As we approach the end of the calendar, we turn our attention to the incoming sire class of 2021. We asked several judges who their favorite incoming sire is for next year and if there are any other stallions, new or otherwise, that have caught their eye as under-the-radar picks.
JOE MILLER, Kern Thoroughbreds
McKinzie (Street Sense), $30,000, Gainesway
My favorite new sire is a tough decision. There are so many good choices in 2021 and I really do not want to jinx anyone, but I would have to say McKinzie is the horse that really stands out to me.
He was a very talented horse around one turn, and was able to carry that speed two turns. He relaxed well in his races, and was unlucky not to win a few more big races. His dam was precocious and very fast as well, and looks wise. He is a picture. On his day, he was pretty special. I think $30,000 is a fair price on him.
Constitution (Tapit), $85,000, WinStar Farm
Best value does not necessarily mean inexpensive, and I think Constitution is very good value at $85,000. The commercial market should catch up with race results.
Also, an honorable mention to Ocean Park (Thorn Park) at Waikato Stud in New Zealand. For a $20,000 N.Z. stud fee (about $14,000 U.S.), you can breed to a young stallion that has already had several Grade 1 winners and seems to have a new stakes horse every weekend in Australasia. He seems to do it on both sides of the Tasman.
Do you have a favorite incoming sire pick for 2021 or a stallion that you think might be under-the-radar next year? Email the TDN's Katie Ritz at [email protected] to give your response.
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