You Can’t Fix a Mating with a Popular Stallion


Hey!
​
Most breeders want the same thing:
Foals with the class, soundness and scope to compete.

But year after year, the results fall short.

Why?

Because most breeding plans start in the wrong place: with stallion ads, sales averages or a nick rating that looks good on paper.

That approach leads to overcrowded outcomes: average foals in a saturated market.

If you want to breed better racehorses, you need a smarter starting point.

Start with your mare.

She’s not just part of the equation, she defines it.
Her production, her type, her traits. That’s your foundation.

This article shows how experienced breeders are rethinking their process by putting the mare first to make more reliable, well-matched mating choices.

👉 Read the article now​

It’s not about trends. It’s about clarity, precision and better results.

—
Clark

Hi! I'm Clark Shepherd.

I offer my expertise as a bloodstock agent, sales consultant, and pedigree analyst to assist in breeding or purchasing superior thoroughbred racehorses through sound pedigree principles, horsemanship, and consistent implementation of well-designed plans. Check out the resources I offer below and sign up for my newsletter!

Read more from Hi! I'm Clark Shepherd.

Buying a yearling shouldn't feel like a shot in the dark. You’ve done the work. You’ve studied catalogs. But picking the right horse still feels like guessing. It doesn’t have to. I’ve just released my OPTIMAL Mating Sales Selections for the Fasig-Tipton July Sale. These picks are based on full seven-generation pedigree analysis using proven, practical strategies that have helped produce multiple graded stakes winners, including a Kentucky Derby champion. Here’s what you get: • Pedigree-based...

Hi! You’ve heard it before: “Don’t use that stallion. He’s not popular right now.” But what if he’s exactly what your mare needs? Too many breeders pass on a strong mating because they’re worried the market won’t like it. They chase what's selling today and lose out on what could win tomorrow. In my latest post, I walk through why stallion selection should never start with trends. It should start with pedigree logic, physical balance and what actually makes a better racehorse. You’ll learn:...

Hey! Breeding and buying Thoroughbreds shouldn’t feel like a shot in the dark. You study pedigrees. You check the nick. You get advice from all directions and still feel unsure. That’s exactly why I wrote this: A clear, practical guide to using pedigree the right way. Whether you're breeding, buying or pinhooking. Inside, you’ll learn: How to use inbreeding and outcrossing with purpose Why female families are your hidden advantage What to actually look for in a 7-generation review And how to...