WE all need plenty of luck when it comes to horses, no matter what sector of the industry we’re in, and I’ve always thought that breeders need even more.

The most beautiful mare, mated to a handsome stallion can produce an ugly duckling, the most talented parents can produce a talentless racehorse. I suppose when it goes the other way, that’s the whole fun of it – the chances of defying the odds and breeding a superstar from humble means.