COSTS continue to rise for both breeders and end users, while prize money fails to keep pace, making the sales ring an increasingly challenging environment for both buyers and vendors. Stallion fees are one of the few areas that breeders can cut costs, as the essential bills of feed, veterinary care, staff and general overheads are almost set in stone.

Those ‘shopping’ under the €20,000 bracket often opt for first season sires, who can’t turn cold until they have runners, but without a proven record, you risk the chance of breeding a horse of undesirable looks or lack of talent. Then there are those standing in their second to fourth seasons, often at reduced fees, with the potential of being the next star, or dud.