Karon Totman is a relatively young breeder in the KZN Breeders ranks and she tells us a little more about her breeding operation, which she bases with Karin and Warwick Render at Bush Hill Stud.
“High Eagle Stud started at the beginning of the 2018 foaling / breeding season, with a few of the foundation broodmares from the great Scott Bros, who as we know never fail to produce some great horses.
“The 2018 crop was our first which produced two colts and two fillies by Crusade, Capetown Noir and The Apache. “
“In January 2020, High Eagle Stud underwent some restructuring and reshuffling. It was at this point that I decided to start again from scratch with a handful of select maiden mares and I moved High Eagle Stud’s home base to the well-renowned Bush Hill Stud. Warwick and Karin have been nothing short of amazing and I am so grateful for their ongoing assistance, advise and support.”
Karon goes on to say that she was hoping 2020 would launch High Eagle’s first year for sales, however with COVID striking in March 2020 ‘turned everything – including sales – upside-down!’
From the 2018 crop, NAUTICAL STORM opened the winners account in Zimbabwe, winning just her second start for trainer Thomas Mason.
Karon explains that Nautical Storm was High Eagle Stud’s first foal, born and bred by Scott Bros, raised by High Eagle Stud. “She didn’t show much on her debut run and after a long rest, I wasn’t sure what to expect from her second run. I think my neighbours heard me screaming her home!” says with a laugh.
“In the moment, I was so focused on watching only her that I actually missed half the race and only when I watched a replay a bit later, did I realise what a gutsy win it actually was! Being raised by High Eagle Stud was more than enough for me and I couldn’t be prouder of her.”
“It was a very emotional moment so I think it’s best for me to watch my babies race from home, behind closed doors! I can only hope that I get the honour & privilege of that indescribable feeling again in the future.”
Karon talks about her Lot on offer at the November 2YO Sale, taking place at the TBA Complex this week. “We are very excited to present SIRENS OF SILENCE (colt by Crusade) on offer as Lot 15 from Bush Hill Stud as Agent.
The Crusade colt is out of In Moderation by Mogok, from the family of African Grey and Gr1 winner Scarena.
“Next year will be our first proper year for sales, which I am looking forward to but albeit a bit nervous! Our 2020 crop includes three colts – two by New Predator and one by Mambo In Seattle, and a filly by Willow Magic.”
High Eagle Stud’s mares for the 2021 season have visited the likes of New Predator, Last Winter, Willow Magic, Act Of War and the grey son of Deep Impact, Danon Platina.
Karon ends off by saying, “We do have our own racing colours and one day it would be fantastic to race one or two of my own babies, however for now I need to keep my head out the clouds and my feet on the ground!”
We wish Karon all the best for her future and luck at the sales!