MEETING THE SHEIK
Q
What is the plan for Godolphin’s Australian operations? Will they be buying more yearlings in the future or is breeding their own stock still the priority?
A
We will continue operating in yearling sales at a modest level. We don’t want to be seen to be shooting the lights out out trying to pick a horse for show. We want to broaden our pedigree profile and add value to our herd. We have 150 two-year-olds in the stable now and another 100 yearlings coming through. It’s not a case of needing a certain supply, it’s just the icing on the cake.
Q
What is it like dealing with His Highness Sheik Mohammed, the Prime Minister of the UAE?
A
I found him to be a very humble, very engaged man who is passion- ate about the industry. He is very interested in his staff and how people enjoy bloodstock. He is a leader of his country and a revered and dominant player in the bloodstock industry. I was a bit starstruck when I first met him in Dubai but everything was quite low key. It’s not the chandeliers and things people imagine. It’s substantial but tasteful there.