Photo: supplied
White Robe Lodge stallions Alflaila and Ancient Spirit will stand at 7,000+GST this breeding season, reinforcing the iconic Southern nursery’s commitment to supporting thoroughbred breeders at every level.
Alflaila heads into his second season at White Robe Lodge after a strong debut year, where the multiple Group Two winner proved popular with breeders, covering 110 mares.
A striking individual, he represents the first influence of the outstanding Dark Angel sire-line to stand in New Zealand, offering breeders access to one of Europe’s most in-demand bloodlines.
“We were overwhelmed by the first-year support of Alflaila. It’s the biggest book we've had for a stallion in 15 years,” White Robe Lodge’s Jack Stewart said.
“Breeders from all around the country have sent mares and lot of those mares have been booked in again this year.
“We encourage anyone who's in the area to come out and have a look at him as he’s a stunning type and if the foals look anything like he does, then breeders won’t be disappointed.”
Stewart said the Dark Angel sire-line is flying in Australia at present through his son Harry Angel, and the addition of Dark Angel’s triple Group One winning son Charyn ($35,000+GST) to the Cambridge Stud roster is a coup for New Zealand.
“Obviously Alflaila stands at a different price point, and at White Robe Lodge we are very cognisant of the cost of breeding and raising a horse,” he said.
“It’s important we play our part to keep breeders engaged and give them every opportunity to succeed, so in addition to realistic service fees, we also offer $10 a day grazing fees for anyone who supports our stallions with a mare.”
While the first foals of Alflaila are keenly anticipated this spring, associate sire Ancient Spirit has made a promising start to his stud career, with his eldest progeny three-year-olds.
Stakes winner Bobby McGee headlines his early runners, while Golden Spirit has also gained black-type, and the young stallion was represented by impressive debut winner Arwen.
The well-bred son of Invincible Spirit was also represented by emerging staying filly Fly Zenno, who has shown her quality in strong company, including a solid fourth in the Gr.2 David & Karyn Ellis Fillies Classic (2100m) at Te Rapa behind subsequent dual Group One winner Ohope Wins.
“We always thought they'd be horses that would get better with time, and they’re certainly showing a bit now,” Stewart said.
“The word from the trainers is positive that they will continue to progress into strong staying types.
“We've got plenty of them here ourselves, both on the farm and in the racing stable (Brian & Shane Anderton). He’s on the right trajectory and there is plenty of interest in them as trade horses to Australia, given their ability to get out over a bit of ground.”
