RA posting PBs in the breeding barn

When it comes to setting personal bests Royal Aspirations has gone absolutely next level this breeding season.

Previously the most mares he'd served in a season was 36. In the 2022-23 breeding season the total is 106.

"It's massive for me," says Phoebe Standardbred's Grant Beckett.

In his previous years at stud the former age group star has served books of 21,28,36,24 and 32.

So why the turnaround at a time when breeding numbers nationwide have plateaued at best?

The key reason is timing. Last year at the same time as Beckett announced a range of "early bird" and other offers for his star stallion his progeny went through a golden patch on the race track, at one stage having five wins in 10 days.

With the success rate of the likes of Royal Del, Sunny Louis and Royal Pride’s big win on Cup Day, the idea of getting a bargain proved irresistible to some.

"It was about 50 - 50 those who booked in early in June and those who paid later."

The demand has meant Beckett has had to adjust the way his stud near Christchurch operates.

"I can only take 30 mares on farm anyway ... they have gone all over the country, from the bottom to the top."

And it's not just about quantity, with Beckett saying he's also getting better quality mares this time around.

"The quality has certainly improved, there's no doubt."

"We haven't got the top end yet, although a couple of the bigger commercial breeders have sent a mare this year - but there have been mares like Bright Glow, Majestic Action and Monkey Selfie - good honest types of mares."

Royal Aspirations won 18 from 55 between 2012-16 and still holds two New Zealand records. He is still New Zealand's fastest 2YO trotter with the 1:56.5 he set at the Harness Jewels in Cambridge in 2012, and he also holds the national colts and gelding record for 2200m set at Cambridge in 2013 (2:43.0).

As a stallion Royal Aspirations' stock have produced 30 wins from nine different individuals, including recent winners T K Megastar and Miss Gracie. Phoebe Stud also stands Habibi Inta, Locharburn and Imperial Count.

"I haven't heard a bad word about one (of Royal Aspirations' stock), says Beckett, "the type of foal he's leaving, they have a good presence about them and are great walkers."

His latest progeny are expected from mid September onwards.

A decision on his 2023/24 service fee is yet to be made.