Taproot Bloodstock's recent acquisition of Hip 36, a Taiba colt, has sparked excitement in the horse racing world. This purchase, made at the prestigious Fasig-Tipton July Sale, showcases Taproot's strategic eye for elite prospects. The colt's impressive pedigree, including inbreeding to the renowned Gun Runner family, positions him as a potential star in the making.
What makes Hip 36 particularly intriguing is his physical appearance and mental prowess. Hager describes him as a "big two-turn, dirt-looking horse" with an "easy" and "good mentally" disposition. This combination of physical attributes and mental fortitude is a rare find, and Taproot's decision to secure him early on suggests a forward-thinking approach.
The colt's dam, Dayfa, has a proven track record of producing high-quality foals. All five of her foals have sold for substantial amounts, with some even achieving stakes success. The bloodline's connection to Gun Runner and Saint Liam further cements Hip 36's potential as a top-tier thoroughbred.
Hager's enthusiasm for Taiba is evident, and his success with Gun Runner has likely influenced this decision. The fact that Taiba stood his third season at Spendthrift Farm for a modest fee of $25,000 suggests that his breeding value is highly regarded, despite his relatively low advertised fee.
In addition to Hip 36, Taproot also acquired fillies by Army Mule and Cairo Prince. These purchases demonstrate a well-rounded approach to building a strong bloodline. The Army Mule filly, Hip 40, comes from a deep family with connections to the grade 1 winner Dream Supreme. Meanwhile, Hip 62, a Cairo Prince filly, is the second foal out of a young Upstart mare, further enhancing her potential.
Taproot's recent acquisitions highlight their commitment to acquiring elite prospects and building a strong bloodline. The strategic purchases, combined with the expertise of Phil Hager, position Taproot Bloodstock as a force to be reckoned with in the horse racing industry. The future of these horses is yet to be written, but Taproot's forward-thinking approach and keen eye for talent bode well for their continued success.
