Putting it all Together

    There is no way to guarantee that any given mating will be prosperous.  No secrets, no magic formulas.  We are, after all, dealing with Mother Nature.   There are many ways, however, we can improve our chances. The first step toward producing a quality racehorse is the objective evaluation of the broodmare.  Her strong and weak points, both physically and in pedigree, must all be taken into account.  A mare who has produced foals in the past give us a bit more information than does a maiden.  Some questions to answer:

• Is there a recognized nick for her broodmare sireline?

• Is there opportunity for positive inbreeding?

• Did she run?  If so, what was her best distance?

• Does she have conformational flaws?

• How have her foals been physically?  Are they well-balanced?

• How have her foals done on the track?  What are their shortcomings?

    Stallion registers and the internet are both good tools for researching pedigrees, and are good starting points.  When the successful patterns and nicks become apparent, the stallion choices can be narrowed.  Then it is time to go shopping.

    When visiting farms and looking at stallions, ask questions and take notes. It is sometimes difficult to recall details about a particular stallion after looking at several.  Bear in mind the physical makeup of the broodmare in question upon visual inspection of a stallion.  If necessary, carry pictures along.  Assess the overall conformation and balance of the stallion.  Look beyond "pretty" to see how the horse is actually put together.  Quiz the stallion manager:

• What mares are best suited to this stallion?  

• What traits does he pass along to his foals?

• What are his stats with broodmares like mine?

• What was his best winning distance?

• How strong is his female family?

• Why would you recommend this stallion for my mare?

    The answers to these and other questions can help to narrow the stallion choices even further.  For example, if the stallion ran best at a mile or more, and the broodmare ran best at only five furlongs, then perhaps he can stretch her out a bit.  If he stamps foals with his massive shoulder, and the broodmare is light in the hip, this may not be the best horse for the job.

    Don't give up, and don't settle for less.

    Successfully breeding a mare begins with mating her to the correct stallion.  But that is only the beginning.  The rest lies in ensuring the foal is born alive and healthy, and that it is raised in a manner which will encourage his natural abilities.  This includes a regimented deworming and vaccination schedule, proper nutrition, routine care, and room to run.  

    Many breeders attempt to keep their foals out of harm's way by confining them to small pens or stalls.  But running is essential to the proper development of a racehorse.  Bone is strengthened through running. Muscles are developed through running.  And running with other horses promotes competitiveness. 

    This very important aspect of producing a quality racehorse requires no time, no effort, no expense, and is very satisfying to observe:  Let the foals run.