As I wrote the sire ranking, I realized that it is just a method to organize my thought process. I would prefer to find an Honor Code, but actually any top 30 sire might be acceptable if I find the right mare.
So exactly what am I looking for in a mare?
Ranked from most to least important.
- did she run a Equibase figure of 90 or higher in a race at 1 1/8 miles or more
- did she produce any offspring that were successful routing
- is her sire thought of as a stamina influence
- is her mother (the second dam of the horse for sale) a source of stamina (either as a runner or producer)
- did she sell for a decent price at auction (maybe $100,000 or more)
- was she trained by a trainer known for his route horses
- is the TrueNicks rating B or better
- did she not win as a 2 year old (too discourage pinhookers)
- is the foal born in April, May, or June (too discourage the pinhookers)