Challenge is in sourcing experienced and competent staff

Big studs such as Coolmore and Darley may make it look easy, but how hard is it to stand stallions? Is it a viable way of making money for smaller operators any more? We’ve spoken to one stallion master off the record about the pitfalls.

The obvious place to start seems to be with the stallions who will bring people to your business, but before you can begin to worry about acquiring your stallion prospects you’re going to need staff to care for the residents of the stud.

“It’s difficult sourcing experienced thoroughbred business staff,” explains our source. “Dealing with stallions and young stock – foals and yearlings – they are a lot more unpredictable than your average horse. People don’t realise how different the skills are in understanding how a commercial thoroughbred stud would work as opposed to working in the sport-horse or leisure-horse industry.”