We believe that the X-chromosomes present within a breeding pair (1 for the male & 2 for the female), each represent a genetic profile, & that one part of that profile is the heart & cardiovascular system. It is believed by geneticists that 90% of genetic material is passed on the X chromosome, while 10% is passed on the Y chromosome by the stallion if the foal is a colt. We determine heart size based on the ECG's performed by Dr. Fregin, but both he & Marianna have noticed that parts of the ECG patterns are very similar if the genetic profiles are the same; Marianna has also noticed markers such as ear shape, tail placement, & chest protrusions which are consistent in some profiles, & she has been successful in determining which profile is expressed, in many cases, without performing an ECG (confirmation comes when the ECG is done). The result of these techniques is that we have been hugely successful at purchasing large-hearted, desirable profiles, & breeding these desirable characteristics into our foals.
Our overall initiative is continuing, but we feel to better those efforts, a reorganization is needed. We currently have about 200 horses of various ages (87 broodmares, 31 2yr olds & 46 yearlings), & ranch operations in both Texas & Louisiana. We are continuing the pursuit of competitive racing, and must downsize in order to keep a manageable budget. We have decided to sell the Texas properties, reduce to about 15 broodmares & a racing stable of about 30. After our restructuring, our remaining horses will be kept at our Louisiana properties. Both the Texas property & a list of the partial dispersal can be viewed at the links on the bottom of the home page.