Photo: Supplied
After taking out the Gr.3 Counties Cup with One Bold Cat, we caught up with breeder Eddie Bourke to learn a little more about his background in the industry.
How did you get into thoroughbred breeding?
My first introduction to thoroughbred racing/breeding was my mother Daisy taking myself and my brothers to the races in Taranaki. While we did this my Dad stayed home to milk the cows and feed to pigs. Armed with a cricket bat, a rugby ball and a huge homemade picnic hamper with all the goodies, we enjoyed many days out creating wonderful childhood memories at the races. From this I developed a love of thoroughbred racing and the excitement that comes with it.
How many mares do you breed from?
10
Tell us about some of the successes you have had?
I personally define success in this sequence. From mare selection, to mating, to a healthy fit foal being born alive this is what I consider a success. Watching the foal grow and develop, breaking it in and commencing training for a career in racing then watching the horse compete no matter the result is a success in itself.
What else do you have in your bloodstock portfolio (youngstock, race horses etc?)
10 broodmares, 4 youngstock, 8 yearlings and 6 foals.
Do you breed to trade or breed to race? How do you decide on what to keep or sell?
Breed to race. I make decisions in consultation with my trainer Robbie Patterson.
Do you seek advice on your breeding decisions?
Yes I do, again from trainers to gain advice on temperament and confirmation on prospective stallions.
Best breeding advice you have received?
Spending hours listening to the Dennis bros, Tony, Ray, Joe and Martin who I consider to be the most successful thoroughbred breeders in New Zealand.
What do you love about the thoroughbred breeding industry?
The people involved from the stable hands, track workers, trainers and jockeys. Everyone working together with the challenge of trying to produce the perfect race horse.
What advice would you give someone entering the industry as breeder?
Seek out successful breeders, listen to their experiences and gain knowledge from them a this is invaluable and will hold you in good stead.
Proudest moment as a breeder?
On a personal note, my daughter Nicola Bourke. On a breeding note, One Bold Cat winning the Counties Cup.
The best part of being a thoroughbred breeder is....
The people, the places, the challenges, the variables the excitement and most of all enjoying a beer with mates.
