Aussie Breeding down 8%

Decline in thoroughbred stud activity
By FRANCES THOMPSON Jan. 27, 2013, 10 p.m.
Breeders say the drop is not unexpected and likely to continue.

NEW figures show a decline in thoroughbred breeding during the 2012 season, with some experts saying the industry is experiencing a necessary correction.

Australian Stud Book says the number of coverings of mares by stallions is down 8 per cent, from 22,510 in 2011 to 20,634 in 2012.
Upper Hunter thoroughbred breeders say the drop is not unexpected and likely to continue.
It reflected a continued constrained economy, more discriminating clients moving away from ‘‘bottom-end’’ mares and the high costs of agistment and veterinary fees, they said.
Arrowfield Group chairman John Messara said the decline probably would cut about 1000 foals from the normal crop of about 15,000.
‘‘That means fewer runners, smaller fields and less wagering,’’ Mr Messara said.
The downward trend would continue, Mr Messara said.
Arrowfield’s Snitzel covered most mares in 2012. (see inset).
Vinery stud bloodstock manager Adam White described the decline as ‘‘a good thing’’.
‘‘Quite a few mares at the bottom of the market are over-bred,’’ Mr White said.
‘‘Some mares didn’t have the pedigree or conformation that would warrant spending money on. It is a slight decline and nothing to panic about.’’
Vinery’s Myboycharlie, an Irish stallion, covered 196 mares.
Yarraman Park stud’s Arthur Mitchell said the costs of agistment and veterinary fees were a major reason for the trend.
Australian Stud Book deputy keeper Jacqueline Stewart said late lodgements may result in a final figure of 21,300 coverings, or a 5per cent decline.
She said that would result in a ‘‘sufficient’’ number of foals for racing.
A total of 622 stallions were booked in 2012.

See your ad hereThe statistics show the top three stallions were at Arrowfield, Coolmore and Widden studs and they covered more than 650 mares.
Upper Hunter studs accounted for the bulk of the busiest 20 stallions.
Sixteen of the top 22 covering stallions were bred in Australia.
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