If you are even faintly familiar with the world of thoroughbred racing, then you have heard the names Mick Malone and Kitchwin Hills Stud. There is no way you can miss these names as they keep coming up in various conversations for a variety of accomplishments that they can boast of. We are no different and that is just one of the many reasons we keep going back to Mick.
A regular feature in this magazine, Mick has built a legacy for himself and his stable that will undeniably stand the test of time. Based out of the magnificent New South Wales in Australia, Kitchwin Farms is sought after by many across the world not just for the quality but also the numbers in which they are able to deliver that. Every year Kitchwin brings in one of the biggest stock in the Gold Coast Yearling sale and every year they bring the pedigree of horses that can put even Pegasus to shame.
We went back to Mick and had a chat about this years sale and his expectations from the lot.
Q: Once again you have one of the largest drafts coming into this sale. Could you tell us a bit more about the horses in your draft and why you think their sale prices are going to be knocked out of the ball-park?
A: We’ve got a really nice draft of horses for all budgets, but obviously have those few stand out horses to headline the draft including a half brother to YES YES YES by Sebring. Another high profiled colt is the half brother to Dubious by Foxwedge, as well as I Am Invincible colt out of Group 1 Coolmore Stakes winner Steps in Time.
This is probably one of the strongest Magic’s draft we have ever taken to the sale, now we just need to hope they can all come through the preparation well and be looking their best on the Coast come the new year.
Q: How long have you been coming to this sale and what was the most expensive horse you have ever sold at this sale?
A: We’ve been coming to Magic Millions for nearly 20 years, and our highest priced lot came last year selling a Savabeel filly from Bayrock selling for $825,000.
Q: This year, you've had quite a few successes from the horses you've bred and sold. Could you please tell us about those horses whom you would consider your top graduates?
A: Obviously winning the Everest with YES YES YES was a massive highlight for the farm, but Pierata has also been a long and successful servant of the farm winning the Redzel just last month. The Melbourne Cup winner in Vow & Declare is any Australian in racings dream, to be involved in such a horse! Looking forward we have a Fastnet Rock colt from Wiener called Rathlin we sold last year at Magic Millions shaping up for the 2yo race this year.
Q: Please tell us a bit about your mare lines and the way you plan your matings? Do you ever consider breeding for specific races?
A: We’re are very lucky with the mare lines we get to deal with on a daily basis here on the farm, with a host of Group 1 winning mares. From a mating’s perspective, we are always looking to tap into what’s important with Australian racing, early precocious 2yo speed! We are continually looking to breed the next MM 2yo or Golden Slipper win with so much focus in Australia now surrounded by this early 2yo and 3yo races! I try not to stray too far from the formula and mate towards what Australian buyers are looking for!
Q: Vow And Declare was obviously a wonderful anomaly bred at Kitchwin Hills because Australian bred horses are known for their speed. Now that you have a magic formula, do you think you will consider breeding more top quality stayers?
A: He was a fantastic result and a masterstroke by Sheamus Mills who did the mating! But we are a commercial farm, our aim is to sell high priced yearlings that win all the majors, and that means mating mares to what suits best. Obviously, 2yo speed is important, but some mares you can target towards those staying lines and you never know another Melbourne Cup winner.