BY AVALYN HUNTER

If versatility is part of the plan for a breeding program, a breeder need look no further than Ocala Stud to find Colonel Liam. A three-time Grade 1 winner on turf, Colonel Liam offers a dirt-oriented pedigree and physical as well as evidence of both precocious speed and two-turn ability.

With an economic impact of more than $3.2 billion to the state, the importance of the Thoroughbred industry in Marion County, and Florida as a whole, cannot be overstated. Any action that threatens the viability of our racing and breeding operations is deeply troubling and unacceptable. Ocala Breeders’ Sales Company, Inc. (OBS) is proud to be the leading seller of two-year-olds in training in the world and while the sales attract a broad group of domestic and international buyers, it is critical that OBS along with the Florida horsemen and breeders have a stable environment in our own backyard. OBS is a center of commerce for the Thoroughbred marketplace in Florida and often relied upon to generate income to help sustain training and breeding operations. Therefore, we have been steadfast in our opposition to decoupling.

BY BROCK SHERIDAN

Florida-bred veteran Old Homestead tries for his second consecutive stakes victory and third straight win overall Saturday in the $100,000 Colonel Power for 4-year-old olds and older sprinting five-and-half furlongs on the Fair Grounds turf.

Decoupling: What You Need to Know

The Florida Horse Podcast Ep. 52: Saffie Joseph Jr. & Jena Antonucci speak out against decoupling and its impact on racing’s future in Florida.