Kathy Berkey Talks Bloodstock
Tucson, AZ — On Tuesday October 9, bloodstock agent Kathy Berkey spoke to RTIP students about the intricacies of her industry. Ms. Berkey, an RTIP alumnus, previously worked with the California Thoroughbred Breeders Association and has been working in the bloodstock industry for over 25 years. Berkey spoke to students in the ACBS 444 - Development & Management of Racing Animals class, and after class, she spent a few hours speaking to students about buying broodmares at auction.
In the classroom portion of her visit, Ms. Berkey highlighted some of the decisions she makes when it comes to selecting breeding stock. She emphasized the importance of the budgeting, and when choosing mares, the necessity to have a goal in mind whether to race the foals or sell them. When it comes to buying, pedigree and conformation are keys, but it is vital to do due diligence and get as much of the big picture as possible.
After class, Berkey met with the RTIP Bloodstock Committee to discuss the selection of broodmares at the Keeneland November auction. The Program’s Bloodstock Committee is comprised of Director Wendy Davis and 10 current students tasked with selecting 1-2 broodmares for purchase. Ms. Berkey is assisting throughout the process. During the meeting, she offered the committee parameters to help narrow down their choices and identify mares that will fit the Program’s budget.