Welcome to the racetrack of love, where the stakes are high, and the potential for a champion foal is just a swipe away! In 2024, horseOlogy is galloping through the fascinating world of equine matchmaking, where finding the perfect partner for a thoroughbred isn’t just about love at first sight but involves a meticulous blend of science, strategy, and a little bit of horse sense. Let’s see what’s happening behind the scenes.

All Dressed Up has Places to Go

All Dressed Up (Super Saver) was purchased by horseOlogy in foal to MGISW Omaha Beach. She foaled a lovely filly last month in New York. When looking to purchase a mare, it is always important to consider the cover and the cover date. The covering stallion is vital to assess the plan with the future foal. The cover date is also important because the later the date, the less time you have to get the mare back in foal. All Dressed Up has been markedly consistent in getting in foal early in the season in each of her first three seasons as a broodmare, which appealed to us at the sale, and she will head back to Kentucky for her date with Arcangelo.  

We have high hopes for the grey’s future at stud and believe All Dressed Up’s physical attributes perfectly complement his. Their pedigrees also match up well, as the foal by Arcangelo out of All Dressed Up will be bred on a version of the same Arrogate/Maria’s Mon cross as Arrogate’s Grade I winner Fun to Dream. 

All Dressed Up and Arcangelo’s example shows just a little bit of what goes on behind the scenes in the matching and mating of champion thoroughbreds.

Selecting a Mare: Pedigree and Conformation

Choosing a mare for breeding is not just about the attraction. The first step is to consider her pedigree. Much like a family tree, a mare’s pedigree gives insights into her genetic potential, the racing prowess of her ancestors, and the traits she might pass to her foal. It’s like a dating profile that goes back generations!

Conformation, or the physical build of the mare, is equally crucial and can be paired with the mare’s racing record. A well-balanced body, correct legs, and a stout racing record are good things to look for when picking up a mare.

What Happens Next: The Sire and Dam

Once a mare has found her Mr. Right, what’s next? For the sire (the father), this is his moment to shine. He brings his own pedigree and physical traits to the table. A successful racehorse himself? Even better! His genes play a significant role in the potential success of the foal.

After the lovebirds have been paired, nature (AKA the Stallion farm and the veterinarian) takes its course. Gestation in horses lasts about 11 months; during this time, the mare receives the utmost care. Think of it as prenatal pampering, equine style! Nutrition, herd health, and regular veterinary check-ups are crucial.

Meanwhile, the sire might be off to other matchmaking adventures, spreading his winning genes far and wide. As for the dam. she’s embarking on a journey of nurturing the next potential racing star. It’s a time of excitement, anticipation, and a bit of hoof-biting nerves as we await the arrival of the new foal.

Matchmaker Matchmaker

In horse racing, matchmaking combines science, intuition, and a deep understanding of equine genetics and health. It’s about creating the next generation of champions, one swipe at a time. So, here’s to finding the perfect match and galloping towards a future filled with racing triumphs!

Are you ready to play Cupid for your thoroughbred? Or perhaps you have a mare just waiting for her perfect match. Share your stories or get in touch to learn more about the art of equine bloodstock (matchmaking sounds more fun!). Remember, in horse breeding, love is always in the air.

Do you want to know more about mareOlogy at our farm?

Meet the Ologists

FollowhorseOlogy online and on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube to learn more about our team, thoroughbreds, and services. Call us at 855-HORSIES (855-467-7437) to set up your visit to our facility.