JOE Foley of Ballyhane Stud and racehorse owner Steve Parkin have ended their racing and bloodstock business relationship after more than 20 years working together.

In a statement issued yesterday, Foley confirmed there has been a “breakdown” in the arrangement. This came a few days after news broke that two Parkin-owned stallions – Asymmetric and Space Traveller – had moved from Ballyhane Stud in Co Carlow to Starfield Stud in Mullingar, Co Westmeath.

Foley said: “We both thought this was the best way forward and I wish the team at Starfield all the best with the two horses. As Sands Of Mali is a partnership horse, he will remain at Ballyhane where his book has been increasing significantly due to highly encouraging reports of his first crop of two-year-olds.

“It has been a great adventure helping Steve and his family build his racing and breeding operation into what it has become today and I’m proud of the top horses that I’ve sourced for them over the years.”

Foley bought practically all of Parkin’s racehorses at the foal and yearling sales. The vast majority run in the grey silks of Clipper Logistics. More recently Parkin established the Bronte Collection, a vehicle which allows him to share horses in training with his friends.”

Foley added: “I wish them all the best into the future especially on the racetrack this year where the Clipper and Bronte teams have an exciting string of horses preparing for the season ahead.”

From a humble background in Leeds, Parkin founded his own company in 1992, Clipper Logistics, which specialised in moving stock for High Street fashion stores. The company was valued at over €1 billion two years ago when it was sold.

With Foley’s help, Parkin has acquired the 300-acre Branton Court Stud in Harrogate and, last year, established Dullingham Park Stud in Newmarket, home to stallion Shaquille.

Among the best racehorses Parkin has owned are Rosdhu Queen, Beyond Desire, Soldier’s Call, Living In The Past, Space Traveller, Eagles By Day, Dramatised and last year’s Group 1 Moyglare Stud Stakes winner Fallen Angel.