King of Diamonds too close? Opinions on this testmating

[zelensky]

I’m considering using Carrick Diamond Lad on my ISH mare for her last foal, and a possible future mount for my daughter’s boyfriend. We would be looking to breed a talented all-rounder for him, but temperament and rideability would be key. The mare has bred three very useful foals to date, all with very trainable and easy temperaments, but KoD does have a reputation in some quarters for having been a grumpy SOB. Would you be worried about two doses of KoD? Lots else to like - especially a doubling up of Abernant. Would really like to know what people think:

http://www.sporthorse-data.com/dbtestmating.php?&sireid=10477035&damid=10484926

[vineyridge]

Having KOD that far back wouldn’t bother me at all. There are lots of other horses closer who would contribute much more to temperament. If both the sire and dam are “cool”, I wouldn’t worry myself. The double isn’t sex balanced, so not quite as “powerful.”

[columbus]

I would not worry either the KOD sons are out of different and unrelated mares. That is a good way to bring in a horse multiple times with less risk. PatO

[columbus]

Also I would not consider KOD a horse known for difficult temperaments and actually have seen the opposite. I would make sure that the mare used has a correct hind leg as KOD is rather straight. I would not worry about this if I crossed two KOD bred horses with good hind legs. PatO

[zelensky]

Thank you so much, really helpful feedback. And great guidance on the hind leg … I’m hoping to get to Ireland in the spring to see Carrick Diamond Lad in the flesh, as it’s so difficult to get a really accurate idea from a photo.

[columbus]

forgot to add

There have been at least two approved RID stallions in the US who were double KODs. One is the deceased OLearys Irish Diamond who competed as a jumper and a upper level dressage horse and KEC Double Diamond who still lives and competed as jumper and dressage horses as well. I have a ID daughter of KEC Double Diamond and she can move with the warmbloods. PatO

[zelensky]

Great addition Pat, thank you - have just had a look at the photos of KEC Double Diamond, and he’s a very handsome chap. Love that he has Ben Purple in his pedigree as well. And interesting to see that he came from the Kennedys … Carrick Diamond Lad is looking like a more and more attractive choice for my mare the more I learn. It will be interesting to check out his temperament, but certainly she is an absolute sweetheart (except when the hormones kick in lol), which is a good start.