We caught up with Taranaki-based breeder, Gavin O’Dea who bred Marton Cup winner, Soldier Boy.
Gavin is pictured here (second from left) after Cooga Doon’s win in the Listed Wanganui Guineas. Gavin has since added Cooga Doon’s half-sister, Sister Monica, to his broodmare band.
How many mares do you breed from:
I have three of my own and about four that I have shares in. Forty Love who is the dam of Soldier Boy, also produced his full-sister and NZ Oaks placegetter Van Cooga, who is now in my broodmare band. Van Cooga has a foal at foot by Vadamos. Also, I recently bought off Gavelhouse a mare called Bonete. She is a full sister in blood to two Group 1 winners, I sent her to Ribchester and I am looking forward to what she produces.
I bought a half share in a mare called Sister Monica as her half-brother won the Wanganui Guineas for me, and I also have shares in a good mare called Pineau with the Goodins from Bell Block, and she has left two stakes-winning horses.
What else do you have in your bloodstock portfolio (youngstock, racehorses etc)
I have five rising two-year olds, about five foals and a couple of racehorses. Some I own 100% but most, I only have shares in.
Do you make your own mating decisions or seek advice from others – if others who?
I seek advice from a very good pedigree consultant, Earl Feck. We are both part of the Levin breeder’s group.
Do you have a favourite cross?
Yes, but I like to keep it to myself as it does change.
Proven stallion or new season sire?
I like both, it all depends on what Earl, and I decide is the best cross.
Best breeding advice you have received?
I get plenty of good breeding advice from Earl
Who do you admire in the thoroughbred breeding industry?
Can’t single anyone out as there are a heap of good breeders in the industry.
If you could own any broodmare (past or present), who would it be?
Nothing wrong with my own mare, Forty Love as her first two foals are stakes horses. I am also very excited about Bonete.
If you could spend a day learning the tricks of the trade on any farm in the world which would it be?
Although I still work, I am an old fulla and wouldn’t be doing any of that anyway haha
Proudest moment as a breeder?
I have won the Wanganui Guineas a couple of times, one with Soldier Boy and one with Cooga Doon who I bought but now have shares in his half-sister.
Finish this sentence: The best part of being a thoroughbred breeder is…
Winning black type races. I would like to win the Wanganui Guineas again. I use both Fraser Auret and Gavin Sharrock and I think one of them just might have the horse to do it!
