Horse Racing Forum - USA Thoroughbred Races

I seem to have lately seen some stallion ads that call attention to the fact that their stallion does not have Mr. Prospector in his pedigree, or at least not recently.

This may be a stupid question, but why do they feel that is desirable?

Outcrossing. Even Coolmore underlined the fact on American Pharoah’s pedigree notes that his Mr Prospector is 5 generations back so he can be bred to mares with Me Prospector up close.

I assumed it was to provide an outcross, but why Mr Prospector, and why at this time in history?

Catalina wrote:I assumed it was to provide an outcross, but why Mr Prospector, and why at this time in history?

I think its because not too long ago you couldn't find a horse that didn't have Mr. Prospector in the first two generations. I can recall years back that being free of Mr. P was a big advertising point for young stallions. Even though he's been dead for years I'd imagine there are still lots of mares out there with him in their first 3 generations.

On general principle then, and not because of any inherited... shortcomings.

This article on the widespread influence of Mr. Prospector both here and abroad helps explain why breeders are trying to find outcrosses for him. His influence is terrific, but it is also pervasive. https://www.paulickreport.com/features/ ... king-gold/

Interesting article, thanks for posting it!