Breeding thoroughbreds can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience for many, but there are many factors to consider before embarking on such activities. Cost, time and experience are the three main factors which may affect which route you choose.
Syndicates and clubs are often good options for people wanting to take their first steps in the industry, as they can utilise the experience of others and manage costs.
We recommend anyone interested in getting involved in thoroughbred breeding read or download a copy of the TBA’s Broodmare Ownership Guide within this section.
Getting started is easier than you think:
Step 1 - ADVICE
Seek professional guidance from the TBA’s FREE Broodmare Ownership Guide. Download the digital guide or request a free print copy.
Step 2 - TIMING
Own a filly/mare racehorse already? Retire your mare at the right time – discuss plans and options with your trainer. The optimum time to be considering a second career as a broodmare is September onwards, it will give you plenty of time to make decisions on care, matings plans and preparing your mare for the covering season. However, it's not too late in the new year, discuss with your boarding farm or agent.
Don't own a mare? There are a few more options open to those who don't currently own a mare and want to become involved. You could start enquiries with advisors/agents from September onwards regarding purchasing a broodmare or broodmare prospect (horses-in-training, horses-out-of-training). There is also the option of purchasing a mare already in foal at other times of the year, either through private sale or auction. Stud farms may also offer shares in broodmares currently on their premises. Though always remember to seek independent, professional advice and read the TBA's Broodmare Ownership Guide for further details
Don't own a mare? There are a few more options open to those who don't currently own a mare and want to become involved. You could start enquiries with advisors/agents from September onwards regarding purchasing a broodmare or broodmare prospect (horses-in-training, horses-out-of-training). There is also the option of purchasing a mare already in foal at other times of the year, either through private sale or auction. Stud farms may also offer shares in broodmares currently on their premises. Though always remember to seek independent, professional advice and read the TBA's Broodmare Ownership Guide for further details
Step 3 - BOARDING
Explore options for your mare’s day-to-day care. Will you care for her yourself, or board her on a stud farm? Do you have the time, resources, knowledge and skills to provide adequate care? Will you foal the mare at home or send her to a boarding farm? Or do you board her elsewhere full-time? These are just some of the questions breeders must consider before proceeding.
Read more about day-to-day care in the Broodmare Ownership Guide.
Step 4 - CHOOSE YOUR STALLION
Consider seeking matings advice from professionals. Other considerations for broodmares of both codes includes eligibility of progeny for bonus schemes, such as the Great British Bonus which requires horses to be either by a British-based stallion and registered in Great Britain (100% eligibility), or registered in Great Britain but by overseas stallion (50% eligibility). For National Hunt mares, check her eligibility for the Elite NH Mares' Scheme which may qualify her for either free or heavily discounted stallion nominations.
Step 5 - FOALING & BEYOND
Receive support throughout pregnancy, foaling, and your foal’s early development with TBA membership. Join today.
Find a Boarding Farm
A key decision for breeders is who will look after their broodmare(s) and youngstock. Many breeders choose to start their own stud farm or board their stock at an outside stud, whether that be all year round or during specific times such as foaling, covering and sales preparation. Please contact the TBA office on 01638 661321 or [email protected] for further information on boarding farms.
Find an Agent
Many people choose to use the services of a Bloodstock Agent when purchasing breeding stock. Agent fees vary depending on services required but they can assist with a number of activities including buying, selling, mating plans and nominations agreements.
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