’s tutelage, he only ever ran in Waley-Cohen’s colours and transferred to join Nicky Henderson’s team alongside his half-sister in 2005.

Waley-Cohen sidestepped Libertina’s ninth and tenth foals, a filly by nikos and a colt by Cadoudal, before Long Run came along. The son of Cadoudal’s early performances – he finished second first-time out in a Listed three-year-old hurdle before winning on his second start, also at Listed level - were enough to make the British owner stop in his tracks.

But for all of the theory of sticking to a successful plan, Waley-Cohen apparently dithered for a moment and it was left to his wife Felicity to make the decision to purchase.

The substantial price owner-breeder Madame Gabeur and trainer Macaire were asking for the son of Cadoudal made Waley-Cohen think twice.

But according to rumour Mrs Waley-Cohen stirred her husband to action with the lines: “You want a decent horse. You can afford him. What are you, man or mouse?”


Mare of the month Libertina (Balsamo - Full Of Pep (Hard To Beat))

mare of the month

the database will return next month and will include all relevant races held through January

Long Run

International Thoroughbred

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