NZ book for Volstead full and closed

Volstead (Cantab Hall), one of harness racing’s hottest siring prospects has been met with heavy demand since details emerged of his down-under availability a little over a week ago.

With limited supply due to the Swedish Group One winner remaining in Ohio post the North American breeding season, Australasian trotting breeders have acted quickly in securing his services for their mares.

Last seasons champion Australian sire of trotting juveniles by stakes, wins and starters had an equally impressive debut crop in New Zealand spearheaded by the reigning 2YO Filly of the Year and G1 winner, Empire City.

It’s therefore unsurprising that within the space of 10 days, the 40 available services have been snapped with a wonderful book of mares for the spring. Among them are the dams of two Rowe Cup winners, six G1 producers and eight mares by champion sire, Muscle Hill.

“I wont say I was surprised that he secured a full book,” said NZ Booking Agent, Brad Reid.

“He obviously has the runs on the board which is an advantage for any stallion, but he only has himself to thank for that and a lot of credit has to go to Pat Driscoll and the HDT team for taking a punt with him and getting those good early crops on the ground.

“They weren’t big numbers by any stretch of the imagination, but history has shown that the stallions who have risen to the top are able to overcome humble beginnings and let their progeny do the talking. You only have to hark back to that first crop of Christian Cullen and what he did with 46 live foals. The early frozen crops of Bettor’s Delight down under are another example and more recently the likes of Love You and Muscle Hill.

“He has a wee way to go before he’s in that echelon but what Volstead achieved with less than 100 foals in three countries is nothing short of remarkable,” he said. 

A waitlist has since been established and breeders interested in securing a booking are encouraged to get in touch with their details by contacting Brad Reid on 021 683 995 or by email: brad@harnesslink.com 

by Harnesslink Media