Info on bloodlines translating to 2nd careers

[longlanefarm]

Posting this in “Racing” as it seems this crowd would have the most knowledge on TB bloodlines. Should I cross post somewhere else?

I know, I know, horses are individuals but I’ve seen many comments about a certain sire producing “this” or “that” type of horse or a certain mare foals horses that end up excelling in dressage/jumpers/eventing etc. in their second careers.

Can anyone give me some info on what/who to look for in a pedigree for a horse that will have a good brain, quiet temperament, and more likely to like/excel in dressage in his/her second career?

[NancyM]

Birdsall’s books. They are old now, but the only published info that I have ever seen, and still worth reading. Other than that, hands on “regional” experience with TB families in your area (if you can find that). Good luck.

[beowulf]

the above is a good suggestion but… it really depends on the individual.

that being said if we are going based off of “consistency”, i will say i am consistently finding that the private account, valid appeals, pleasant colony, ap indy (and sons - congrats, flatter, etc), big brown, pass on steady, honest temperaments – and most are decent movers.

but then there’s one that just goes and really breaks that impression by being anything but.

[longlanefarm]

Just FYI, this is more of a curiosity post, I do know they’re all individuals and look at the horse in front of me. Bloodlines just intrigue me. Thanks for the info @NancyM and @beowulf !

So just for curiosity’s sake: What are your general thoughts on progeny of Afleet Alex and Unbridled Song?

[LaurieB]

I’ve owned an Afleet Alex broodmare for four years. She is the sweetest, kindest mare I could imagine, and I’ve been told she was the same way when she was on the track. I’ve also watched several AA foals grow up through their yearling year. Without exception they have been the thinkers and clowns of the their groups. If a foal in the field has picked up a big leafy branch and is chasing the mares around with it, you can bet it’s a foal by Afleet Alex. If I was going to have an OTTB as a riding horse I would love to have one by AA, because I really enjoy the temperaments of the ones I’ve known.