RTIP Bloodstock Project

The Project's Origin

Started in 2018, this initiative is giving new insights and opportunities to students interested in the equine side of the industry. The creation of the RTIP Bloodstock Project began with the generous donation of seed money from Dana Parham and will continue to offer a hands-on engagement experience for many years to come.

The origin of the program started when students met with bloodstock agent and RTIP alumnus, Kathy Berkey, learning the strategies used when purchasing broodmares for a commercial operation. Not only did the students learn theory, but they put that information into practice as they scoured the sales catalog for potential broodmares using the parameters set.

After sharing her long list of potential mares and reporting the physicals on those mares, the short list was created. After some of the initial selections went beyond the budget, Kathy was the successful bidder and signed on two mares that became the property of the Race Track Industry Program.

The Current Broodmare Roster

The RTIP now owns four broodmares –Savvy Lady, Hinder, Miss Midnight Brew and Tiz a Classy Lass. Three of the four mares are stabled at the Al-Marah Equine Center, an 88-acre equine facility owned by the University of Arizona. The fourth mare, Hinder, is stabled at Columbiana Farm in Paris, KY.

Stallion Selection

Students participate in every aspect of the decision-making process for the four mares, including stallion selection. This education is invaluable given the students are making real life decisions and will see the foals that result. For the breeding seasons thus far, the following stallions were chosen:

2024 Breeding Season