Stallion parade to showcase Llowalong Farms roster

One of Victoria’s most progressive standardbred studs will unveil its super-impressive lineup of 2023 stallions at what is becoming a must-do event on the harness racing breeders’ calendar on Sunday fortnight, September 10.

Llowalong Farms at Kyabram is emerging as a lead player in Australian breeding, and with a record 10 sires – and some big names – on their 2023 stallion roster studmaster Dr Kath McIntosh and her team have a busy season ahead.

The stud welcomed shuttle sires American Ideal, King of the North and Lather Up this week after their release from quarantine, and the trio arrived in stunning order.

“They look magnificent – we probably take it for granted what we do with these horses shuttling them backwards and forwards,” Dr McIntosh said.

“It’s a big ask of them, the quarantine, the flight and to arrive somewhere new, but they’ve got off the truck as casual as you like and settled in as if they’ve been here all their life.  They are amazing animals, and they are looking magnificent this year.”

Dr McIntosh said after the challenges of flooding right across the district last year, she was looking forward to welcoming people back.

“We love showing off our terrific roster of stallions, each one of them has their own personality that

everyone will see during the parade,” she said.

Victoria’s number one harness racing caller Dan Mielicki will MC the parade while, afficionados Mark Hughes (Woodlands Stud) and Grant Campbell (Llowalong Farms) will provide extra comment.

It will be a unique opportunity to see Llowalong’s newest stallion, trotting star King Of The North – the champion son of the siring sensation Walner, his first son available to breeders in Australasia.

Llowalong is offering three trotting sires this season, and seven pacing sires.  King of the North’s compatriots Pastor Stephen, Mel Mara, American Ideal and Lather Up, will also be on parade, as well as local champions Yankee Rockstar, Poster Boy, Soho Tribeca and New Zealander, Raging Bull.

Some of their up-and-coming progeny will also be on display, with a showcase of Llowalong’s premier lots for the 2024 Yearling Sales, while guests can also view some of Australia’s best broodmares in Aston Villa and Carlas Pixel.

Wine, beer, tea, coffee and delicious catering will be provided along with giveaways and a chance to learn about the $400,000 Llowalong Stallion Bonus.

The event is free, but bookings are essential and must be made before Friday 1 September – RSVP to admin@nrequine.com.au or 03 5852 2845.

A preview of all stallions can be found on the nrequine.com.au website.

by Terry Gange, for Harnesslink