Thoroughbred Breeding in California
Returning to Its Former Glory
For the first time in many years, we can all see the tremendous in-rush of significant stallions into California—stallions that are getting some of the best runners in the country. Why? The California owners' and breeders' incentive programs are huge. Anyone who races horses in the state wants to own a Cal-bred.
Not only are the bonuses enormous, but legislation forces each California track to host at least one Cal-bred race every day. The purse for an open maiden special weight race is about $45,000 here—and with the Cal-bred bonus, it's almost $60,000. That's more than a lot of stakes races elsewhere around the country.
Yes, it is finally happening. California has many of the leading owners, trainers, and jockeys. Now, year by year, we see an improvement in the quality of sires and mares. And the value is really there. Stallions like Bertrando, General Meeting, Illinois Storm, In Excess, Roar, Swiss Yodeler and Valid Wager are complete bargains considering the runners they're getting. On top of everything, it's only going to improve, as these stallions have better and better mares bred to them. For true breeding value, there is no question that California is on its way back.
What Has Made Shields Thoroughbreds Successful
We've been very selective. We don't have a huge farm, and so we hold on to quality. We have tough standards for pedigree, conformation, and produce record -- and we raise those standards year after year.
Please Call
Let's talk. We love to make new friends in the industry. Give us a call and come visit!
Best regards,
Becky and Craig Shields
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805-693-0036
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