Since inception in 2012, Challenge Racehorse Syndications' has only ever syndicated female stock and there's no plan to change that business model.
Why?
The goal is to improve a filly or mare's CV by attaining black type status. It's not a new strategy by any means, but a proven way to drastically improve a female horse's worth.
Put it this way, a retired filly or mare who has won a Group or Listed Race is worth a truckload more than a retired gelding who has won a Group or Listed Race!
Sure, a top-end colt who can win Group One races is worth a fortune for stud duties. But the percentage of those who make the grade is tiny.
It was pleasing this week to see Fascination Street, a mare I selected at Karaka for the very first Challenge Syndicate, have a significant result at the Gold Coast. Her first foal, a colt by Not A Single Doubt, made A$425,000. Fascination Street was a Listed Race winner along with Group & Listed placings. She was sold at the conclusion of her career for a significant sum off the back of the $34,000 I paid for her at the Karaka Select (now Book Two) Sale.
Similarly, when Jennifer Eccles (Gr.2 winner & Gr.1-placed to date) is eventually sold at the end of her racing career, her value will be of course substantial - certainly oceans apart from the $5,000 I paid for her as a Karaka Weanling.
Challenge will be buying two yearlings at the upcoming Karaka Book Two Sale. And, yes, they will both be fillies.
