The Oaks Stud
A Cornerstone of Kiwi Thoroughbred Excellence
Nestled in the heart of the Waikato region, The Oaks Stud stands as a testament to the enduring legacy and continuous evolution of our nation’s thoroughbred breeding industry. With a history spanning several decades, this esteemed establishment has become synonymous with quality bloodstock and racing success both domestically and on the international stage.
A Rich History
The story of The Oaks Stud is one of transformation and growth. As recounted by General Manager Rick Williams, the property’s journey to becoming a premier thoroughbred nursery is a fascinating tale of changing hands and visionary leadership.
Originally purchased as a high-performing dairy farm by West Australian businessman Roy Connell in the mid-1980s, the land that would become The Oaks Stud underwent significant development. However, the stock market crash of 1987 led to the property being divided and sold. It was during this period that the foundation for today’s stud was laid.
The Terry Jarvis Era
The modern incarnation of The Oaks Stud began to take shape when businessman Terry Jarvis acquired 200 acres of the original property. It was under Jarvis’s ownership that Rick Williams, a figure who would become instrumental in the stud’s development, joined the team.
Williams, bringing with him a wealth of experience from roles at Waikato Stud and Bloomsbury, began his tenure at The Oaks with modest resources. The stud started with a handful of race mares and a single stallion, ‘Yachtie’. This humble beginning set the stage for the remarkable growth that was to follow.
The Dick Karreman Era
A pivotal moment in The Oaks Stud’s history came when Dick Karreman, who had previously expressed interest in the property, purchased it from Terry Jarvis. This transition marked the beginning of a period of significant expansion and success.
Under Karreman’s ownership and Williams’s management, The Oaks Stud has grown from its original 200 acres to an impressive 500 acres. The stud now breeds from approximately 50 mares, a substantial increase from its early days.
Stallion Success
Over the years, The Oaks Stud has stood several notable stallions, each contributing to the stud’s growing reputation. Names like Entrepreneur, Bachelor Duke, Traditionally, Spartacus, and Keeninsky have graced the stud’s roster, helping to produce quality progeny that have made their mark on racetracks across Australasia.
Racing Triumphs
The Oaks Stud’s success on the racetrack has been nothing short of remarkable. One of the most memorable achievements, as highlighted by Rick Williams, was securing the quinella in the New Zealand Oaks. This feat was made even more impressive by the fact that The Oaks Stud not only bred but also owned both the winner and runner-up.
Another standout moment came in 2019 when the stud achieved a similar feat in the 2000 Guineas, breeding the first two horses across the line and owning the winner. These achievements in classic races underscore the quality of bloodstock produced at The Oaks Stud and the astute management of their racing interests.
Breeding Philosophy
The success of The Oaks Stud can be attributed in large part to its breeding philosophy. The focus has always been on quality over quantity, with particular emphasis on well-bred fillies who have the potential to transition into successful broodmares. This approach has allowed the stud to continually strengthen its broodmare band, ensuring a pipeline of quality thoroughbreds for years to come.
While The Oaks Stud doesn’t currently stand stallions, they maintain shareholdings in leading sires and support promising stallions bred from their mares. This strategy allows them to access top-tier genetics while focusing on their core strengths in breeding and racing.
Looking to the Future
As The Oaks Stud continues to evolve, it remains committed to excellence in thoroughbred breeding and racing. The stud’s success is a testament to the vision of its owners, the expertise of its management team led by Rick Williams, and the dedication of all staff involved in the day-to-day operations.
The achievements of The Oaks Stud serve as an inspiration to the entire racing industry, showcasing what can be accomplished through careful planning, expert knowledge, and a passion for thoroughbred excellence. As we look to the future, there’s no doubt that The Oaks Stud will continue to play a significant role in shaping the landscape of our thoroughbred industry.
In conclusion, The Oaks Stud stands as a shining example of the quality and success that our breeding industry is capable of producing. From its humble beginnings to its current status as a powerhouse in thoroughbred breeding and racing, The Oaks Stud continues to contribute significantly to our nation’s rich racing heritage. As we eagerly anticipate the next generation of champions to emerge from its paddocks, one thing is certain: The Oaks Stud will remain at the forefront of thoroughbred excellence for years to come.