CLARIFICATIONS
Noticed some quotations in a Harness Edge article extracted
from a rambling conversation in what was on or off the record
was never quite determined nor was a transcript provided.
Consequently a degree of clarification is called for in
order to set the record straight and to elaborate on any
remarks that might have appeared flippant!
To commence, can never recall using the expression “For
Pete’s Sake” nor would I term Garland Lobell
a breed changer. He has had an impact certainly a positive
one at that though it remains to be seen what the ultimate
influence will prove to be. Moreover, he has “Speedy
Crown” blood being by ABC Freight from Gamin Lobell,
she of course by Speedy Crown. Fortunately he is a male
line Volomite through his grandsire Noble Victory, he by
Volomite’s son Victory Song.
Garland’s great sons-the famed Hall brothers Conway,
Angus, and Andover are from Amour Angus she by Magna Force
(Florida Pro-Rosemary) from Kenwood Scamper (Texas-Lindy’s
Speedy Lady) have no Speedy Crown on the dam’s side
which allows for outcrossing back.
It should be noted that Conway’s Triple Crown son
Windsong’s Legacy is from a mare by Speedy Crown’s
Hambletonian son Prakas.
Bill Perretti did indeed make a courageous move importing
Revenue who will indeed provide new genetics to the existing
scene.
Whether or not it’ll be better remains to be seen.
It should be noted that our thoroughbred cousins have revitalized
that breed via the importation of European stallions.
For the record, Revenue serviced 165 mares in 2005 not
190. This year his second season will be somewhat less than
that although if the trend towards exceptional looking foals
continues we’d expect some last minute book additions.
It was Windsong’s Legacy who serviced over 190 mares
last year and will probably level off at about 150 this
year.
Yes there has been a Noble Gesture effect. What is surprising
is the route it took as he himself was a. very well regarded
charter member of the sensational crop that also featured
Speedy Crown and Savoir. Noble Gesture was a first crop
Noble Victory from Important, she a full sister to world
champion Impish. .
Noble Gesture was rather infertile though he did sire a
great racehorse in Mystic Park and a one who became an exceptional
sire in Balanced Image. Mystic Park was not very fertile
though with son Mack Lobell and daughter Feeling Great,
left the impression that with normal opportunity his contribution
could have been considerable. Feeling Great of course is
the dam of the mercurial Self Possessed,
Do not know if the erudite Jim Harrison addressed the issue
of genetic diversity 40 years ago in Care And Training though
he may well have referred to the breed taking care of itself.
This seems to be happening!
Whereas we went from the years of Speedy Crown-Super Bowl
domination to the brief but all encompassing shadow of Valley
Victory, we currently have any number of stallions capable
of producing that elusive Hambletonian candidate. Among
them, Muscles Yankee, Yankee Glide, Self Possessed, Conway
Hall, Angus Hall, S J’s Photo, Donerail, Credit Winner,
Striking Sahbra, Malabar Man S J’s Caviar in whatever
order one prefers to list them. Upcoming could well be Andover
Hall, Windsong’s Legacy, Cantab Hall, Tom Ridge, Classic
Photo, Revenue, and others I might be overlooking.
Thus what seemed a narrow genetic field not too long ago
has broadened considerably.
And yes it appears logical that those lamenting any perceived
lack of genetic diversity should indeed avail themselves
of the opportunity provided by Revenue.
Regarding that Rocknroll scenario-Tain’t been yelled
at because the 175 number became common knowledge. Have
been admonished by some who just couldn’t get in and
we probably received 100+ requests that could not be accommodated.
And yes, some of the more vocal applicants were probably
supporters of the USTAs book limitation rulings. In those
cases, hypocrisy is an appropriate term.
Enjoying the new INSIDER notations on STANDARDBRED CANADA’s
website! Good stuff.
Bob Marks