Astute Bloodstock has no political agenda and no hidden motives. This page exists to share some of our observations, research and opinions, drawn from 40 years of combined industry experience, international exposure and an analytical approach. We are not here to offend anyone, but simply to point out the obvious 'the elephant in the room', in the hope of challenging the thinking of industry leaders and encouraging positive change. Everything written here is Louis's opinion, supported by facts, careful analysis and a benchmarking perspective. You may find it thought-provoking, and we welcome your point of view.
Our Industry Views
2YO Racing And The Benefit Of Patience!
The Benefit of PatienceThe late Bart Cummings, trainer of 246 Group 1 winners, including 12 Melbourne Cups, famously said:“Patience is the cheapest thing in racing — and the least commonly used.”That wisdom is not outdated. A horse’s conformation, physiology and biomechanics have not fundamentally changed. Given the huge increase in prize money in top races for older horses, patience is a lot more rewarding now than it has ever been. Of the 100 million dollar races in Australia, only 7 are ...
The Illusion of Speed and Rethinking Breeze-Up Sales
Photo: Jean-Claude Rouget with his champion AlmanzorWhy the Leading Buyers Often Bypass the Breeze-Up SalesA few years ago I spent a morning on the gallops in Deauville with the trainer Jean-Claude Rouget. Over 3,000 winners, two Arc de Triomphes, six French Derbies, four French Oaks, around 45 Group Ones across Europe. During our conversation, he made a remark that has stayed with me since:"The problem with the current breeze-up system is that horses are trained to run times. What you see is a ...
Four Derbies In The Land Of Sprinters - Why?
Australia has approximately 75 Group 1 races at the moment (depending on the latest pattern committee decision), and it has been widely discussed in the media this year that this number is way too high.Australia stages four Group 1 Derbies over 2400m to 2500m despite a breeding industry that prioritises speed over stamina. In contrast, Europe’s elite racing nations England, Ireland, and France each run a single Derby, backed by 250 years of staying bloodlines. Australia is running endurance tes ...
