The inaugural tour viewing progeny of first season sires in the Waikato has been chalked up as a success.
The JLT sponsored event, which was organised by the Waikato branch of the New Zealand Thoroughbred Breeders’ Association, visited six farms where around 10 weanlings were paraded at each property to a crowd of 60 New Zealand Thoroughbred Breeders’ Association members.
“For our first weanling walk tour we were very happy with the turn out we got,” organiser Derek Mayne said.
“We had several from Auckland and a couple from the Hawkes’ Bay. Because it was our first one we were trying to keep it small and I understand the conflict with the South Island Sale may have prevented some people from the South Island coming up.”
The tour began at Brighthill Farm where breeders viewed the first crop by four-time Group One winner Preferment. The group then visited Rich Hill Stud, Waikato Stud, Westbury Stud, Mapperley Stud and Windsor Park Stud. Weanlings by Vadamos, Tivaci, Tarzino, Telperion, Puccini, Turn Me Loose, Rageese and Vanbrugh were paraded and well-received by spectators.
“We appreciate everything the studs did,” Mayne said. “They had to get staff back in on a Sunday and there were other things going on.
“The presentation was excellent. All the weanlings we saw were extremely well behaved and it just shows all the work the studs put into their weanlings.”
Breeders were given an insight into what the progeny of stallions that are relatively new to the sire ranks were developing in to. Mayne said the feedback was encouraging and plans to develop the concept into an annual event are underway.
“There was some really good feedback for next year so in that regard it was a success.
“It was great to have the Lucy from the sponsor there and we really appreciate all the support we get from JLT.
“We are so pleased with all the support we get within the industry. New Zealand Bloodstock though Gavelhouse support our stallion day and we are lucky to get such good sponsors.”
Over the next few months many breeders will be narrowing down their shortlist for potential matings and Mayne is confident the weanling walk will have benefited those in attendance.
“It helps for people to be able to see what the progeny can look like,” Mayne said. “The breeders can see what they are likely to get. It doesn’t matter if you are breeding at the top end or the bottom, I do believe there are some very good stallion options out there.” -NZTBA
