ENGLISH TEXTS
G . Recently , we ’ ve seen a surge in prices . What ’ s your take on the current market ?
TL : The market is evolving , with investors increasingly seeking top-tier pedigrees . As a result , it ’ s becoming harder for mid-range horses and small breeders to stand out . That said , it ’ s important not to be pessimistic . In flat racing , you need the physique , the sire and the pedigree to command very high prices . On NH , it ’ s a bit different , as physique plays a critical role . If you have the right build and the right sire , that can be enough .
G . The sales and breeding industries have many established players . Is it easy for the younger generation to find their place ?
TL : I believe that when you show passion and work hard , people are generally open . Experienced professionals are often willing to share their knowledge with the younger generation . I ’ ve traveled a lot and each time , I ’ ve had the opportunity to go abroad thanks to professionals who supported me .
G . In this digital age , do you use any tools to assist you in your work ?
TL : I frequently use Arionpedigree , which I find more comprehensive than Weatherbys . Software and apps are great tools , but for me , nothing beats developing your eye and seeing a lot of horses . I like to travel and view them in person ; physique can make all the difference in obstacles .
G . Do you have a mantra or a quote that guides you daily ?
TL : It ’ s not a quote , more of a philosophy . When I arrived in Ireland , some staff members at the stud farm taught me that it ’ s better to talk less and listen more . I find that to be especially true .
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FERNANDOS LAFFON
Galorama : Can you tell us about your background and how the family transition took place ?
Fernando Laffon : I consider myself extremely fortunate to have been born into a family deeply rooted in and passionate about horse racing for over five generations . I began visiting stables during my school vacations and later prepared yearlings in France , Ireland and the USA . I joined the Irish National Stud , which allowed me to discover aspects of breeding that were new to me , and then continued my journey in the United States at Lane ’ s End Farm . I worked alongside David Ingordo , who remains one of my mentors to this day and with whom I ’ ve collaborated for over two years in bloodstock . In parallel , I established my own thoroughbred bloodstock company , Fernando ' s Horses . It has been quite successful , with around fifteen victories and notable performances at Group and Listed levels in Europe and the USA .
G . What do you find most inspiring about your family ’ s accomplishments ?
FL : The unwavering passion for horses and their commitment to passing down their expertise through generations . My grandmother Criquette is a role model for me ! She relentlessly encourages me to give my best and shares invaluable advice . My father , Carlos , is also a source of inspiration with his exceptional rigor . His methodical and demanding approach has taught me the importance of discipline in everything I do .
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G . Is there a character trait you ’ ve inherited from your family ?
FL : Without a doubt , I ’ d say perseverance and honesty , no matter the circumstances . These are solid foundations that help me stay focused on my goals , both in my professional and personal life .
G . What goals have you set for your work ?
FL : My priority is excellence . I aim to preserve and evolve the family legacy while bringing my own vision to it . For Fernando ' s Horses , I focus on high-end horses and continually strive to improve the quality of the horses I represent .
G . The sales and breeding industry is filled with established players . Is it easy for the younger generation to find their place ?
FL : This is particularly true for the most sought-after horses , creating intense competition at sales . This can come with risks , including the possibility of overvaluing some horses . It ’ s crucial to exercise caution by carefully analyzing each lot before making an investment . Opportunities vary greatly between breeding horses for racing and those for sales , and these two categories are increasingly distinct . For instance , when clients seek horses for racing , the market can be more flexible in terms of pricing and certain bloodlines or sires might be undervalued . These represent interesting opportunities for savvy breeders . For those working in this industry , it ’ s also a chance to stand out in a competitive market . The key lies in meticulous selection and rigorous work .
G . Is it easy for the younger generation to carve out a place in such a crowded industry ?
FL : It ’ s true that the industry is very competitive , with many well-established