Interesting Breeding Obs from Keeneland on Satuday

If you go through the stakes fields at Keeneland for Saturday you'll notice an unusual amount of horses who carry the Rasmuessen (sp?) Factor, the practice of inbreeding to outstanding females within 5 generations.

This is still, like most breeding, a theory. But I must admit, its one that has proven its mettle in my mind. I found it interesting that there are so many in this weekend.

Do you think more breeders are utilizing it more? Or is it more of a lack of genetic diversity that is leaving little choice but to cross the same lines over and over again?

Furthermore, it seems some of the cheaper (in price and quality of the breeding stock in the pedigree) stakes participants are carrying the RF and have obviously proven to be successful at a relatively top level. Might be a good thing to keep in mind for a small breeder.

I have no doubt that the RF adds class to a breeding and its proven that such things as the x-factor are female related in genetic passing. The old saying goes, the class of the horse comes from the female family... thoughts?

And on a sidenote, I know Coolmore has been desperately trying to groom a Danehill son to stand at stud in America. Their first real try was with the ill-fated Landseer. He was put down before being retired.

It seems their new Danehill hope is in Dylan Thomas. And although he's an obviously classy individual, as a breeder, I would think their best Danehill son from a stallion perspective is Aussie Rules. They already have him in the US and it should be interesting to see if he takes priority with a commanding victory and a lackluster dirt showing for Dylan Thomas. One can only hope...